Mercedes-Benz continues to push forward with its EV offensive, launching an all-electric counterpart of the GLE-Class — the EQE SUV.
Still, the EQE SUV uses an upgraded platform with a slightly longer wheelbase of 119.3 inches (3,030 mm) than the GLE-Class. Mercedes says its newest EV shares the architecture with the EQE sedan and is positioned as a more practical version. But the company also says it focused on agility — the EQE SUV has a slightly shorter wheelbase than its sedan counterpart, which should aid handling.
Overall, the wheels are nicely stretched apart, allowing for very short overhangs. As a result, the EQE SUV looks more cohesive than the gas model, accompanied by a more graceful styling that adds to the luxurious appearance. It’s a svelte-looking SUV with enough flair to differentiate from the GLE-Class without losing the Mercedes-Benz identity.
The EQE SUV will be available in four variations — EQE 350+, 350 4Matic, 500, and Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV. The first three models will constitute the majority of the sales, but it’s the last one that people will be talking about.
Interestingly, all models will come with a sizeable 90.6-kWh battery, which provides the highest 369-mile (590 km) WLTP range on the entry-level EQE 350+. The cheapest model has one motor on the rear axle, producing 288 hp and 417 lb-ft (565 Nm) of torque. Go for the 4Matic version, and you’ll get a boosted torque of 564 lb-ft (765 Nm) and a slightly lower range of up to 349 miles on the WLTP cycle.
Still, the pick of the range seems to be the EQE 500 4Matic; it packs two motors on each axle for all-wheel-drive action, producing 396 hp and a massive 633 lb-ft (858 Nm) of torque. The range penalty is minimal on this model, which can go up to 342 miles (547 km) on a charge.
However, the Mercedes-AMG is the way to go if you are looking for raw power and performance. The variant uses specific motors and inverters to boost the power output to 617 hp and 701 lb-ft (950 Nm) of torque.
Opt for the AMG Performance Package, and then you’ll have 687 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque at your disposal — not bad for a family SUV! With the Performance Pack, the AMG EQE SUV takes only 3.4 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) and has its top speed limited at 149 mph (240 km/h).
Like all other Mercedes-EQ products, the EQE SUV charges at a relatively pedestrian 170 kW, providing a 10-80% charge in 32 minutes. That figure doesn’t compare well to Merc’s direct rivals — the BMW iX can charge at 195 kW, and the Tesla Model X can top up at 250 kW. Meanwhile, Porsche, Hyundai, and Kia already offer 300+ kW charging on their EVs. On a home charger, the EQE SUV will take more than 9 hours to get fully charged with the provided charger.
The interior of the EQE SUV is almost a carbon copy of other EQ models, with a Hyperscreen that stretches across the dashboard. Hence, it looks very sci-fi, particularly with Merc’s insistence on 3D visuals, but it’s not very useful while driving. Besides, the glass that covers the screens is a fingerprint magnet, making the otherwise pristine cabin look messy after a few hours of use. Fortunately, the designers used quality materials elsewhere, and the multi-color ambient lighting is a nice touch.
Mercedes-Benz also spent a great deal boasting about the cabin space. Thanks to the relatively long wheelbase, and hefty exterior dimensions (191.5-inch long, 76.4-inch wide, 66.4-inch high), the EQE SUV has enough space to accommodate five adults, with ample knee room and headroom. Moreover, the trunk measures 18.4 cu-ft (520 liters), which is okay by class standards. The EQE SUV doesn’t offer a third seating row.
Mercedes-Benz will produce the EQE SUV at the Alabama plant for the North American market — the same place as the larger EQS SUV. Hence, it should be eligible for the EV tax credit, though it’s currently unknown whether Mercedes will be able to offer a sub $80,000 model, which is the current price cap.
Gallery: Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
