Spy shots of 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53: updated sports sedan spotted

Mercedes-Benz is testing a prototype of the redesigned E-Class, which is scheduled to be launched in 2023 as a 2024 model.

The prototypes are for the regular E-Class, but there will also be redesigned versions of the E 53 and E 63 performance variants developed by AMG. In fact, the latest spy shots show a prototype of the new E 53.

The E 53 and E 63 should appear about six months to a year after the regular E-Class.

We know this prototype is for the E 53 because of the performance wheel and tire combination, larger brakes, and four round exhaust tips. The final E 63 should also have four exhaust tips, albeit square.

Under the hood should be a four-cylinder engine. Yes, the E 53 will lose two cylinders in the redesign, and the E 63 will reportedly be downsized from the current model's V-8 to just four cylinders.

Despite the reduced cylinder count, performance should improve in both variants of the E-Class thanks to electrification. The current E 53 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder and a mild hybrid setup that produces 429 hp. Expect the new E 53 to produce closer to 500 hp.

As for the new E 63, a four-cylinder and mild hybrid setup will reportedly be combined with a rear-mounted electric motor. This same setup will also be featured in the redesigned C 63, which is expected to be unveiled later this year and will deliver a maximum output of 643 hp. The current E 63 is powered by a V-8 engine and produces 603 hp.

The new E-Class platform is an updated version of Mercedes' MRA rear-wheel drive architecture, which debuted on the 2021 S-Class and was also used on the 2022 C-Class. The updated platform benefits from weight savings, primarily through the increased use of aluminum over steel. This was made possible by advanced joining techniques, including welding of aluminum and steel.

Stay tuned for updates as development progresses.