Performance Focus For New Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

MERCEDES-BENZ has revealed an SUV version of its all-electric EQE. The new EQE SUV launches with a choice of five models, two of which have been tweaked by in-house tuning firm AMG.

It’s not yet clear which models will come over to the UK, but Mercedes-Benz has announced that a EQE 350+ SUV will be the headline range model, with 367 miles available on a charge from the single-motor, 215 kW (292 hp), rear-wheel drive model.

EQE 350 4Matic and EQE 500 4Matic versions will produce 215 kW and 300 kW respectively, though from twin electric motors. The 350 4Matic will cover 347 miles, and the more powerful 500 4Matic 340 miles.

However, it is the performance potential of the AMG models that has been highlighted by Mercedes-Benz. The EQE 43 4Matic and EQE 53 4Matic+ will be available, featuring huge power outputs.

Over 600hp For Top EQE 53 Model

Powered by twin electric motors for all-wheel drive, the EQE 43 SUV produces 350 kW (476 hp). It’s a considerable figure, but topped by the EQE 53, which offers up to 460 kW (625 hp), though also features a boost mode that unlocks the power to 505 kW (687 hp) for a brief time.

Based on the same platform as the EQE saloon – which offers one of the longest driving ranges on the market – the EQE SUV will cover up to 303 miles in EQE 43 guise, and 292 miles for the EQE 53.

All versions are powered by a 90.6 kWh battery, and the EQE SUV will add more than 100 mile of range in 15 minutes when plugged in to a 170+ kW High-Power Charger.

Pitched against the likes of the Tesla Model X and BMW iX, the EQE SUV looks unsurprisingly like a blend of EQE saloon and EQS SUV from the German giant. Inside, the top-spec models are available with the Mercedes-Benz MBUX “Hyperscreen”, a cockpit-wide sheet of curved glass that houses digital driver’s instruments, a huge infotainment system, and a touchscreen for the passenger as well.

Effectively an all-electric GLE, the EQE SUV is kitted out as you would expect from a premium SUV. This includes Digital Light headlight technology, a HEPA-filtered climate control system, Energising Comfort massaging seats, Dolby Atmosphere audio system, and a suite of driver assistance systems.

Over-the-air updates will be included from Mercedes-Benz, as will the Mercedes me Charge public charger roaming service, which allows access to a wide range of networks’ charge points sing one card.

Pricing is yet to be announced, though leasing details are expected closer to the car’s planned arrival in the UK, due towards the middle of 2023.