The Mercedes EQE joins the range of electric SUVs

Mercedes has launched the SUV version of its all-electric EQE sedan. With powertrains and technology taken from the sedan, the EQE SUV is also available in a powerful AMG variant, while offering more space in a slightly more compact package.

It’s fair to wonder why Mercedes-Benz released an SUV version of what is already an accomplished electric sedan, but the simple fact is that premium SUVs outsell regular cars. As such, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV fills the mid-size, premium SUV segment of the market, offering all the technology and most of the sedan’s performance, but in a package that will appeal more to European and American consumers.

Drive and performance

Mercedes offers the EQE with two power levels and three different powertrains in regular form, or alternatively buyers can opt for the high-powered, tuned AMG variant. At the lower end of the spectrum are the EQE 350+ and EQE 350 4MATIC cars. They share the same total output of 288 hp, but the 350+ is rear-wheel drive and produces 417 lb-ft of torque, while the 4MATIC gets the Merc’s four-wheel drive setup and 564 lb-ft.

At the top end of the non-AMG cars is the EQE 500 4MATIC, which has 402 hp. and 633lb-ft thanks to its dual drivetrain, but step up to the AMG 43 and 53 4MATIC and output jumps to 687bhp. (for a limited time in ’53), with the same 633lb-ft. In top form, the EQE SUV accelerates to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph.

In all cases, the battery has a usable capacity of 90.6 kWh, allowing the least powerful model to travel up to 366 miles on a charge, dropping to 346 miles for the 350+, 340 for the 500 and 303 for the AMG. Charging can be done at a DC maximum of 170kW or via the onboard charger, which is 11kW AC as standard or 22kW as an option.

Exterior design

At 4,863 mm long and 1,940 mm wide, the EQE SUV is about 80 mm shorter than the sedan. This is still a relatively large SUV and is similar in size to the Range Rover Velar.

Merc believes the EQE combines functionality with sportiness and purpose and marks a “turning point” in its class. Overhangs are short at both the front and rear, while the new muted grille and front-end lights are retained on the car. The rear has a distinctly prominent C-pillar and a sloping rear end unlike other Mercedes SUVs, making it appear sportier in profile. Various aero features have been carried over from other models in the Mercedes electric range, meaning a minimum drag coefficient of Cd 0.25 has been achieved.

Underneath, the EQE has four-link suspension at the front and multi-link suspension at the rear, with AIRMATIC air suspension and ADS+ dampers available as options. Merc reckons the EQE is nimble for its size, something that can be aided by setting the rear axle steering.

Interior design and tech

The latest MBUX operating system and customizable software come standard, while those with deeper pockets can spec an MBUX hyperscreen. This seamlessly merges three displays into one for a total screen width of 141 centimeters. Front-seat passengers have an optional 12.3-inch OLED display with its own user interface that automatically dims if the driver looks at it – eliminating potential distractions. Over-the-air updates will continually build and expand what is available to owners.

To help passengers feel better while in the car, the Energizing Air Control and Energizing Comfort functions work with air filtration and interior comfort features – such as lighting and audio – to enhance the driving experience. the passengers.

An extensive range of driver assistance systems includes Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping, Parking Package with Reversing Camera and Speed ​​Limit Assist. Additional options are available through the Assistance and Driver Assistance Plus packages.

Price and availability

There’s no official word on a price or when it’s available, but a mid-2023 showroom arrival with a price tag of at least £90,000 looks likely.