Mercedes EQE SUV (2023) review: agile yet hefty

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【Summary】The Mercedes EQE SUV is an all-electric crossover with twin-motor four-wheel drive. It offers a range of up to 341 miles and impressive acceleration. However, the car's handling and ride quality could be improved. The interior features a familiar dashboard design and ample space, but the perceived build quality is mixed. The EQE SUV is expensive compared to other SUVs and lacks the same level of luxury as competitors like the BMW iX.

FutureCar Staff Nov 20, 2023 5:18 AM PT

Mercedes EQE SUV (2023) review: agile yet hefty

The all-electric Mercedes EQE SUV is the crossover version of the EQE saloon, offering a bit more height for increased practicality. Unlike the EQE saloons, which are rear-wheel drive unless you choose the AMG 53 model, the EQE SUV comes exclusively with twin-motor four-wheel drive. Currently, the options for the EQE SUV in the UK are the 350 4Matic and 500 4Matic models, with an AMG 53 version coming soon. Other markets have rear-wheel drive versions available at lower prices. In the UK, the EQE SUV starts at over £90k, putting it in competition with the Audi Q8 E-Tron and BMW iX.

The EQE SUV offers two battery options: an 89kWh battery for the 350 model and a slightly larger 91kWh battery for the 500 model. Mercedes claims a range of up to 341 miles for both models. Both models also come with a towing package rated at up to 3500kg. The 350 model has 288bhp and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds, while the 500 model has 402bhp and can achieve the same acceleration in 4.9 seconds.

The EQE SUV offers a refined and quiet ride, with minimal tire noise and a sleek body shape that cuts through the air smoothly. However, it can feel heavy and cumbersome in corners due to its weight of over 2.5 tonnes. The rear-wheel steering takes some getting used to, but overall, the EQE handles well with good grip and the ability to confidently tackle corners.

The EQE SUV's interior features a familiar dashboard design, with lower trim levels having a 12.3-inch digital display for the driver and a 12.8-inch touchscreen for infotainment control. The AMG Line Premium option offers the Hyperscreen, which includes a landscape-oriented central touchscreen, an additional 12.3-inch touchscreen for the passenger, and all screens placed under one piece of glass. However, this option comes at a high cost and has some drawbacks in terms of button placement.

The perceived build quality of the EQE SUV is mixed, with some areas featuring cheap and scratchy plastic while other areas have softer, more luxurious materials. In terms of space, the EQE SUV offers generous head and legroom for four adults and has a boot space of 520 litres, slightly better than the BMW iX.

Overall, the EQE SUV has potential, with impressive space and range. However, it feels like there are still some adjustments needed in terms of ride and handling. Additionally, it is an expensive SUV that may not offer as much luxury as other similarly priced options like the BMW iX.