High-quality materials are found throughout — from the dashboard, to the doors, to the redesigned steering wheel, and even the pedals. Attractive wood touches pop out sharply, and you get interior multicolor lighting for ambience.

The Warmth and Comfort package will get you quick-heating front seats, heated steering wheel, and even heated armrests.

The only knock I have is that the back seat is a bit tight in terms of leg room.

HOW’S THE RIDE?
To get right to the point, people who love to drive will absolutely be thrilled by the experience of driving the E53.

The raw driving experience offered is the reason why people buy vehicles with the AMG label. AMGs are among the best lineup in the business for driving enthusiasts, in my mind matched only by its competition at Audi.

The E53 features a 3.0-liter turbo inline-6 engine with EQ boost, paired with an AMG 9-speed transmission. Numbers are 429 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft. of torque. All E53 vehicles come with All-Wheel Drive.

The driver’s seat features cushions that support your sides as you are making turns. This feels odd at first, but you quickly get used to it.

To describe the E53 as a thrill ride is no exaggeration, with its blazing speed (0 to 60 in 4 seconds). There is tremendous responsiveness to driver input, and this ride without a doubt lives up the AMG label and the lofty expectations that name brings.

A major contributor to the ride quality in the E53 is the AMG Sport Suspension. You can also boost cabin insulation with the optional Acoustic Comfort Package.
 
TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

The E53’s large 12.3-inch center infotainment screen is among the best-looking you’ll find in a vehicle. But the overall functionality loses some points because the touchpad-style controller was not always responsive in my testing.

There are some unique control options on the steering wheel that take time to get comfortable with, but they help you avoid the touchpad, which is a good thing. Voice commands also worked well for me, especially to control the navigation system.

The E53 offers dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connection for streaming music and phone calls through the car, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, 6 free months of satellite radio, an excellent surround sound system and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

For safety, there is an advanced air bag protection system, alarm system, antilock brakes, brake assist system, electronic stability program, rearview camera, LED lighting, rear child safety door locks, and more.

Safety options include the Parking Assistance Package, which features Active Parking Assist and a Surround View System.

You can also opt for the Driver Assistance Package, which features Active Distance Assist, Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, and more. (Note: This package is definitely worth adding).

MPG
The official fuel mileage numbers on the E53 are 21 city/28 highway/24 combined. These numbers were fairly accurate, and impressive, but let’s be honest: If you’re buying a driving machine like this, fuel economy probably isn’t atop your list of concerns.

If you are inclined to factor this in, be happy to know that these numbers are boosted by the E53’s fuel-efficient mild hybrid powertrain setup.
  
PRICE, BOTTOM LINE
Let’s just say that the Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 sedan isn’t something you’re going to pick up with change collected in the couch.

My test vehicle was priced at $97,590, and the base price starts about $73K. (And if you want to spend even more money, the even pricier AMG E63 model starts off at $107K and offers 603 hp and 627 lb.-ft. of torque)

If you’ve got $75K to $100K to spare, and are looking for a thrilling ride from your luxury sedan, the Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 is made specifically for you.  

This is of course a very limited audience, based on price alone, but for those in the proper tax bracket the E53 will meet the need for speed and offer a truly comfortable and enjoyable driving experience on all levels.

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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.