Mercedes-Benz has certainly figured out electric.
Ending a recent run of testing electric models, the 2023 Mercedes EQE 500 4MATIC SUV certainly stands out from the crowd.
The EQE 500 was flawless. Loaded with all the technology and creature comforts one has come to expect from the German automaker, the two-row SUV delivers a powerful, agile, smooth ride, and range of 279 miles with zero emissions.
All EQE SUVs have an electric drivetrain on the rear axle. The versions with 4MATIC also have an electric drivetrain on the front axle. In the 4MATIC models, the “Torque Shift” function ensures intelligent, continuously variable distribution of drive torque between the rear and front electric motors to ensure maximum efficiency.
The lithium-ion battery in the EQE SUV consists of ten cell blocks. The battery warranty is valid for ten years or 155,000 miles. The new batteries set standards in terms of performance, efficiency and charging capacity with “over-the-air” battery management software updates available.
The result is an eye-popping 402 horsepower and 633 lb-ft of torque. The power is complemented by a comfortable suspension with adaptive damping, all-wheel drive, adjustable regenerative braking, and a 170kW DC fast charging system.
The chassis of the new EQE 500 comprises a four-link suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. Due to the comparatively short wheelbase of 119.3 inches, and the corresponding suspension tuning, it feels particularly agile and maneuverable.
Another crafty bit of engineering features a sophisticated thermal architecture with a heat pump as standard. This makes the system work very efficiently: the waste heat from the electric drive (inverter and electric motor) and also the high-voltage battery can be used to heat the interior. This drastically reduces the draw on battery power for the heating system and increases range.
The proportions of the EQE 500 combine function and aesthetics with the sporty character of a SUV. Featuring an unmistakable purposeful design, the overhangs and the front-end assembly have been kept compact. The wheels vary in sizes from 19 to 21 inches and are positioned flush with the outer edge of the body to lend a commanding stance.
All five passengers benefit from truly comfortable, leather seating. Front passengers receive heated, ventilated, and massage options. Other goodies include a Burmester 3D surround sound system, panoramic moonroof, navigation system displayed o a 12.8-inch OLED screen, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charger, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Two other functions were impressive. “The “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant allows for vehicle operation without the push of a button. The function will change the channel, operate the panoramic moonroof or windows, or any other number of functions.
With the “Online Music” service, Mercedes-Benz has now fully integrated the major music streaming services – Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Music – into the MBUX infotainment system. MBUX enables access to the personal user profile at the linked music providers. This allows customers to seamlessly access their favorite songs and playlists and discover millions of songs as well as curated playlists.
The safety suite is comprised of state-of-the-art technology. Personal favorites include active emergency stop assist, evasive steering assist, active blind spot, speed limit and traffic sign assist, active steering wheel assist and active lane change assist.
Base Price: $90,650
Price As Driven: $104,835
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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