With 300 miles of range, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is a formidable battery-electric, but it gets even better with a list of improvements for the 2024 models.

Table of Contents

What is EQ?
Pricing and Warranties
What’s New for 2024?
Powertrain and Performance
Charging Times
Ride and Handling
Human-Machine Interface
Safety Features and Ratings
Oddities and Observations
Why Buy the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

If the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV was a love interest, it might best be explained as “Complicated.” It is beautiful to look at, dreamy to drive, and the interior is a gallery of gorgeous. This big, voluptuous SUV is a definite swipe right to get the details and to winnow the traits you like and those you could not live with — and there are a few.

For those who remember the vault-like Benzes of old, this new Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is a direct descendant. Among its outstanding features is the traffic-calmed cabin created by a team of “aeroacousticians.” They applied a lot of soundproofing and aerodynamic tuning to reduce wind resistance and noise. Mercedes-Benz says that the aero engineering resulted in an extremely low drag coefficient of 0.251. (And that Cd is slipperier than the Toyota Prius.)

The EQE SUV went on sale in spring 2023 as the platform-mate to the EQE executive sedan, which has been on sale since fall 2021. However, the EQE SUV is more compact than the EQE sedan, with a wheelbase (119.3 inches) 3.5 inches shorter than the sedan.

With its 90.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, the EQE 350+ SUV has an official EPA estimated range of 279 miles. When I charged at home, a 100 percent charge went to 320 miles. However, most EV makers recommend charging to 100 percent only for highway-distance driving.

Buckle up for this ride. It is more than mere electric transportation, the Mercedes-Benz EQ brand goes boldly into an alternate existence of augmented reality. The EQ vehicles are an immersive experience enhanced with computer-generated visual elements amid OLED portrait displays, interactive aural soundscapes, and the luxurious stimuli of materials to suit an affluent buyer.

With a smartphone and the Mercedes Me app, the adventure begins.

What is EQ?

EQ stands for “Electric Intelligence,” the new all-electric brand for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. It is an all-in global approach as the carmaker plans to become fully electric by 2030 “wherever market conditions allow.” The ambitious plan includes becoming CO2-neutral by 2039 — while connecting luxury with sustainability.

Production of the EQE SUV began at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Ala., in Dec. 2022. The battery factory in nearby Bibb County supplies the batteries for this model and the EQS SUV. Since 2022, all of Mercedes-Benz’s own passenger car and van plants worldwide have achieved net carbon-neutral production as part of their eco-balance — including the two Mercedes-Benz plants in Alabama.

All vehicles in the Mercedes-EQ brand are on a single platform — EVA2 — developed specifically for electric drivetrains. The model line is extensive, with several vehicles targeted for European production, such as the small EQA crossover, EQB compact SUV (also available in the US), an EQV minivan, and a commercial van.

Most models in the U.S. Mercedes-EQ line are rear-wheel drive with optional 4Matic all-wheel drive. Here is the EQ lineup to date:

• EQB small SUV with seats for 5-7, starting at $53,900;
• EQE sedan, $76,000;
• EQE SUV, $80,000;
• EQS sedan, $105,000;
• EQS SUV, $105,000;
• EQS SUV Maybach, $180,00 and up.

Check this link for current Mercedes-EQ pricing.

EQ Global Charging Network

Last year, Mercedes-Benz announced a far-reaching plan to launch a global high-power charging network across North America, Europe, China, and other key markets. By 2027, the company plans for a network of more than 400 hubs across North America, including more than 2,500 high-power chargers.

EQE SUV Pricing and Warranties

The current Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is sold in four trim levels of Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle in rear- or dual-motor 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Manufacturer retail pricing includes the $1,150 freight charge from Vance, Ala. US buyers of the EQE SUV will receive two years of free 30-minute DC Fast Charging sessions at Electrify America public charging stations.

EQE 350+ RWD $79,050-$84,800; 90.6 kWh battery, 288-hp, 418 lb.-ft. torque, 279 miles of range, 6.3 seconds 0-60 mph. (Plus stands for the highest range version in that class.)

EQE 350 4MATIC AWD $79,050-$84,800; 89 kWh battery, 288 hp, 564 lb.-ft. torque, 253 miles of range (with all-season tires), 6.2 seconds 0-60 mph.

EQE 500 4MATIC $90,650-$96,400; 90.6 kWh battery, 402 hp, 633 lb.-ft. torque, 269 miles of range, 4.6 seconds 0-60 mph.

AMG EQE 4MATIC $111,950; 90.6 kWh battery, 617 hp (677 hp with Race Start mode), 701 lb.-ft. torque (738 when using Race Start), 3.4 seconds 0-60 mph, 235 miles of range.

Today’s tester is a 2023 EQE 350+ Premium that was $86,290 with 10 packages. Among the optional equipment is 10-degree rear axle steering ($1,300), the driver-assistance package ($1,250), and the Acoustic Comfort package ($1,100). (Fresh from its spring debut, the EQE SUV will not have a freshening until 2027, according to a report in Automotive News.

There are no current federal incentives or rebates, but MBUSA.com is advertising a $7,500 lease bonus cash, which is the top tax rebate once offered by the government. Check here for special  EQ offers.

What’s New for the 2024 EQE SUV?

For the 2024 EQE model year, Mercedes-Benz has significantly added to standard equipment for the exterior, interior, and powertrain. The 2024 EQE models are expected in dealerships in the first quarter; retail pricing will initially stay the same as for 2023.

Powertrain Updates

New battery for improved range: 96.0 kWh on EQE 350+ and EQE 500 4M, 90.56 kWH on EQE 350 4Matic.

The large battery will also extend the electric range:

• EQE 350+: 307 miles, a 28-mile increase;
• EQE 350 4MATIC: 265 miles, a 12-mile increase;
• EQE 500 4MATIC: 287 miles, an 18-mile increase;
• New Standard Equipment for all EQE SUVs:

Mechanical and Digital Changes

• All-new braking system for improved brake feel;
• Flex charging cable for Level 1 and Level 2 charging;
• Power opening and closing charging port door. The charging door can be opened via the user experience screen. When the cable is removed, the door closes automatically. Opening and losing can still be done manually by pressing the charger port door.
• Communications module upgrade to 5G service;
• 2nd-row occupant reminder and seatbelt detection system;
• New “Serene Breeze” soundscape tone;
• 20-inch wheels (an $850 option in 2023);
• MBUX Hyperscreen, 56-inch curved glass instrument panel; EQE 500 4MATIC only.
• New paint choice of Sonoran Brown Metallic;
• MANUFAKTUR Moonlight White Metallic replaces MANUFAKTUR Diamond White Metallic;

Miscellaneous Changes and Updates

• New interior trim choice of Natural Grain Yacht-Design Norway Maple replaces Yacht-Design Walnut;
• Head-up display is optional with the Exclusive model, and included with the Pinnacle model;
• Beginner and Valet driver mode discontinued, and now only via Mercedes Me Store;
• Sable Brown and Neva Grey Nappa leather upholstery discontinued;
• 4-zone climate control now only on Pinnacle

EQE Warranties

All Mercedes-EQ models have bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage of 4 years or 50,000 miles. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles. The MSRP includes free scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 20,000 miles.

High repair costs and finicky electronics make a Mercedes extended warranty worth considering. Extended Limited Warranty activates after the factory warranty expires. The plans are expensive and are available in increments of 1, 2, or 3 years, but the potential peace of mind could be worth it. Start your research here.

EQE Powertrain

All models of EQE use permanently excited synchronous electric motors. An advanced cooling system helps maintain consistent motor performance in forceful driving and through various climates.

“Permanently excited” motors use less power and have a smaller motor case. The permanent magnet rotor also has a higher torque capacity, which is essential for a vehicle that weighs 5,412 pounds. Rear-drive EQE models have one motor on the rear axle, while 4Matic AWD adds another motor at the front axle. To help stretch driving range, the front motor can decouple when not needed; it will re-engage in 100 milliseconds, Mercedes says.

A single-speed automatic transmission capably controls the acceleration force without delay in uptake. Performance in Comfort mode is not quick or sharp, but it will keep the driver out of harm’s way. Switch to Sport mode for quicker and more consistent power flow.

Paddles on the steering wheel allow the driver to vary the intensity of energy recuperated by deceleration and braking during everyday driving. There are three levels of recuperation:

• Normal, which can allow one-pedal driving to bring the EQE to a stop;
• None, effectively coasting when the driver lifts off the pedal.
• D Auto, which activates intelligent ECO Assist. The system uses radar, a stereo camera, and GPS map data, including topography, traffic, and nearby vehicles. With those parameters, ECO Assist can optimize energy recovery and allow one-pedal driving in some situations.

EQE 350+ Performance

Maximum total power outputs range from 215 kW for the Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ rear-wheel drive to 300 kW for the EQE 500 4Matic. The EQE AMG packs 350 kW of power and can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds. The EQE 350+ has 288 horsepower and 417 foot-pounds of torque, channeled through a single-speed automatic transmission for 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds. 4Matic AWD models also have 288 hp but 564 lb.-ft. of torque; battery driving range drops to 253 miles.

Towing capacity: The EQE 350+ RWD is not recommended for towing, but 4Matic models have a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

EQE Charging Times

LEVEL 1 household 110-volt outlet: 2-4 miles of range per hour of charging. It has the slowest charging power available and is only recommended if no other option is available. Use a Level 1 cable to plug into a standard 120V household outlet for up to 1.9 kW power.

LEVEL 2, 240-volt (home or public charging): 20-30 miles of range per hour of charging. Charge up to 9.6kW on 40 amps for a full charge overnight.

LEVEL 3 DC Fast Charging, from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 30 minutes: Public station output can range from 50kW to 350kW. Some EQ models can support charging power of up to 200kW; the EQE can manage charging power of up to 170kW.

Onboard charger: 9.6 kW, with the optional cable, $250. (For 2024, this cable was made standard equipment.) This 9.6 kW cable is for use in 110-volt or 240-volt household outlets. Like a spare tire, the cable is better than nothing to pull in a few miles when visiting family or a friend. Hyundai includes a 10.9-kW onboard charger as standard equipment for its EVs.

Most owners of EQ vehicles will have a wall-box charger in the garage. If not, the Mercedes-Benz dealership can help with sales, installation, and accessing the Electrify America free charging via the Mercedes Me app.

Vacation Prep for Charging

Special charging care is required when a Mercedes-Benz EQE owner goes on extended travel and leaves their vehicle in the garage. After two weeks or longer, the all-important 12-volt battery likely will be weakened or dead, making it impossible to open the EQ or even get it started.

Mercedes provides no external 12-volt battery charge points, so the car must be towed to the dealer when the battery dies.

Here is what Mercedes-Benz recommends when leaving their EQ vehicle for extended periods:

• Park the vehicle with the high-voltage battery charged between 30 percent to 50 percent.
• Do not leave the vehicle plugged into a wall box or household outlet during the extended parking period.
• Every six weeks, at least, the owner should check the status of the high-voltage battery charge (in-vehicle or through the Mercedes Me app). If the traction battery dips below 30 percent, it must be charged. During times of extended non-use, do not disconnect the 12-volt battery.
• The high voltage system also charges the 12V battery.

EQE SUV Ride and Handling

The 5,400-pound EQE SUV rolls as if on memory foam, but there is some bound and heave when braking and making evasive maneuvers. The tester had the standard four-link suspension at the front and an independent multilink suspension at the rear. The components gave lush control over speed bumps and dips in the road without aggressive head-toss.

An optional AIRMATIC suspension ($1,900) substitutes electronically controlled air springs. The system can adjust to road conditions, compensate for cargo or passengers, and vary the ride height. The air springs will lower the EQE at higher speeds for improved aerodynamics or raise it up to an inch for added ground clearance.

There is not much communication of road feel through the steering, but does that matter to owners of this elevated electric SUV.

I was impressed by how nimble this big rig pivoted into tight parking with the 10-degree rear axle steering ($1,300). It shortens the turning circle from 40.4 feet to 34.4, which compares to 35.4 feet for the Subaru BRZ sports car. At speed, ear-axle steering helps tuck the EQE neatly back into place after passing a vehicle. This function is so worth the cost.

The Goodyear Eagle F1 asymmetric summer tires contribute to the comfortable and quiet ride. The tester’s 20-inch Goodyears (255/45) have a 10-inch-wide footprint and a very soft 300AAA treadwear rating (UTQG).

Electric vehicles are heavy and wear out tires faster than other vehicles. The Goodyear tires wrap the ride like a plush bathrobe, but these soft tires will be ground down before their expected 30,000-mile life cycle. These are “Mercedes Only (MO)” tires sourced through the dealership.

EQE Driving Assistance Systems

The optional Driver Assistance package ($1,250) allows Level 2 semi-autonomous driving with hands on the steering wheel. Other technologies in the package include active distance assist Distronic, active evasive steering assist, active lane change assist, active blind spot assist, active speed limit assist, and traffic sign assist.

Lane-Change Assist. As part of the optional Driver Assistance Package, and when Driver Assist is engaged, the EQE SUV can automatically initiate a lane change and pass slower vehicles without driver intervention. In my experience, the auto lane change was sometimes confused when highway lines converged or led off to an exit ramp. Because I am an active driver, the lane change action was distracting, though it might become a handy tool with more drive time to become accustomed to its inputs.

Route planning. Using “electric intelligence,” the navigation system can plan the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops and traffic jam rerouting. The system also calculates the expected charging costs for a charging stop (and these fees can be widely variable, such as time-of-day use.) Of course, the driver can edit the planned route to add preferred charging stations and exclude other charging stations.

Interior Function

Get settled behind the flat-bottom steering wheel and take in the breadth of an interior with the creativity of a concept design in real-time. Natural grain linden wood shows pristine craftwork in thin vertical strips across the instrument panel. The EQE 350+ tester is smartly dressed in MB-Tex upholstery, a manufactured vinyl. It feels richly supple, as if it were inch-thick leather. Both front seats are 10-way power adjustable and heated; ventilated seats are a $450 extra. And do not expect a heated steering wheel as standard on this $86,000 Mercedes, as I did. For 2023, a heated steering wheel is $250.

All cabin functions are accessed by digital screens, which were easy enough to figure out. The touch sensors are well-calibrated for a light and accurate selection.

The cabin is inset from the exterior by about 8 inches, which is good for side-impact crush space, but the inset and cab-forward design make forward views seem enclosed. The view looked awkward on my first drive, but there was no compromise to sightlines over the hood and fenders.

Small storage space is limited in the front seat area, and the phone charging pad is hard to access in the forward console space. But the center console storage is a canyon, about 11 inches deep by 6 ½ inches wide. The “bridge” space below the console is also huge, such as for stowing a handbag.

I like the exterior appearance of the optional and lighted running boards integrated with the lower body. But put that $650 option toward rear-axle steering. The running boards create an awkward half-step and a foot-wide step-in dilemma, causing dirty scuffs on pant legs or stockings. There are no roof rails, so the lift of a running board is unnecessary.

Back Seat and Cargo Space

Despite generous headroom of 39.3 inches and maximum legroom of 40.5 inches, the EQE SUV back seat space feels compact. The raised bench seat has a short bottom, and legroom depends on long legs in front. There are no cup or can holders, but bottle storage is in the doors. The fold-down padded armrest has a short slide-out to tuck a phone and run a charging cable to one of the dual charging USBs in the back of the front console, which protrudes into center-seat footroom.

Between the narrow rear door aperture and the obstacle of the wide running board, it can be a struggle to enter the back seat. Oddly, there are NO grab handles to give an assist. The wide boards and narrow entry will also be challenging for parents when securing children into car seats.

Cargo space of 14 cubic feet (stacked to the headliner) is broad and square, 41 inches wide and 36 inches to the seatback with 28 inches to the headliner. Fold the 40/20/40 back seat for up to 55 cubic feet. (The black carpet mat in my photo is a $90 accessory.)

There is no spare tire, only an inflator kit stored under the cargo floor where there is space for the optional charging cable. If the EQE SUV takes a header into a snowbank, there is the largest recovery tow pin I have ever seen in any vehicle. Mercedes spared no weight in providing it.

Human-Machine Interface

Electric vehicles are rolling computers with distinct characteristics not always available to a combustion engine vehicle. Among the Mercedes-EQ features are:

Soundscapes. Without the noise (sounds) from a combustion engine, Mercedes-Benz adds “holistic sound staging.” Several sound choices can be piped into the cabin.: Serene Breeze (relaxed and unagitated), Silver Waves, Vivid Flux, or Roaring Pulse (sonorous and extroverted). Interior speakers play the sounds, such as on entry, a different sound when exiting, and a driving sound that changes with accelerator position, speed, or energy recovery. The sounds can be switched off if desired.

Pre-entry climate control. A climate control algorithm uses machine learning to predict driver behavior around departure times. The system can detect a pattern if the vehicle regularly sets off from a particular place at a specific time. In that case, the activity is automatically entered into the departure time menu to provide pre-entry climate control. Another asset of this tech feature is that it allows for gentler (slower) battery charging to the required level in time for departure. This function is activated in the Mercedes Me app.

Heat pump, not radiant. Waste heat from the electric drive (inverter and electric motor) and the high-voltage battery can be used to heat the interior. Using a heat pump rather than traditional radiant cabin heating drastically reduces the draw on battery power for the heating system, which increases the range, Mercedes says.

EQE Safety Features and Ratings

There are no official safety ratings for the Mercedes-Benz EQE models from the NHTSA  or IIHS. According to online reports, it is not uncommon for luxury cars, supercars, and hypercars that sell in small numbers to not undergo government crash testing.

The European NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) has tested the EQE and awarded it a five-star rating. But Consumer Reports advises car shoppers against relying on ratings from safety agencies in other countries because protocols and safety standards can differ from country to country. Vehicles sold in other markets might also have design differences that affect their performance in crash tests, even if those variations are not visible.

Standard safety technologies on all Mercedes-EQ models include active lane-keeping assist, active parking assist with a surround-view camera system, active brake assist, and a Pre-Safe predictive occupant protection system. The status and activity of the systems can be viewed in the driver’s gauge display.

Of particular interest is the Guard 360 vehicle protection with parking damage detection. Guard 360 is a relatively new anti-theft technology provided by Mercedes-Benz. It is an “intelligent” system comprised of an anti-theft alarm system, a tow-away protection system with visuals and alarms, and various sensors and monitors for parking collision detection.

When there is an incident, the driver receives detailed information via the Mercedes Me App. The system also records images of damage, which can be viewed on the MBUX screen or in the app. If the vehicle is stolen, damaged, or towed, the owner will get notifications on their smartphone, including photos, dates, and time stamps. The system also presents a local contact number for police. There is a good explainer YouTube video by the MBZ Master here.

EQE SUV Oddities and Observations

External wiper-washer-fluid access. The first thing I noticed on the front left fender of the EQE SUV 350+ tester was a slim cutout panel. It is the access point to add windshield washer fluid. I thought odd, but the reason for it is in the next paragraph.

Factory-secured hood. I learned that the external washer-fluid access is because the owner cannot or should not open the hood. Per the owner’s manual, a certified Mercedes-Benz technician or qualified specialist service facility must perform any under-hood maintenance. That includes charging the 12-volt battery when needed; the 12-volt battery powers features such as door locking and unlocking, audio, and the blinking light of theft monitoring.

No Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability. This EV technology uses “reverse compatibility,” or bidirectional, to allow an EV battery to be used as an alternate power source. Hyundai, for example, provides a special cable with its electric vehicles to tap the traction battery in the event of a significant power outage. I consider this function a simple survival asset. V2L is handy for operating small appliances, recharging electronic devices, or giving a boost to another EV.

Back to the Dealership. Mercedes-EQ vehicle owners depend on just about every aspect of maintenance for their vehicle, from factory-specific tires to a simple charge of a dead 12-volt battery.

Why Buy the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV?

Mercedes-Benz knows its customer base and builds the EQ lineup to their satisfaction. Many EQ owners are long-time Benz owners and have a combustion-engine Mercedes in their garage. Take a look at MBWorld.com  or Benzworld.com.

Mercedes is not fazed by what other brands do for their EVs except to meet or surpass engineering standards and the driving range. There are many well-done battery-electric competitors to the EQ, but Mercedes’ presentation of luxury makes it unique. Other marques in this luxury queue include the Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW i5, Genesis Electrified G80, Polestar 2, Lucid Air, and Volvo EX90.

There have been growing pains with this new Mercedes-EQ platform, primarily in electronic glitches, which EQ owners well document in online forums, including this one. The owners are not happy having to go back to the dealership, and sometimes, it can take days to solve a problem. However, owner comments make it appear that M-B takes care of customers when issues arise, and the owners praise how their vehicle drives and handles.

Electric vehicle technologies are still in their nebula stage, and electronic glitches will continue as we drive into the future.

The electrification plan for Mercedes-Benz EQ, including the manufacturing process, is at the forefront of innovation, shaping a greener, more efficient future. And Mercedes EQ owners want to be on the point of that spear.

Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV Specifications

Body style: midsize 5-seat battery-electric SUV with rear-wheel drive

Motor: rear axle, 215 kW permanently excited synchronous

Power, RWD: 288 hp / 417 lb.-ft. torque

Battery: lithium-ion, 90.6 kWh, 330 volts, 180 cells in 10 modules

Transmission: single speed, with adjustable regenerative braking via steering wheel paddles

EPA-estimated driving range: 279 miles

Fuel economy equivalent, MPGe: 94/87/91 mpg city/hwy/combined

0-60 mph acceleration: 6.4 seconds

Charging

• Level II standard 120-volt: 9.5 hours
• DC fast charge, 170 kW: 32 minutes, 10% to 80%;
• Onboard charger: 9.6 kW

BY THE NUMBERS

Cargo space: 14-55 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 39.4*/40.6 inches *w/sunroof

Rear head/leg room: 39.3/40.5 inches

Length/wheelbase: 191.5/119.2 inches

Width/height: 84.3*/66.3 inches *76.4 inches w/o side mirrors

Curb weight: 5,412.3 pounds

Turning circle: 40.4 feet, or 34.4 with rear axle steering

FEATURES

2023 EQE SUV standard equipment includes: Keyless-Go entry with push-button start, MBUX multimedia system with 12.8-inch OLED portrait display, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, navigation with EQ optimized routing, wireless smartphone charging pad, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Mercedes Me connect services trial period, Burmester 3D surround sound audio system, power tilt-sliding panorama roof, 10-way power (heated) front seats, 64-color ambient lighting, power closing tailgate with kick opening, LED headlights with adaptive high-beam assist.

Safety features include: 7 air bags, active lane-keeping assist, active parking assist with surround-view camera system, active brake assist, Pre-Safe predictive occupant protection system, and Guard 360 vehicle protection with parking damage detection.

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Brakes: Regenerative 4-wheel ventilated discs, 15.3 inches front, 14.9 inches rear; with brake assist, hill hold control, and electric parking brake

Steering: Electric power-assist speed-sensitive; 40.4 turning circle of 34.4 feet with the optional 10-degree rear axle steering

Tires-wheels: Optional, 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 asymmetric summer tires, 255/45 (Mercedes Only);

Suspension: standard four-link at the front and an independent multilink suspension at the rear. Optional air springs.

PRICING

Base EQE SUV price: $79,050, including $1,150 freight charge; price as tested $86,290

Options on test vehicle: 10-degree rear axle steering $1,300, Driver-Assistance package $1,250, Acoustic Comfort package $1,100, home charging cable $250, ventilated front seats $450, black carpeted trunk mat $90, illuminated running boards $650, DE1 exclusive trim level package $850 (as active ambient lighting, MBUX augmented reality for navigation), 20-inch 5-spoke wheels with black accents and summer tires, Energizing Air Control Plus with HEPA filter $450

Where assembled: Vance, Ala.

Warranties: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper; 10-years/150,000-miles hybrid battery