Yesterday, Mercedes surprised by a deliberate guerrilla action, which the organizers of the Paris Motor Show (October 17-23) did not particularly like. Officially, the German manufacturer is staying away from the Paris auto show Mondial. But yesterday evening, Mercedes took advantage of the presence of journalists at the show and unveiled the new EQE SUV at the Rodin Museum in Paris the day before the show started.
Mercedes marketing managers may be knowledgeable, but not particularly creative. Like its older brother, the EQS SUV, the new crossover in the EQE series is called the EQE SUV for short. And just like the EQS SUV, the more compact EQE SUV looks nicer than the sedan, with a more imposing front and tapering aero rear.
Wide range of services
Technically, the 4.86-metre-long EQE SUV is closely related to EQS models based on the same electric platform and EQE sedan. The entry-level variant is rear-wheel drive with 292 hp (215 kW). But significantly more interesting variants for Swiss customers will likely be the equally powerful all-wheel drive EQE 350 4matic or the EQE 500 with 408 hp (300 kW) and 858 Nm of torque. And if that’s not enough, you can opt for the sporty AMG versions with 476 hp (350 kW) or 687 hp (505 kW) and 1000 Nm. Meanwhile, for the most powerful AMG variant, the EQS SUV has a much-missed roll stabilization.
The chassis of the EQE SUV comes with electronic shock absorbers ex works, which can be expanded to include air suspension if desired. This not only provides additional comfort, but also provides up to three centimeters more ground clearance at the touch of a button. Also available as an option is rear axle steering, which reduces the turning circle from 12.5 to 10.7 meters with a turning angle of up to ten degrees, making the transition considerably easier.
Range of 480 to 590 kilometers
The 90.6 kWh battery pack in the underbody allows a range of up to 480 kilometers for the AMG variants to 590 kilometers for the entry-level model. To optimize consumption, the front axle of all-wheel drive versions is completely closed when additional traction is not required. It can be charged at a fast charging station with a maximum of 170 kilowatts, which increases the battery’s range by 220 kilometers after 15 minutes. AMG versions travel at least 170 kilometers at the same time.
In addition to the various drive programs, the recovery, as with other EQ models, can be adjusted via the steering wheel paddles up to maximum deceleration, called one-pedal feel.
More compact but more headroom
The EQE SUV offers the familiar in the cockpit: comfortable seats and, if desired, a powerful hyper-display with passenger display. The electric crossover can also be optionally equipped with multiple driver assistance systems. Updates are installed over the air so the software is always up to date. The EQE SUV also wants to score points with its area. The EQE SUV is also very comfortable to sit in, although it has a wheelbase of nine centimeters (3.03 m) less than the sedan. Rear-seated adults in particular will appreciate the additional headroom. The trunk swallows from 520 to 1675 liters, all-wheel drive versions can tow trailers weighing up to 1.8 tons.
Conclusion: If EQS is primarily prestige and flagship models for Mercedes, then the EQE variants below, and especially the SUV on the sales front, should make the public feel the Mercedes chassis. At what price and from when is not yet known.