Mercedes-AMG hasn't entirely given up on hot wagons yet, as our spy photographers have managed to capture new camouflaged shots of the upcoming E53e Wagon for the first time. That second 'e' is important, as it signifies yet another AMG product that will be electrified, following in the footsteps of the latest C63 plug-in hybrid sedan that produces an astonishing 671 horsepower combined.
This muscular wagon could also be called the AMG E53 Wagon E Performance, but whatever it's called, it's sure to be a terrific blend of a practical wagon body with excellent performance. With the new E63 expected to adopt a six-cylinder hybrid powertrain, the E53 is could resort to the C63's four-pot, but perhaps in a different state of tune.
The current Mercedes-AMG E53 sedan sold in the USA produces 429 hp, 40 hp less than the previous V8-powered C63. If this new E53 Wagon does get the same four-pot as the new C63, it may be downtuned to make in the region of 550-600 horses. That would be a marked improvement over the previous generation while also leaving a large enough gap between it and the next E63.
Looking at the spy shots, we can see obvious performance touches like 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires wrapped around black multi-spoke wheels. Along with the Panamericana grille expected on this model, which diverges from the design on the recently spied, regular version of the E-Class, there seem to be larger front air intakes.
Red brake calipers, a lowered suspension, and quad-exit tailpipes are all evidence that this is no ordinary E-Class Wagon. Most other design details are concealed, but a neat touch is the Mercedes star graphic that has been incorporated into the taillight clusters.
Currently, Mercedes only sells the E450 4Matic All-Terrain Wagon in the USA. Its 35 cubic feet of cargo space is far more generous than what's offered in the E-Class sedan, but its raised suspension and rugged touches won't be to everyone's tastes. On the other end of the spectrum, the E63 has always been the full-fat version of the E, but not everyone needs supercar-decimating performance. The next E53 Wagon will neatly fill this gap, even if the idea of a four-cylinder engine in such a large vehicle is something many Mercedes-AMG fans will struggle to wrap their heads around.
The debut of the new E53 Wagon is expected later this year, possibly before the E63 arrives.