The Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ marks a significant milestone in the evolution of electric vehicles, blending luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology into a package that is both eco-friendly and exhilarating to drive. As part of Mercedes’ push towards a fully electric future, the EQS SUV 450+ offers an enticing glimpse into the possibilities of electric mobility. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the vehicle’s key aspects, including its performance, battery and charging capabilities, design, infotainment systems, comfort features, and safety technologies. By the end of this review, you will have a thorough understanding of what makes the EQS SUV 450+ a standout in the electric SUV market.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power | 265 kW (355 hp) |
| Torque | 568 Nm (419 lb-ft) |
| Acceleration | 6.8 sec 0-100 km/h (6.6 sec 0-60 mph) |
| Max Speed | 210 km/h (130 mph) |
| Battery Capacity | 118 kWh usable |
| Range | 709 km WLTP |
| Consumption | 19.1 kWh/100 km WLTP |
| Charging Time (AC) | Type 2 11 kW, 100% in 12.25 hours |
| Charging Time (DC) | CCS 200 kW max, 10-80% in 31 min |
| Dimensions | 5125 x 1959 x 1718 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm |
| Curb Weight | 2730 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 750 kg (braked and unbraked) |
| Price | €110,800 / $104,400 / £94,900 |
Performance
The Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ stands out as a powerhouse in the electric SUV market, offering a performance profile that balances efficiency with excitement. Equipped with a rear-wheel-drive system, this SUV delivers 265 kW (355 hp) and 568 Nm (419 lb-ft) of torque, ensuring a smooth yet exhilarating driving experience. The acceleration is impressive for an SUV of this size, with a 0-100 km/h time of just 6.8 seconds, showcasing the vehicle’s ability to deliver quick bursts of speed when needed. Additionally, with a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph), the EQS SUV 450+ comfortably handles both city streets and open highways.
Driving the EQS SUV 450+ feels more like piloting a luxury sedan than an SUV, thanks to its refined suspension system. The four-link front axle, multi-link rear axle, and Airmatic air suspension with adjustable damping (ADS+) provide a plush ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Moreover, the optional rear-axle steering (up to 10 degrees) enhances maneuverability, making this large SUV surprisingly agile in tight spaces and around corners. The combination of these features ensures that the EQS SUV 450+ offers a driving experience that is both engaging and comfortable, making it a top choice for those who seek luxury without compromising on performance.
Battery and Charging
One of the standout features of the Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ is its advanced battery technology, which is designed to maximize both range and efficiency. The vehicle is equipped with a 118 kWh usable battery, which is among the largest available in any electric vehicle today. This substantial battery capacity allows the EQS SUV 450+ to achieve an impressive WLTP range of 709 km, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs on the market. This range is particularly advantageous for long-distance travel, where the need for frequent charging is significantly reduced.
When it comes to recharging, the EQS SUV 450+ offers multiple options to suit different needs. For daily charging, the vehicle supports AC charging at up to 22 kW, which can fully recharge the battery in approximately 12.25 hours using a compatible home or public charging station. For those in a hurry, the EQS SUV 450+ is also equipped with DC fast charging capabilities, supporting up to 200 kW. This allows the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes at a suitable charging station. These charging times ensure that the EQS SUV 450+ is ready to go whenever you are, whether you’re planning a short commute or a long road trip.
Additionally, Mercedes has integrated a sophisticated energy recuperation system into the EQS SUV 450+, which helps to extend the vehicle’s range even further. The system offers five modes of recuperation, which can be adjusted via the shift paddles on the steering wheel. This feature allows drivers to tailor the energy recovery process to their driving style, optimizing efficiency without sacrificing performance. The inclusion of a heat pump further enhances efficiency by reducing the energy required for cabin heating, particularly in colder climates. Together, these features make the EQS SUV 450+ a leader in electric vehicle technology, offering a combination of range, efficiency, and convenience that is hard to beat.
Design and Dimensions
The design of the Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ is a perfect blend of elegance and functionality, reflecting the brand’s commitment to luxury and innovation. The exterior design is sleek and aerodynamic, with a drag coefficient of just 0.26 Cd, which is remarkably low for a vehicle of this size. This aerodynamic efficiency not only contributes to the vehicle’s impressive range but also enhances its overall performance by reducing wind resistance at higher speeds.
At 5125 mm in length, 1959 mm in width, and 1718 mm in height, the EQS SUV 450+ commands a strong presence on the road, yet its proportions are carefully balanced to avoid the bulkiness that often characterizes large SUVs. The 3210 mm wheelbase provides a spacious interior, ensuring ample legroom for all passengers, while the overall height and width offer a commanding view of the road ahead. The available wheel sizes, ranging from 20 to 22 inches, further enhance the vehicle’s stance, giving it a robust yet refined look.
The front of the EQS SUV 450+ is dominated by the iconic Mercedes-Benz grille, now reimagined for the electric era with a solid panel that incorporates intricate patterns and the brand’s emblem. The LED headlamps, with their distinctive design, provide excellent visibility while adding to the vehicle’s modern aesthetic. The front bumper is sculpted to complement the aerodynamic lines of the vehicle, while the side profile features smooth, flowing contours that lead the eye towards the rear, where a panoramic glass roof seamlessly integrates with the tailgate. This glass roof not only enhances the exterior design but also floods the interior with natural light, creating an open and airy feel.
The rear design is equally impressive, with a continuous LED light strip that stretches across the width of the vehicle, emphasizing its broad stance. The tailgate is designed for easy access to the trunk, which offers 645 liters of cargo space, expandable to 2100 liters with the rear seats folded down. This makes the EQS SUV 450+ a practical choice for families or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle for both daily driving and long trips. Overall, the design of the EQS SUV 450+ is a masterful blend of form and function, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical utility.
Infotainment and Displays
The Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ sets a new benchmark for in-car technology, with a suite of advanced infotainment and display systems that redefine the driving experience. At the heart of the vehicle’s interior is the MBUX Hyperscreen, an expansive 56-inch curved display that spans the entire width of the dashboard. This system integrates the instrument cluster, central infotainment display, and a passenger display into a single seamless unit, providing a truly immersive experience.
The central display, available in 12.8-inch or 17.7-inch sizes depending on the trim level, serves as the command center for all vehicle functions. It offers intuitive touch controls for navigation, entertainment, climate control, and more. The interface is designed to be user-friendly, with customizable widgets that allow drivers to access their most-used functions quickly. The passenger display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, allows the front passenger to interact with the vehicle’s systems without distracting the driver, enhancing the overall user experience.
The driver is also treated to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which provides clear and concise information on speed, range, and other critical data. This display can be customized to show different driving modes and styles, allowing drivers to tailor the information to their preferences. Additionally, the EQS SUV 450+ features a head-up display with augmented reality, which projects key information onto the windshield, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road while staying informed.
For rear-seat passengers, the EQS SUV 450+ offers an optional 11.6-inch display system, integrated into the back of the front seats. This system provides entertainment options such as streaming services, games, and more, ensuring that everyone in the vehicle stays entertained on long journeys. The rear seats also feature a comfort armrest with a detachable tablet, allowing passengers to control their environment with ease.
Connectivity is another strong point of the EQS SUV 450+, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay included as standard. The vehicle also features a fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, allowing drivers to securely access their personalized profiles and settings. Front and rear automatic doors with smart power open/close functions add to the convenience, while the THERMOTRONIC automatic air conditioning system, available with four or five climate zones depending on the seating configuration, ensures that everyone stays comfortable, regardless of where they are sitting.
Comfort and Convenience
Comfort has always been a hallmark of the Mercedes-Benz brand, and the EQS SUV 450+ is no exception. This luxury electric SUV offers a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience and ensure that every journey is as pleasant as possible.
The EQS SUV 450+ comes with heated and cooled front seats, providing optimal comfort in any weather condition. The outer rear seats are also heated, which is a thoughtful touch for passengers in colder climates. Additionally, the front seats can be equipped with hot-stone massaging functionality, which adds an extra layer of relaxation for the driver and front passenger. This feature is particularly useful on long drives, helping to reduce fatigue and enhance overall comfort.
A standout feature of the EQS SUV 450+ is its panoramic glass sunroof, which extends across the entire roof of the vehicle. This large glass panel not only adds to the vehicle’s sleek aesthetic but also floods the cabin with natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere. The sunroof can be tilted and slid open to provide fresh air on demand, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors even when driving in inclement weather.
The vehicle’s parking aids include front and rear sensors, a 360-degree camera system, and a reversing camera. These features work together to make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and more precise. The self-parking and remote parking assist functions are particularly convenient, allowing the driver to park the vehicle with minimal effort. This technology is especially useful in crowded urban environments where space is limited.
Inside, the EQS SUV 450+ offers a range of connectivity options to keep passengers entertained and connected. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, allowing for seamless integration with smartphones and access to apps and services. The vehicle also features a fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, which securely activates the driver’s personalized profile and settings, enhancing both security and convenience.
The EQS SUV 450+ is also equipped with the THERMOTRONIC automatic air conditioning system, which provides separate climate zones for the front and rear passengers. Depending on the seating configuration, the system can offer four or five climate zones, ensuring that everyone in the vehicle remains comfortable regardless of the external temperature.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Mercedes-Benz, and the EQS SUV 450+ is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants and enhance driving confidence. The vehicle features an extensive array of airbags, including front, side, rear, and head airbag systems, as well as knee airbags for the front seats and belt airbags for the rear seats. This thorough airbag coverage ensures that all passengers are well-protected in the event of a collision.
The EQS SUV 450+ also includes an array of driving aids designed to assist the driver and improve overall safety. The vehicle is equipped with LIDAR technology, which provides detailed environmental data to support various driver assistance functions. Traffic sign assistant, active lane-keeping assist, and active distance assist Distronic are among the features that help maintain safe driving distances and stay within lane boundaries.
Additional safety features include adaptive high beam assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, and pedestrian warning in areas with zebra crossings. These systems work together to prevent accidents and enhance visibility, especially in challenging driving conditions. The active emergency stop assist and active evasive steering assist functions further support the driver by providing additional safety interventions when necessary.
Mercedes-Benz has also included the PRE-SAFE® PLUS system in the EQS SUV 450+, which prepares the vehicle and its occupants for a potential collision by adjusting the seats and securing the occupants. The PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side system can raise the vehicle’s body to reduce the impact of a side collision. Together, these features demonstrate Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety and its dedication to protecting both drivers and passengers.
Legacy and Future Influence
The Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ represents a significant step forward in the evolution of electric vehicles, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and luxury. As the first luxury SUV to feature Mercedes-Benz’s advanced electric technology, the EQS SUV 450+ sets a new standard for what an electric SUV can be. Its impressive range, advanced battery technology, and luxurious features position it as a leader in the electric vehicle market.
The impact of the EQS SUV 450+ extends beyond its immediate performance and features. It serves as a benchmark for other manufacturers, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in electric mobility. The vehicle’s design, technology, and safety features set a new standard for electric SUVs, influencing future developments in the industry.
Moreover, the EQS SUV 450+ contributes to the broader goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation. By offering a luxury vehicle that does not compromise on performance or comfort, Mercedes-Benz demonstrates that electric vehicles can meet the highest standards of quality and innovation. This shift towards electric mobility is not just about embracing new technology; it is about shaping the future of transportation and creating a more sustainable world.
Similarly Priced Cars
For those considering the Mercedes EQS SUV 450+, several similarly priced alternatives offer compelling options in the luxury electric SUV segment. The Lucid Air Pure AWD, priced around €109,000, presents a strong competitor with its impressive range and cutting-edge technology. Another notable option is the Mercedes AMG EQE 53 4MATIC+, available for approximately €109,780. This model combines high performance with luxury features, making it a worthy alternative to the EQS SUV 450+. Additionally, the Porsche Taycan 4S, which competes in a similar price range, offers a sportier driving experience with advanced electric performance and luxurious amenities.
Each of these vehicles brings unique strengths to the table, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for performance, design, and features. However, the Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ stands out for its blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology, making it a strong contender in the high-end electric SUV market.
In conclusion, the Mercedes EQS SUV 450+ represents a significant advancement in electric vehicle technology and luxury, offering an exceptional driving experience that combines performance, comfort, and cutting-edge features. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the EQS SUV 450+ will undoubtedly remain a key player in shaping the future of electric mobility.