11 July 2024
Last year Mercedes-Benz launched a new range of electric SUVs carrying the EQE and EQS badges. This was slightly confusing as these nameplates were also used for their electric sedans (and both share the same build platform).
Name-sharing aside, the EV SUVs heralded a new era for the luxury brand. They incorporate elegant design, sophisticated tech and some useful new features.
The AMG headline act for the SUV lineup, the EQE-53, was absent from the initial launch, although whispers of this 460kW, 950Nm beast captured our attention.
We finally got our hands on the 53, and safe to say our real-world testing matched the pre-launch hype.
Switching a generation of AMG V8 customers to an EV was never going to be a simple task. AMG still offers a traditional fire breathing V8 twin-turbo SUV, giving the established customer base an opportunity to make a gradual transition. The recently launched GLE 63 V8 4.0 is a case in point.
However, keeping the V8 running may require shares in a petrol station. On the flipside, the EV costs just a few bucks a day in electricity (plus those pesky RUCs from now on).
Ironically, for all its glorious chest beating roar, the V8 option would come second in a drag race with the EQE. On paper, 0-100km for the GLE V8 is 3.9 seconds while the electric EQE is capable of 3.5 seconds (using Race Start mode increases power to a whopping 505kW, 1,000NMm). If raw power is your deciding factor, the electric option takes the win.
56-inch dashboard Hyperscreen
If high tech is the decider, the scales may also tip to the EV. Ambient illumination, intelligent driver aides and a 56-inch dashboard Hyperscreen work together to showcase a spectacular interior package. It is slightly overwhelming at first, but for regular AMG drivers, tech excess is just part of the brand’s hallmark.
Our model featured the AMG Dynamic Plus Package, a $7,400 option. One highlight is a ‘brief’ power and torque increase in Race Start mode. It’s hard to imagine using this feature anywhere but a drag strip, considering the vehicle weighs nearly three tonnes (we weren’t brave or silly enough to try it on public roads).
Another feature that held our fascination was the AMG Sound Experience. In Sport Plus drive mode, an ‘emotionally charged sound backdrop’ resonates through the bass actuator and speakers in perfect crescendo with acceleration.
The best way to describe it is a simulated neutron sound akin to the light bikes in the Tron movies. If you know, you know. Mercedes calls the sound ‘Vivid Flux.’ A Warning: the soundscape is highly addictive. Regular music listening took a back seat during our drive, as we became absorbed in this futuristic ear candy.
For a heavy SUV, the EQE is uncannily agile. Adaptive dampening air suspension and rear axle steering are AMG standard fare. Shifting through the five drive modes, from Comfort to Sport Plus will adjust grip and throttle response. For a tall, heavy SUV, body roll is minimal thanks to the Active Ride Control system distributing firmness depending on road surface and speed.
Rear Axle Steering angles the rear wheels up to 10° reducing the amount of tar seal needed for a 360-degree turn. It’s much more than a gimmick; tight parking spaces are no longer a white-knuckle affair, in fact, the more challenging the space the better. It’s an incredibly useful feature, especially with inner city car parks favouring slender automobiles.
Overall, the AMG is an extraordinary piece of engineering with the only head scratching part being the exterior design. But this is purely subjective, of course. AMGs have traditionally followed the muscular aesthetic, with hints of a ‘don’t mess with me’ attitude. For example, the AMG GT Black Series is a timeless design masterpiece that would turn any head. The EQE 53 SUV doesn’t look like it’s from the same family, even with the monstrous 22” multi spoke wheels. It’s a more distinguished façade, less menacing and with less wow factor.
Aerodynamic body
There is a rationale, of course. EV design prioritises better aerodynamics, so fewer boxy angles mean a better drag coefficient, which equates to better battery range. The EQE’s drag is a mere 0.26, which is quite notable considering it’s a tall SUV (the EQE is taller, wider, and longer than a Tesla Model Y, which has a drag of 0.23).
This is AMG’s first iteration of an EV in the SUV format. The design arc that follows will forge a new personality for its range of performance EVs. Balancing the transition of loyal petrol fans with engagement of prospective EV adopters will be a tricky path to navigate.
The Verdict
The AMG EQE 53 4Matic+ SUV offers a truly immersive driving experience with more tech, power, and opulence than its petrol-breathing cousins. AMG’s muscular design pedigree takes a back seat to a more aerodynamic design, but make no mistake, this EV is a compelling bit of kit.
Price with Standard Equipment $201,900
More info: https://www.mercedes-benz.co.nz/passengercars/models/suv/eqe/amg.html
Article by Avon Bailey
Avon has spent three long decades doing everything there is to do in the car universe, from the car auction podium to wrenching on a race car team, he has seen it all. He brings an open mind and a sharp pencil to give an honest review of anything with four wheels.