Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off its redesigned 2024 E-Class in April, but is still out testing a fiery version from AMG.

The latest spy shots and video show a prototype for the new mid-size AMG E 53. The new E-Class starts sales late this year, and the AMG 53 version should follow in early 2024.

Both a sedan and wagon are planned, though only the former is expected in the U.S. Strangely, prototypes for a new AMG E 63 haven't been spotted, perhaps indicating the nameplate could be dropped as AMG focuses on a future electric performance sedan due around 2025.

The performance wheel and tire combo, as well as the large brakes and four round exhaust tips give this prototype away as the E 53. Should an E 63 be launched, it will also have four exhaust tips, albeit with a square shape.

What still isn't clear is the powertrain AMG plans for the E 53. Rumors point to both the E 53 and any E 63 running 4-cylinder engines in combination with powerful plug-in hybrid systems, similar to what's found in AMG's C 63 S E Performance.

Despite the lower cylinder count, performance should be up thanks to that electrification component. The current E 53 features a 3.0-liter turbo-6 and mild-hybrid setup good for 429 hp. The new E 53 may generate something closer to 500 hp.

Previous reports have indicated that a new E 63 is indeed coming, with a 4-cylinder and mild-hybrid setup working in combination with a rear-mounted electric motor. The same setup features in the C 63 S E Performance, where it delivers a combined 671 hp. The current E 63 is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 delivering a maximum 603 hp.

The platform of the new E-Class is the updated version of Mercedes' MRA rear-wheel-drive architecture featured in the latest S-Class and C-Class. The updated platform benefits from weight savings, primarily through increased use of aluminum over steel, though the addition of any plug-in hybrid technology will likely offset at any weight savings. Stay tuned.