27-03-2025
BMW 550e Hybrid vs AMG E53 Hybrid: Which one comes out on top?
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It's wild to think how advanced, capable and efficient both of these vehicles are. They both have 3.0-liter, turbocharged I6 engines, backed by powerful electric motors. They are just about the same size, and cater to a similar demographic, too. Both are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) with decent all-electric range. Finally, they are both all wheel drive German sedans. Despite these similarities, they have completely different personas.
The Mercedes-AMG E53 hybrid is totally refreshed for 2025, and it's a bit controversial in one big way–its powertrain. As for suspension, brakes, and even the looks–it sure looks the part, but that powertrain misses the mark. Yes, it's powerful and modern, but something's missing. Simply put: it doesn't feel like an AMG. On the other hand, the BMW 550e manages to fit its brand's image quite well. The BMW's powertrain is not as potent as the AMG's, but it's impressive nonetheless. The same can't be said about the styling. Let's look at both.
Usually, when a Mercedes-Benz dons the esteemed AMG badge, you know you're getting a fire-breathing performance machine, but something is missing here. It's not that the AMG E53 Hybrid is slow, (0 to 60 mph in 3.7-seconds is scorchingly fast, with the Race Start package) but it doesn't behave like a monster. Indeed, its performance is mind boggling–and that includes its fuel economy. This derivative of the E-Class packs a 3.0-liter, turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. That gas engine, combined with the 161-horsepower electric motor, makes 577 horsepower (604 with Race Start) and 553 lb-ft of torque. The whole thing is bolted to a 9-speed automatic transmission, and it's distributed to all four wheels via 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid features a 21.2 kWh battery pack. That allows for an EPA-estimated 42 miles of all-electric driving range. Unlike many other plug-in hybrids, the E53 Hybrid is capable of using a DC fast charger. DC fast charging speeds go up to 60 kW. Speaking of EPA estimates: the E53 Hybrid is rated at an estimated 59 MPGe and 23 MPG - without using the hybrid function. Prices for the 2025 AMG E53 Hybrid start at $88,000, with my tester coming in at about $111,000 loaded.
I was lucky enough to get early access to the E53, and in many ways, it was epic. A lot of that had to do with its overall presence, as it looks astonishing when equipped with the $2,600, 21-inch forged wheels. Between that, and the subtle tweaks externally (mainly badging), AMG fans were very curious about my ride.
There were two major elements that caught my attention immediately: its stellar performance, and its infuriating UX (interactive user experience). I drove about 10 miles using electricity only, and it was just fine. No surprises, smooth and quiet. Then, I rotated the steering-wheel knob to its sportier modes–and it suddenly became a rocket. The grip and ride were incredible as the speed removed what few hairs I had left on my head. Steering weight is good, but the sedan wanders in its lane on the highway from time to time.
Then there was the UX system, which is not user friendly. The MBUX infotainment system spreads across the dashboard combining three screens under one glass panel. Honestly, I dislike the appearance of that glass component–and would prefer a cleaner look. What truly irked me was the way MBZ/AMG has you use sliders and panels when your drive; as opposed to switches, buttons and dials. It forced me, on several occasions, to look away from the road to make sure I was touching the right surface.
Seating was extremely comfortable up front. The AMG seating surfaces were both supportive and luxurious–even providing a massage feature. Back seat comfort is good, as long as the front passengers are not too tall. Otherwise, it's a tight fit back there. Speaking of small-ish, the trunk holds 13.1 cubic feet of cargo, which is on the smaller side for this class.
Like the Mercedes-Benz/AMG sedan, the BMW 550e has an electric motor paired with a gas engine. That electric motor makes 197 horsepower. Combined, the plug-in hybrid 550e makes 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Like the AMG, the BMW has a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder, but this one is bolted to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power is fed to all four wheels via the 550e's standard xDrive all-wheel drive system. BMW says the 550e hybrid can move from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.1 seconds, which is about .04 seconds slower than the AMG... which isn't much.
I believe that many BMW fans would be upset that I chose the 550e as opposed to an M5. The reason is simple, the 550e is the closest hybrid to compare to the AMG E53 Hybrid. That's especially true if you include the M Sport package which includes upgrades like rear-wheel steering and adaptive damping. It's surprisingly close to the AMG's performance with that upgrade. Unlike the AMG, I am not a huge fan of the 550e's styling, but I'm a big fan of the rest of the car. Equipped with a 19.4 kWh battery, the all-electric range of the 550e is estimated at about 40 miles. The BMW 550e Hybrid does not have fast charging capabilities, but it can use level II charging. Prices start at $73,400, but that can easily rise to about $84,000 with the right accessories. Official EPA numbers for the 550e sit at 67 MPGe, and are estimated to be 33 MPG unassisted.
As I stated before, it's mostly about numbers and the AMG E53 sedan has the BMW beat; however, the BMW shines in many other ways–especially if you pony up for the Dynamic Handling package ($2,200) and the M Sport Professional package ($1,050). With the Handling package, you get active suspension and four wheel steering. The M Sport Professional package gives you the M brake package, mixed with garnish like spoiler, grill and badge updates–among other touches. The main point is: if you go this far, the handling gap between the BMW 550e and AMG E53 Hybrid is mitigated.
The BMW 550e X-Drive is the second fastest 5-Series, just behind the M5. That is to say: it's wicked quick, and still manages to be remarkably efficient. Some feel that the steering is a bit artificial in feel, and a bit light for a performance car. Others think its a good tradeoff between performance and commuting.
What I want to draw attention to is the overall interior design, which is about the same in nearly every 5-Series. That is to say, it's excellent. The switchgear, UX and ergonomics are much easier to live with than the AMG E53 Hybrid, and are easier to learn as well. Back seat comfort is quite good, and the trunk space is massive by comparison. At 18.4 cu-ft of cargo space, it's on the higher end of the class.
Indeed, the insides and mechanicals of the BMW 550e are extremely competitive, if not superior to the AMG. It's that raw performance that favors the AMG, but there's something else: aesthetics. I just can't get my head around modern BMW design. I guess the profile is acceptable, but the front and rear design lack passion and personality.
Both cars are amazing as they provide ridiculous levels of performance with outstanding economy. You can drive both like EVs during short commutes and not have to worry about gassing up–provided your commute isn't lengthy. Then, when you open the taps, both become absolute beasts. I love that duality. Obviously, the BMW is a great choice for those who want to save some money, as it can be up to $30,000 less when all is said and done. On the other hand, the AMG E53 Hybrid looks like it's worth every penny. If both automakers learned lessons from each other–imagine what amazing vehicles they could build.
