The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is a battery-electric midsize crossover that seats 5 passengers. It slots between the smaller EQB and larger EQS in Mercedes' electric SUV lineup. It is offered in single-motor/rear-drive and dual-motor/all-wheel drive configurations. Competitors include the Audi e-tron, BMW iX, Cadillac Lyriq, Genesis GV80 Electric, Lexus RZ and Tesla Model Y.
Single-motor, rear wheel drive models are dubbed EQE 350+ and have a 288 horsepower/517 lb.-ft. of torque motor that offers a maximum EPA range of 279 miles. EQE 350 4Matic models add a motor to the front wheels. Horsepower stays the same, but torque jumps to 364 lb.-ft and range drops to 253 miles. The EQE 500 4Matic adds high-output motors that see horsepower jump to 402 and torque to 633 lb-ft. It also gets a larger battery for an overall EPA range of 269 miles. Topping the lineup is the AMG EQE SUV that offers a dual-motor setup with 614 horsepower and 701 lb-ft of torque and an EPA range of 235 miles. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds.
Pricing starts at $80,000 and climbs to more than $110,000 for the AMG model. All come standard with forward-collision warning with automatic braking, blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assist and a 360-degree camera system. Also standard are LED headlights, power liftgate, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.8-inch central infotainment touchscreen, wireless charger and wireless support for Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
Despite modest horsepower numbers, the base EQE 350 is quick, scooting from 0 to 60 MPH in a scant 5.6 seconds. That said, it's not as spry on the highway, where the instant torque of an electric motor is less useful than horsepower. The solution for that is the 500, it's downright fast at all speeds. The performance-oriented AMG model is faster still, but it comes with a big hit in overall range.
Utilizing a few hypermiling techniques and one-pedal driving you "can" match the EPA's range ratings. But in reality expect about 20 percent less, accounting for weather and other factors. Though the EQE can fast charge, there's still a lot of kilowatts to transfer, so charging takes longer than smaller and lighter electric vehicles. Mercedes-Benz claims that you can charge the EQE from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 30 minutes. (Although that assumes you have access to the appropriate DC fast-charging station)
Like most all-wheel drive electric vehicles, there is no direct connection between the front and rear axles. That means that the dual motors and electronic wizardry is monitoring traction to minimize wheel spin. That's not an ideal solution for hard-core off roading, but more than appropriate for around-town driving and the occasional dirt-road jaunt.
Dynamically, the EQE SUV is agreeable to drive, and most buyers in this segment are likely to find it comfortable and competent. An optional adjustable air suspension can raise the EQE SUV by an inch for greater ground clearance and an available rear-axle steering system is available to swing the rear wheels up to 10 degrees in either direction to aid maneuverability and handling.
All told, the ride is firm, but comfortable. The steering, though typical Mercedes-Benz slow lock-to-lock, is firm and precise. Brakes have a predictable feel and ample stopping power. Though the EQE SUV corners with aplomb, there's a lot of weight moving around in quick transitions and that can be a bit unsettling.
The AMG model is in a class of maybe two, with the BMW iX, in terms of overall performance and handling capabilities for a large electric crossover. That is until Porsche comes to the table with it's electric crossover.
EQE's regenerative braking offers several different modes, some of which aren't easy to get used to when driving. For EV drivers in the habit of driving with just one foot, the EQE SUV does offer one-pedal driving.
Inside, the cabin is awash in tech and glitz. Materials are beyond reproach and assembly quality is top notch. The entire cabin is lit by LED ambient lighting, giving the interior a true private jet appeal.
The front seats are extremely comfortable and provide ample support. Head and leg room are exceptional. The same can be said for the rear seats, that are really designed for 2 passengers, not 3. Entry and exit is a little daunting because the door openings aren't as tall as you'd expect and taller passengers will have to bend at the neck to avoid hitting the headliner. Outward visibility is good but hampered a bit by thick pillars.
The massive and dazzling twin screen instrument panel can be daunting and confusing -- even after a trip through the owner's manual. On the plus side, you can do everything under the sun with the touchscreen. On the flip side, changing the radio station, setting the climate control and event answering phone calls can be a challenge when on the move.
With all seats in place, EQE SUV offers 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Not much more than a typical large sedan. Folding the seats increases cargo capacity to 59 cubic feet. Either way, not nearly as commodious as traditionally powered rivals, but on par with other battery electrics. Interior storage is meager.
Bottom Line -- Despite being battery powered, the EQE SUV is exactly what you would expect from Mercedes-Benz. An extremely quiet, comfortable and capable crossover loaded with tech and luxury. Downsides include mediocre range and high prices.
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