“The Face of Modern Luxury“
The car landscape of the early 21st century has been dominated by the SUV, overshadowing the traditional sedan as an option for most families and car buyers. Entering the 2020s, the SUV market is now being infiltrated by the electric SUV. The luxury SUV market has been slower to adopt electric vehicles, and only in the last couple of years have we seen the likes of the German three present viable offerings. While hybridization in this luxury segment has been around for some time, in the form of PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) and HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles), the full BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) has been less prevalent (please excuse my heavy use of acronyms).
Mercedes was the first of the three to launch an electric SUV, starting with the EQC in 2018/2019. Fast forward to 2023, and we see the introduction of the EQE, the larger sibling of the EQC and the BEV version of the class-leading Mercedes GLE. Positioned as a midsize electric SUV, the EQE enters 2024 with revised technical upgrades over previous EQ models, such as a heat pump HVAC system, better regenerative braking, and the ability to shut down the front motor for increased range.
The EQE 500, the range-topping model, comes complete with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels with black accents. It features the signature EQ star-pattern front grille. Overhangs are minimal, and the entire body has a wind-cutting sleekness. The body lacks protrusions and edges, making for smooth, pleasing lines. Sitting on the 21-inch wheels gives the EQE 500 an aggressive, sporty stance, while its wider shoulders and rear haunches contribute to a somewhat muscular stance.
To match the muscular characteristics, the EQE 500’s dual electric motors produce 300 kW of combined power, with 404 hp and 633 lb-ft of torque. The range is an estimated 402 km, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds. Behind the wheel, the EQE feels planted and corners flat. However, you always sense its 2,404 kg (5,300 lbs) curb weight.
The interior of the EQE is pure Mercedes refinement. You are surrounded by fine Napa leather and the EQ series-exclusive Hyper Screen, which presents the driver and passenger with essentially a full digital dashboard. The seats provide ample support and plush comfort and have the option for Multicontour Seats that offer multiple massage modes and adjustability. The rear seats provide ample legroom, even for adults over six feet tall.
For all this eco-friendly luxury, your pocket will need to be considerably unburdened, with an as-tested price of nearly $118,000 CAD, before taxes and delivery fees. However, you must appreciate that at this price point, you are truly receiving a luxury vehicle—not one to be confused with luxury merely because you paid in excess of $100K. Even after a few minutes inside the EQE 500, you will notice that the fit and finish, technology, and materials all exude luxury and justify the price point.
