Read Caroline’s Mercedes-Benz EQE review for everything you need to know about Mercedes’ new electric saloon in Ireland.
Mercedes-Benz is accelerating their brand towards an electric future with the launch of a suite of new electric cars and SUVs from their Mercedes EQ range of vehicles.
First to market were a new range of battery-powered SUVs – the EQC, EQA and EQB, all previously reviewed on this website.
But Mercedes-Benz has long been the purveyor of luxurious saloons and thankfully 2022 saw the arrival of two electric saloons – the flagship EQS and the EQE.
The EQE is more compact than the EQS with a shorter wheelbase. In terms of external dimensions, it’s similar to the CLS in the Mercedes-Benz range.
The new Mercedes-Benz EQE on test for Changing LanesWhat’s so special about the new Mercedes-Benz EQE?
While it could be tagged as an electric E-Class that would not do this car justice. The new EQE is a stand-out model for the brand in its own right, sporting a sleek, aerodynamic design that points to a new breed of Mercedes-Benz.
The wealth of technology underneath can see the EQE cover over 600 kilometres on a single battery charge.
The EQE goes on sale in Ireland priced from €82,010. All version come with a 89kWh battery but vary in power and driven wheels. The entry into the range is the EQE 300 with 245hp, while the EQE 350 on test offers 292hp and 4Matic four wheel drive.
Styling is sleek for aerodynamic efficiency including flush door handles for a smooth silhouette. The EQE sports a futuristic front end in line with other Mercedes EQ models. It’s smart and subtle – a good evolution for the brand towards an electric future.
Various trim lines are available like Electric Art and AMG Line, which alter the look of the car slightly. 19-inch alloy wheels come as standard.
But it’s inside where the EQE really shines, with an avant-garde interior that is beautifully appointed.
The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz EQEInside the new Mercedes EQE
Mercedes-Benz interiors are maturing, with a strong digital component to every new model launched. The new EQE takes inspiration from the larger EQS, though the brand’s impressive new MBUX Hyperscreen is not yet available here in the EQE.
The EQE might be electric, but Mercedes has not scrimped on quality and the EQE feels suitably posh inside with lots of beautiful, tactile materials used to create just the right ambience for a high-tech electric saloon. Heated front and rear seats come as standard, as does a wireless phone charger.
There’s also a full digital display for the driver and a gorgeous MBUX portrait-style touchscreen that we’ve seen in some other models like the newly-launched Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The interior dimensions are a bit bigger than the current E-Class with a bit more shoulder room and a slightly higher driver position. In the back there is enough legroom for adult passengers, though headroom feels tighter than an E-Class. The boot capacity is 430 litres, which is a bit less than an E-Class – but the saloon-style opening means neither car offers the most practical boot shape.
The EQE is available from about €82,000 in IrelandDriving the new EQE
On the road the new EQE shines for both refinement and electric driving range. The EQE 350 offers a smooth delivery of power and rides exceptionally well, making it the perfect long distance cruiser.
It’s responsive and agile, though a BMW i4 is a more engaging drive when the roads get a little tighter and more interesting.
Mercedes’ battery technology and the EQE’s efficiency also make it a great choice of premium electric car. All versions of the car can post a driving range in excess of 500 kilometres on a full battery charge. The EQE proved to be one of the most efficient EVs I’ve driven in a while, with consumption averaging at 17 kwh per 100 kilometres.
AC charging is available up to 11kW, while DC fast charging is available up to 170kW.
Rear seating in the EQEDid you like it?
These days we tend to see more electric SUVs hitting the roads than electric saloons, but the EQE’s aerodynamic design certainly proves to be very efficient and desirable.
Over the coming months an SUV bearing the EQE badge is expected for those that prefer a more rugged design and high driving position.
Mercedes-Benz is famous for executive saloons so there’s a lot riding on this EQE. Its beautiful sleek design is enough to garner it a few fans and Mercedes is successfully moving their brand into this new era of electric mobility.
For an EQE that may live on the motorway, the combination of fast charging capability and an excellent driving range makes it a reliable companion.
Inside, the EQE provides a cabin design that will not isolate the brand’s current customer base, such is the quality of the finish and the ease of use of the technology on board.
The Mercedes-Benz EQE is an exclusive car but ticks so many boxes for buyers looking for a high-end luxury electric car.
The EQE offers comfort, refinement and excellent battery performanceModel tested: Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 AMG Line
Price: €85,980
Battery: 89 kWh
Range: 641 km (WLTP)
Power: 292hp
Torque: 565Nm
Top speed: 210 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 6.4 seconds
Motor Tax: €120 per year
____________________________
Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year