The Mercedes-Benz EQS is an exciting addition to the growing family of electric vehicles. As a battery-electric full-size luxury hatchback, it sets a new standard for innovation and style in the EV market. First unveiled at the 2019 International Motor Show Germany as the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS, the EQS has been making waves with its sleek design and cutting-edge features. In 2021, the EQS entered production for the US market, marking Mercedes’ first fully electric vehicle to be offered to American drivers. With its impressive performance and luxurious interior, the EQS is poised to make a big impact in the world of electric vehicles.
Mercedes Benz EQS Overview
The Mercedes-Benz EQS is an exciting addition to the EQ line of electric vehicles, serving as the flagship model for this family. Unveiled as the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS at the 2019 International Motor Show Germany, the EQS entered production in 2021 for the 2022 model year, marking Mercedes’ first fully electric vehicle in the US market.
At the heart of the EQS is Mercedes’ MEA platform, which is designed specifically for EVs. The vehicle also features water-cooled permanent magnet synchronous motors from Valeo Siemens, which are paired with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver impressive torque to the wheels. The EQS 350 and EQS 450+ models feature a single motor in the rear, while other models have an additional front motor.
Boasting a length of 205.4 inches, the EQS is longer than many full-size sedans, with a curved body that maximizes aerodynamic efficiency. The vehicle also features a range of luxurious and advanced features, such as rear-wheel steering, wireless phone charging, over-the-air updates, and a 360-degree camera system. Optional features include massage seats, an augmented reality head-up display, gesture controls, and an integrated toll payment system.
The EQS also offers a heated windshield option that insulates occupants from heat and noise, as well as a HEPA air filter for improved air quality. All of these features combine to make the Mercedes-Benz EQS a top contender in the luxury EV market, providing drivers with both impressive performance and innovative technology.
EVU Hot Take:
Pros:
- Wonderful technology and features
- Incredibly comfortable
- Competitive range
Cons:
- So-so driving dynamics
- Bland exterior styling
- Infotainment could use some work
The Mercedes EQS boasts one of the most technologically advanced infotainment systems on the market. Its system is powered by eight CPU cores with a total of 24 gigabytes of RAM, providing a smooth and responsive user experience. The EQS also features a traditional dashboard, but for those looking for a more futuristic aesthetic, there is an option for the Hyperscreen. This wall-to-wall panel of glass spans the entire instrument panel, including the infotainment system, giving the interior of the EQS a highly unique and sophisticated look. High-end versions of the EQS also come with two organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens and an LCD instrument cluster that nearly spans the entire length of the dashboard. If you’re looking for a luxury EV with cutting-edge technology, the Mercedes EQS is definitely worth considering.
Mercedes Benz EQS Powertrain
If you’re considering the Mercedes-Benz EQS, it’s important to understand the different models available in the US market. The three available models include the following:
- EQS 450+
- EQS 580
- AMG EQS
While these models may appear similar, their primary differences lie in the battery and motor. As you might expect, higher performance models may also include other enhancements to support their increased capabilities. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right EQS model to meet your needs and driving preferences.
EQS 450+
The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ is the RWD model in the EQS line-up, equipped with a powerful battery and motor that provide a smooth and responsive driving experience. The battery has a maximum capacity of 120 kWh and a usable capacity of 107.8 kWh. The motor generates 329 hp and 417 lb⋅ft of torque, delivering impressive acceleration and speed. The maximum range of the EQS 450+ is 488 miles according to the WLTP, while the EPA estimates its range at 350 miles. This model has a 0 to 62 mph time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, making it a capable and efficient electric vehicle for everyday use.
EQS 580
The EQS 500 4MATIC is an all-wheel drive (AWD) model that packs a powerful punch with its dual 120 kWh batteries and impressive motor. The motor generates an impressive 516 hp and 631 lb⋅ft of torque, offering quick acceleration and a smooth ride. According to the WLTP, the EQS 580 has a maximum range of 420 miles, while the EPA estimates its range at 340 miles. The EQS 580 also has a top speed of 130 mph and can go from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.1 seconds, making it a great option for those seeking a luxurious electric vehicle with excellent performance.
AMG EQS
The AWD AMG EQS 4MATIC+ is the highest performance model in the EQS line, with two batteries, each having a maximum capacity of 120 kWh and a usable capacity of 107.8 kWh. It offers a range of options, including an upgraded cooling system, to support its greater power output.
The AMG EQS 4MATIC+ generates between 649 to 751 hp, depending on its configuration, while its torque is 700 lb⋅ft across all configurations. This high-performance model has a maximum range of 364 miles according to the WLTP, with the EPA estimating a range of 277 miles. The AMG EQS 4MATIC+ can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 to 3.8 seconds, depending on its configuration, and its top speed is 138 mph.
Which One to Buy?
For most buyers, the EQS 450+ strikes the perfect balance between price and performance. This model offers substantial power and comes at a lower price point than the AWD versions of the EQS. Although it has less power than dual-motor models, typical drivers are unlikely to notice the difference.
The EQS 450+ comes in three trims: Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle. Each trim level costs only about $3k more than the one below it, which is a negligible difference given the model’s six-figure price tag.
Overall, the EQS 450+ is an excellent option for those seeking a luxury electric vehicle that offers impressive performance without breaking the bank.
Mercedes Benz EQS Premium
The MSRP of the Premium trim level starts at $102,310. Notable standard features include a Bermester surround sound system with EV Sound, HD radio, Sirius XM, online music streaming and Bluetooth audio streaming. It also has MB Navigation with voice control that uses Natural Language Understanding (NLU), along with MBUX augmented video for navigation. Additional features of this trim level include dual-zone automatic climate control with pre-entry control, ventilated front seats, panoramic roof, 64-color ambient lighting and advanced driver assistance.
Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash
Mercedes Benz EQS Exclusive
The Premium trim level of the EQS 450+ is packed with luxurious features and advanced technology. It starts at an MSRP of $102,310 and includes a high-end Bermester surround sound system with EV Sound, HD radio, Sirius XM and Bluetooth audio streaming. The MB Navigation with voice control uses Natural Language Understanding (NLU) and is complemented by MBUX augmented video for navigation. The Premium trim level also includes dual-zone automatic climate control with pre-entry control, ventilated front seats, panoramic roof, 64-color ambient lighting and advanced driver assistance. These features make the Premium trim level a great choice for those who want a luxurious driving experience without breaking the bank.
Mercedes Benz EQS Pinnacle
The EQS Pinnacle trim is the ultimate in luxury and comfort. With an MSRP starting at $108,510, this trim adds numerous upgrades to the rear seats and device charging capabilities. The rear seats have power adjustments, heating, ventilation and a comfort-type armrest in the center. Additionally, the Pinnacle trim includes wireless charging for both the front and rear seats, as well as NFC pairing for the front seats. This feature allows for two wireless devices to communicate with each other over a distance of 1.5 inches or less. Most buyers will find the added convenience of these upgrades for rear passengers to be well worth the relatively small cost.
Mercedes Benz EQS Charging
The EQS boasts impressive charging speeds that make recharging a breeze. When using a fast DC charger, the batteries can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in just 35 minutes at an average power of 163 kW. In fact, it can even peak above 200 kW for an even faster charging experience. If you’re using a 240-volt Level 2 charger, you can expect to fully charge the batteries in about 11 hours and 15 minutes from 10 to 100 percent. These speedy charging times make the EQS a convenient and practical choice for those in the market for an electric vehicle.
Mercedes Benz EQS Fuel Economy
The Mercedes-Benz EQS is not only a luxurious electric vehicle, but also one of the most energy efficient models on the market. The EPA has assigned a Miles Per Gallon equivalent (MPGe) value of 33.7 kWh for the energy content of a gallon of fuel, allowing for easy comparison between EVs and fueled vehicles. The EQS, with its impressively low drag coefficient of 0.20, has a high energy efficiency.
The EQS 450+ is the most efficient model with an EPA rating of 97 MPGe for both highway and city driving, making it a great option for those looking for an electric vehicle with long range and energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the EQS 580 has a combined rating of 95 MPGe, with a city rating of 92 MPGe and a highway rating of 99 MPGe. This means that the EQS is not only luxurious and technologically advanced, but also a smart choice for those looking for an energy-efficient vehicle.
Mercedes Benz EQS Handling
The Mercedes-Benz EQS provides an exceptionally comfortable and quiet driving experience with its adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering system. The air suspension allows drivers to adjust the ride height to suit different driving conditions, while the rear-axle steering system turns the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees as a standard feature, with the option to turn them up to 10 degrees. These features not only make it easier to navigate tight spaces but also enhance the car’s stability at high speeds. Overall, the EQS offers a serene driving experience that is unmatched by many other vehicles on the market.
Mercedes Benz EQS Braking
The EQS features a highly efficient regenerative braking system that captures energy during deceleration, allowing it to recharge the battery and extend the vehicle’s range. The system also reduces the need to use the brake pedal in everyday driving conditions. However, some drivers may need to adjust to the different feel of regenerative brakes compared to traditional friction brakes. Overall, this advanced technology is a major selling point for the EQS, contributing to its impressive energy efficiency and eco-friendliness.
Mercedes Benz EQS Safety and Automation
The EQS comes packed with advanced safety and automation features that make it a safe and secure vehicle to drive. These features include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Adaptive headlights
- Automated emergency braking
- Automated lane changing
- Automatic parking assistance
- Avoidance assistance
- Blind spot monitoring
- Cross-traffic alert
- Lane centering
- Rear seat exit warning
- Traffic-sign recognition
The EQS has a number of optional features that enhance its autonomous driving capabilities, including Drive Pilot, a Level 3 autonomous driving technology that allows the car to be driven completely autonomously in heavy traffic at speeds up to 37 mph on supported highways. Drive Pilot uses a combination of cameras, microphones, LiDAR and various sensors to provide enhanced situational awareness. While Drive Pilot is still undergoing testing in the US and other countries, it promises to be a revolutionary addition to the EQS’s already impressive feature set. Additionally, the EQS is the first vehicle to support Intelligent Park Pilot, a level 4 automated valet parking system that makes parking your vehicle a breeze.
Mercedes Benz EQS Warranty Review
If you’re considering purchasing the Mercedes EQS, you can rest easy knowing that it comes with a comprehensive warranty package. This package is similar to what you would find from other German automakers, including a limited warranty for the first four years or 50,000 miles. The powertrain also has its own warranty, which covers the same duration and mileage as the limited warranty. And, the EQS’s electrical components have their own coverage, which lasts for an impressive 10 years or 155,000 miles. With this warranty in place, you can enjoy your new vehicle with added peace of mind.
Sources
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2021/05/20210513-eqs.html
https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/2022-mercedes-benz-eqs-ev-most-aerodynamic-car/
https://www.techradar.com/news/mercedes-eqs
https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/eqs
https://www.mbusa.com/en/vehicles/class/eqs/sedan
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