Mercedes-Benz places a hefty bet on the all-electric EQE SUV, envisioning its future popularity akin to the gas-powered GLE-Class, a top-selling crossover. This marks a significant ambition, given the fierce competition not only from BMW and Audi but also from Tesla. The EQE lineup offers three variants, with the entry-level EQE350+ under scrutiny. How does this base model measure up against rivals, and does it provide a strong foundation for the higher-priced alternatives?
Why this is Significant
The two-row EQE midsize crossover joins the EQE sedan and the larger EQS models in Mercedes-Benz’s strategic shift towards electric vehicles. This transition mirrors the nomenclature of the EQS, with the “+” in EQE’s name signifying rear-wheel-drive and the best EPA-estimated driving range within the EQE family. In contrast, other EQE variants are all-wheel drive and can’t match the range of the “+”. Moreover, this variant stands as the most affordable EQE SUV in the lineup.
Despite being powered by a single rear motor, the EQE350+ SUV delivers a quick and powerful performance, primarily owing to the substantial torque generated by its 288-hp motor. This punchy drive motor ensures engaging and impressive responses for most users, facilitating seamless passing maneuvers and swift acceleration onto highways. However, in the realm of power and speed, there are competitors that outshine.
The EQE350+ SUV, albeit providing satisfying driving experiences, grapples with its weight as a five-passenger SUV. This combined with its single-drive motor, impacts its overall performance objectives. The 2023 Tesla Model Y Dual Motor is long-range, more powerful and lighter, and accelerates to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds—1.3 seconds faster than the EQE. Similarly, the 2022 BMW iX xDrive50, despite being heavier, achieves 60 mph in a flat 4.0 seconds, further surpassing the EQE’s performance.
In most everyday driving scenarios, the EQE350+ SUV delivers ample speed, leaving little to be desired. The power train operates seamlessly, ensuring effortless launches without any drama. However, for enthusiasts who are seeking more speed, the dual-motor EQE stands as a faster and more competitive option.
Steering Well Matters More than Speed
Handling of the EQE350+ SUV benefits from the electric vehicle’s low center of gravity, accompanied by standard adaptive suspension, grippy summer tires, and an optional $1,300 rear-axle steering. The turning radius of the Benz is remarkably tight, offering direct steering, albeit leaning towards the side of being conservative. Despite encountering some pronounced body motions during testing on the road course, traction remained stable, not significantly affecting performance.
During testing, the EQE350+ SUV displayed comparable lateral acceleration to the Model Y and outperformed the BMW iX. However, this balance shifts in the figure-eight “racetrack in a bottle” assessment, where both the Tesla and BMW showcased superior speed and endurance. Nonetheless, on smooth pavements, the Mercedes proves to be exceptionally stable, even for a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, gripping tight through the curves.
The driver-assistance safety features in the EQE350+ SUV stand out for their intuitiveness and intelligence. Lane-keeping, lane-centering, and adaptive cruise controls garnered commendation for their effective performance.
While the Mercedes offers a larger size compared to compact luxury crossovers, it falls short in terms of front legroom and cargo space behind the second row when compared to models like the Genesis GV60 and Volvo XC40 Recharge. Folding the rear seat increases cargo volume by 2.5 cubic feet, totaling 57.5 cubic feet, surpassing the more compact Volvo. Some editors expressed a sense of claustrophobia while seated in the driver’s position, attributing it partly to the perceived size of the dashboard.
However, the second row offers generous headroom and legroom, despite a slightly elevated floor and rear doors that open to a limited angle of approximately 75 degrees. In this base model, rear passengers have limited control options—rear AC vents and hideaway USB ports are available, but the absence of controls (except on the Pinnacle trim) is noticeable. Moreover, the front lacks a third screen.
Despite the desire for more spaciousness, the interior design integrates clever storage solutions throughout the cabin. The center console in the first row features a lower tier with dedicated USB outlets and a strap, while the split-opening bin lid of the console is appreciated. The rear hold offers decent space under the floor. While some technology consistently functioned well, such as Apple CarPlay, the plethora of screens and menus on the EQE SUV’s central display could become overwhelming. The touchpad controls on the steering wheel were identified as cumbersome and confusing for a vehicle of this caliber.
For most users, the interior represents a luxurious and stylish space for travel. The large windows and standard panoramic sunroof enhance the experience. Although lacking the three-screen Hyperscreen setup found in other EQ models, the 12.3-inch gauge cluster display and 12.8-inch central touchscreen are positioned at an ideal height for easy viewing. The steering wheel’s design is appealing, all seating positions are comfortable, and the materials exude a premium feel, despite minor concerns about certain aspects of the build quality. Notably, the changing ambient lighting of the EQE is visible even in daylight.
What about the Exterior?
On the flip side, the exterior styling leaves much to be desired. The EQE SUV’s profile offers the best perspective of its SUV proportions, as other angles lack definition and personality. Even with a $2,200 AMG Line body kit, the black pieces didn’t add a striking visual impact to our Obsidian Black Metallic 350+ SUV.
The ride of the EQE350+ SUV is not flawless—it feels firm and rigid on uneven and bumpy roads. On these surfaces, wind and road noise can infiltrate the cabin at higher speeds. Additionally, while the rear-wheel steering improves maneuverability on pavement, at slower speeds, especially off-road, the Mercedes can become less predictable.
Acknowledging that the EQE isn’t geared towards sportiness or off-road capabilities, it’s worth noting that some evaluators expressed dissatisfaction with the unique brake pedal mechanism and its synchronization with the level of regenerative braking. While this system effectively controls the 5,436-pound EQE350+ SUV and achieves a 60 mph stop, the BMW iX manages to stop two feet shorter in 120 feet, and the Model Y in 118 feet.
Considering the EQE’s MSRP exceeding $90,000, the estimated 279 miles of range might be underwhelming for potential buyers. Notably, the 2023 Model Y, equipped with 19-inch wheels and its standard battery, shares a similar range estimate from the EPA. However, Tesla’s SUV lineup includes models capable of reaching as far as 330 miles, and at a considerably lower price point. Additionally, the competition, particularly the BMW iX, offers a minimum range estimate of 315 miles for a non-M model.
In conclusion, our 2023 EQE350+ SUV featured $12,670 in options. If given the choice, opting for only the rear steering, ventilated front seats, Driver Assistance package, and home charging cable would reduce the price to a more reasonable $82,300—almost $6,000 less than the base model of the 2024 iX. However, the Bimmer still provides a superior SUV experience, especially in terms of range, for a slightly higher price.
The Mercedes-EQ EQE350+ SUV caters to the preferences of two-row crossover shoppers, offering a blend of appealing features.
However, some elements are missing in the base model that pushes it to the forefront of cutting-edge technology. Both newcomers and brand loyalists will appreciate the EV’s luxury, performance, and technological offerings. Nevertheless, the pricing may pose a challenge, particularly as Tesla aggressively prices their models.