Mercedes is in the process of launching a full range of EVs that includes everything from small hatchbacks to large SUVs. We already have their EQA, EQB, EQC, and top-of-the-class EQS with us. Now that the new EQE has arrived, think of it as an E-Class sized saloon but pure electric.
The new EQE range starts at a very high €85,980 and increases rapidly as soon as you tick the option list.
There are two variants available from launch, an EQE 350+ and an AME EQE 43 with a more powerful battery and motor.
This week my test car is the EQE 350+ AMG line.
So what does it look like?
Given my somewhat unscientific survey of those interested in the car during my tenure, opinion is somewhat divided. Sure it looks very sleek but many felt it lacked the “Mercedes” style. I guess the huge shiny plastic empty from the front end doesn’t help it in beauty pageants. Still others though it looked good. I’m not so sure. For example, I would prefer the style of the current E-Class.
How is it inside?
Anyone will be familiar with many of the elements of the cabin that have been inside any of the latest Mercedes cars and that is a good thing. It looks really great and of course the quality of everything else seems to be just right, despite the pretty cheap plastic used on the door pockets.
In front of the driver is a pretty configurable digital instrument display that includes analog style digital round instruments (one of the best out there) and a massive 13 inch central touchscreen which I must say is very intuitive to use and has great There are functionality and graphics. ,
The new EQE boasts the latest in automotive safety and luxury, the list is too long to include here but highlights include Mercedes’ latest version of the MBUX with a full genuine leather (not Artico) interior as well as sophisticated collision avoidance and driver assistance. system is included.
Overall the cabin is a lovely place to live with the beautifully styled sports seats lining their exterior edge as well as the top of the doors and an ambient light band around the dashboard. It’s really impressive and I love the illuminated turbine style air vents. Simply awesome! In terms of space, it’s very nice seating four in real comfort and five in one squeeze. The boot is also a decent size.
What’s under the bonnet?
I do not know exactly! It doesn’t open. But apart from the EQE the Humor is powered by a 90kWh battery that drives a 215kW electric motor that pushes out around 292 bhp. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a single speed auto gearbox.
The EQE has the normal instant torque we’ve come to expect from an EV and the performance feels pretty quick compared to the 6.4 second 0 to 100 km/h time on paper. Road tax for the year is €120 and although Mercedes claims a range of around 640km from 100% charge, in fact I managed closer to 525km which is excellent.
What’s it like to drive?
The heavy weight of the EV actually makes handling sluggish (when compared to the equivalent E-Class) and often compromises the ride. The EQE is no different, but I have to say this is one of the best EVs to drive.
It’s responsive, handles well and manages to hide its enormous mass most of the time. The suspension could hit a bump stop on some of the more challenging roads but this was a rare occasion in my testing. It’s also super cool and sophisticated. So overall I really enjoyed driving it!
What’s my verdict?
Quite simply the new Mercedes EQE 350+ is in my opinion the best EV currently available, none other!
Unfortunately at €85K plus this would be out of reach of many more my AMG line test car, with the options topping out at €106,404.
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