The new Mercedes E Class AMG E 53 4Matic is a ridiculously long name for a car coined by too clever for their own good, marketing people that unintentionally disgusies what is a very interesting car. Most people will only say “wow that’s really fast” and for the most part they are correct. However, the interest isn’t just about the on-tap 435bhp, 520 Nm power, or the 4-wheel drive or the electronically limited 155mph top speed courtesy of a 9-speed slush-o-matic. It is more so to do with the return of the straight-six petrol engine, an engine that was abandoned in favor of the V6 around 20 years ago. A straight-six offers a smoother delivery of power, but crucially it’s cheaper to make than a V-powered engine. So on basic economics alone, a Mercedes straight-six engine is a strategic manufacturing cutback to save money. However, Mercedes have given the new straight-six a very modern twist. A lot of thought and engineering effort has gone into to delivering an engine that is partly electrified, part hybrid, a mild hybrid of sorts, perhaps somewhere in between. The new straight-six powering the AMG E 53 4Matic features a conventional exhaust turbo, in addition, to an electric turbo both of which are supplemented by a separate electric compressor to effectively iron out any turbo lag. In effect, it’s a triple turbo-powered engine. The engine also features a 48-volt power supply and a 1KW lithium-ion battery to power the next generation of tech features, such as the electric compressor and all manner of auxiliary functions such as stop/start, regenerative braking safety assists, even the heated seats. Most people won’t realise what is going on underneath the bonnet for the AMG E 53 4Matic appeals to the cave man instinct with its more recognisable features such as standard fit 19-inch alloys, Air Body Control air suspension; AMG Dynamic Select. And of course, it receives the AMG style body kit. It also has a Nappa leather interior, a fully digital cockpit and plenty of toys, and plenty of optional extras that make no financial sense when all things considered. But if you are prepared to spend £61k on the saloon or £63k on the estate then the £2595 optional Premium Plus equipment line includes the Burmester surround sound system; Keyless-Go Comfort package all of which might seem like a bargain to the few who will buy this car.