New Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV leads with electric intelligence, space, and comfort

The new Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV has the same charm and appeal of its model series: plenty of space, luxurious interior, and extensive comfort features. Following in the footsteps of the saloon EQS and the sporty executive saloon EQE, the all-electric EQS SUV is another step forward in Mercedes-Benz’s path to zero-emission mobility and fulfilling the manufacturer’s Ambition 2039 plan.

With space for up to seven passengers, the avant-garde EQS SUV is an all-electric powerhouse offered in three specifications: EQS 450+, EQS 450 4MATIC, and EQS 580 4MATIC.

The latter two command a responsive 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a dedicated intelligent Offroad driving mode too. Packing powerful electric motors, the EQS SUV takes on light terrain with ease as well.

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Driving and performance

The EQS SUV offers Mercedes’s standard Dynamic Select modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. Additionally, the 4MATIC versions will feature Offroad, specifically made to tackle tough terrains.

All EQS SUVs have an electric drive train (eATS) on the rear axle, and the versions with 4MATIC also have eATS 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, promoting a more efficient use of the electric drive train.

The electric motors on the front and rear axles are permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM). The advantage of this design includes high-power density, high efficiency, and high-power dependability.

Furthermore, rear-axle steering with a steering angle of up to 4.5 degrees is standard. It provides plenty of manoeuvrability on city roads and good agility over land. Later, drivers can get a version with up to 10 degrees steering angle as an upgraded option via an over-the-air (OTA) update.

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Electric intelligence

The EQS SUV has a charging time of 31 minutes when using a 200kw fast charger and offers a max range of 155 miles after just 15 minutes of charge.

When it comes to real-world range, the EQS 450+ offers up to 410 miles whilst the EQS 450 4MATIC, and EQS 580 4MATIC give up to 380 miles on a single charge.

EQS SUV drivers needn’t worry about charging stops. Mercedes me Charge is one of the largest charging networks worldwide. It currently comprises over 700,000 AC and DC charging points, including around 300,000 in Europe. The new Mercedes me Charge function Plug & Charge makes charging the EQS SUV at public charging stations even more convenient.

For all your car journeys in the EQS SUV, navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops. The system is based on numerous factors and reacts dynamically to traffic jams or a change in driving style, for example.

Charging stations along the route that have been added manually are given preference in the route calculation. The estimated charging costs per charging stop are also calculated.

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Interiors and connectivity

The interior dimensions benefit from the EQS SUV’s generous long wheelbase dimensions (321 cm) and from the advantages of the purpose design tailored to the electric platform.

The second row of seats can be electrically adjusted as standard. Up to four golf bags fit in the boot. A third row of seats with two additional individual seats and extensive comfort features for all passengers is available as an option.

With intelligent software, MBUX fully adapts to its users and provides them with personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions. The most important applications are always offered on the topmost level within the field of vision, according to situation and context.

One of the highlights of the interior is the MBUX Hyperscreen (special equipment). This large, curved screen unit spans almost from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens sit under a common cover glass and merge visually. Adding to this is the Dolby Atmos sound system, taking the EQS SUV’s audio experience to a whole new level.

The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives them their own display and control area. The front seat passenger is also able to watch dynamic content while the vehicle is on the move. This is because Mercedes-EQ models can rely on an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic: If the camera detects that the driver is looking at the passenger display, the system automatically dims the dynamic content.

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Safety features

Like all other Mercedes-Benz models, the EQS SUV has a rigid passenger cell, special deformation zones and modern restraint systems.

The European version of the EQS SUV is the first Mercedes-Benz model to be able to detect whether rear seats are occupied. If a passenger in the rear is not wearing a seat belt, the driver receives a warning.

Another standard feature in the EQS SUV is the occupant presence reminder. This system can indicate children who may have been overlooked in the rear of the vehicle.

The EQS SUV is also the first in the series where drivers will be able to update and activate more of the latest features via OTA. This includes: Trailer Manoeuvring Assist and MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) Augmented Reality Navigation.

The EQS SUV will be produced in a completely CO₂-neutral way. It is set to arrive in the UK in late 2022 with prices starting from £110,000.