Mercedes just announced the entry of its much-awaited EQS, promising to be a strong contender in the luxury EV segment.
The EQS is Mercedes’ electric take on its flagship model, the opulent S Class. Still, the automaker gave its EQ series a completely new design language to distinguish itself from its petrol-powered counterparts. Poised as a luxury sedan/coupe, the EQS gives off a strong executive cruiser vibe starting from the front fascia, which sports a black plastic grille with hundreds of 3 pointed stars complemented by all-LED headlamps.
The rest of the bodywork features smooth and flowing lines along the sides and a semi-circular roofline ending at the rear. The hatchback-style trunk dominates the back-end with a single bar-end LED tail lamp and the EQS badging to complete the look. Thanks to the minimalist build, Mercedes claims a super-low drag coefficient of 0.21 Cd. The EQS is offered with a two-tone paint scheme and in two separate configurations – 450+ and 580 44MATIC.
Moving on, the Ingolstadt-based carmaker sought out to create the epitome of luxury in a quiet, rapid, and sustainable package. The advanced modular electric vehicle architecture housing the 107.8 kWh battery gives the EQS a range of 487 miles (WLTP tested) on a single charge. The battery pack either powers a single rear-mounted electric motor (329 hp and 419 lb-ft torque) or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration (516 hp and 631 lb-ft of torque) on the 450+ and 580 4MATIC, respectively. Other notable luxury features include an AIRMATIC air suspension and optional rear-wheel steering (up to 10 degrees).
Still, despite the pretty impressive feature list so far, the main point of interest is the cabin. For instance, as soon as you approach the vehicle, the smart doors automatically open up, offering a glimpse into the futuristic realm at your disposal. Again, depending on the configuration, one is treated to a floating 12.8-inch infotainment system or the futuristic 56-inch Hyperscreen, featuring a 12.3-inch digital information cluster, a massive 17.8-inch multimedia display, and another 12.3-inch screen for the front passenger, all under one glass pane.
Both configurations are equipped with the MBUX system with all standard connectivity features, HVAC controls, a virtual assistant, and other essential car features, including driving modes. The EQS is offered in Premium, Executive, and Pinnacle trim levels with standard amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, a Burmester sound system, an adjustable panoramic sunroof, and a 64-color ambient lighting system. The Executive variant receives even more tech features such as seats with a massaging function, a HUD, a HEPA air filter, and four-zone climate control with seat-specific commands. The Pinnacle has rear reclining seats with massaging function, wireless charging in the center armrest, and extra USB-C charging ports. The full ADAS suite is standard as well with lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, emergency braking assists, parking assists, just to name a few.
Last but not least – the pricing! The EQS will start at $102,310 for the 450+ Premium and up to $108,510 for the Pinnacle. The 580 4MATIC will set you back $119,110 for the Premium, $122,310 for the Executive, and $125,310 for the Pinnacle.
Expect the new models to arrive at showrooms across the country this fall!
Gallery: 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS
