The eagerly anticipated release of the EQE SUV this spring will offer customers three distinct versions to choose from, each powered by a formidable 90.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. Among these options is the EQE 350+, featuring a single motor located at the rear axle, generating an impressive 288 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque. With this powertrain, the EQE 350+ can smoothly accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a relaxed 6.3 seconds, despite its substantial weight of 5,300 pounds.
For those seeking even greater performance, the EQE 350 4Matic variant boasts an additional electric motor at the front axle, resulting in a total output of 288 hp and 564 lb-ft of torque. However, it’s worth noting that the front drive unit comes with a weight penalty of 335 pounds, causing the EQE 350 4Matic to be only a fraction of a second faster than the EQE 350+ in terms of 0 to 60 mph acceleration.
Interestingly, while the EQE Sedan exclusively offers all-wheel drive, the EQE SUV provides customers with the option to choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, with the latter being available at no additional cost. However, opting for all-wheel drive does come with a trade-off in terms of range. Mercedes-Benz has stated that the rear-wheel-drive EQE 350+ can travel 279 miles on a full charge, whereas the EQE 350 4Matic has a reduced range of 253 miles.
Once inside the EQE SUV, drivers and passengers alike will be treated to a luxurious and serene experience. The cabin is exceptionally quiet, and the plush seats, available in real leather or MB-Tex synthetic upholstery, provide ample support.
For those who crave more power, Mercedes also offers the EQE 500 SUV, which comes standard with all-wheel drive. The EQE 500 features a combined output of 402 hp and 633 lb-ft of torque from its tuned electric motors, allowing for a quicker 0 to 60 mph time of 4.7 seconds compared to the EQE 350 4Matic.
In terms of technology, the EQE SUV does not disappoint. Buyers can choose to equip their vehicle with Mercedes’ Hyperscreen infotainment system, which offers an expansive 12.8-inch central display and a reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The menu structure is intuitive, and the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, some may prefer the standard dual-display setup, which still offers a wealth of features and a beautiful aesthetic, especially when combined with the available open-pore wood trim.
When it comes to driving the EQE 350+ and EQE 350 4Matic, you’ll be hard-pressed to notice any difference from behind the wheel. These SUVs handle similarly, with a somewhat stiff ride – even with the optional air suspension – and light but precise steering. You can choose from three levels of regenerative braking, which you can toggle through using shift paddles. However, there’s a catch: the EQE SUV shares the same adaptive braking system as other EQE and EQS models, where the regenerative braking force can actually shift the position of the pedal to simulate the pressure you would normally apply with your foot.
In terms of pricing, the EQE 350+ and EQE 350 4Matic are competitively priced at $79,050, including $1,150 for destination, which is well below their main rival, the BMW iX. However, the iX boasts more power, a greater driving range, and a significantly more intriguing interior design – even though the exterior styling may be polarizing. If you’re willing to shell out more, you can upgrade to the EQE 500 for $90,650, which is still more than $10,000 cheaper than the base MSRP of the larger EQS 450+ SUV. The EQE models are available in Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle grades, with the top-of-the-line EQE 500 4Matic priced at $96,600.
Looking ahead, Mercedes has plans to introduce an AMG variant of the EQE SUV later this year, boasting a whopping 677 horsepower, active roll stabilization, and unique air suspension tuning.
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