Even those auto enthusiasts not normally a fan of EVs may change their minds after a spin in this electric rocket from the Mercedes-AMG camp.
One of the better-looking electric examples from the German luxury manufacturer, the EQE 4MATIC+ Sedan features a shorter wheelbase than bigger brother the EQS, slick body aero, rear truck lip spoiler, and flush-mounted wheels up to 21-inches. This all helps the vehicle appear a little less egg-shaped than the rest of the EQ lineup, particularly when sprayed in darker colours like the stealthy Obsidian Black Metallic paint.
One of the better-looking electric examples from the German luxury manufacturer, the EQE 4MATIC+ Sedan features a shorter wheelbase than bigger brother the EQS, slick body aero, rear truck lip spoiler, and flush-mounted wheels up to 21-inches. This all helps the vehicle appear a little less egg-shaped than the rest of the EQ lineup, particularly when sprayed in darker colours like the stealthy Obsidian Black Metallic paint.
"The compact format of the EQE forms the perfect starting point for realizing a highly agile and very emotional driving experience with our AMG-specific solutions. This applies in particular to the areas of drive, chassis, brakes and, above all, sound. This ensures that our customers can also look forward to our brand's hallmark Driving Performance in our second all-electric model series," says Jochen Hermann, Chief Technical Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, in a news release.
The interior is dominated by the optional MBUX Hyperscreen (+ $9,900) that combines the instrument cluster and two infotainment screens into a massive 56-inch screen. A high level of comfort and generous use of luxury materials is on brand, and the Pinnacle Trim Package (+ $5,000) equipped on our press loaner added the Air Balance System (dual charcoal filters, ionizer and fragrance), head-up display, six 100-watt USB-C charging ports around the cabin and more. Curiously, the heated steering wheel must be activated by voice control as there’s no physical switch.
Audiophiles will appreciate the high-end German Burmester stereo, which also powers the aforementioned AMG Sound Experience generating a variety of whimsical spaceship sounds depending on the current drive mode selected and throttle position. The second row is fairly roomy for the segment, and compared to many fixed-glass-roof EVS the panoramic sunroof is actually capable of tilt and slide functionality to bring in some fresh air on a clear day. The sporty sloped roof unfortunately reduces the rear window to a sliver.
Under the bodywork are two electric motors, totalling 460 watts, creating all-wheel drive and a combined output of 617 horsepower and a massive 701 lb-ft of torque. A 328-volt high-capacity battery supplies the propulsion energy and yields a maximum drive range in the neighbourhood of 500 kilometres per full charge. Compatible with Level 3 chargers up to 170 kilowatts, if plugged into such a station up to 180 kilometres of travel distance can be added in approximately 15 minutes.
When activated, a RACE START mode temporarily bumps up the numbers to 677 and 738 lb-ft torque for a short burst of performance. Needless to say, the EQE Sedan is seriously quick and the acceleration is literally breathtaking when you step hard on the pedal. Big six-piston brake calipers slow things back down quickly.
Thanks to 3.6-degree rear-axle steering, it’s quite nimble too in city driving and provides compact-car-like turning radius making parking much easier.
The 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 4MATIC+ Sedan retails for an MSRP of $121,500.
Highlights:
MSRP: $136,400 (as tested)
Motor: dual electric
Horsepower: 617 (net)
Torque (lb-ft): 701 (net)
Gearbox: single-speed automatic
Layout: front/rear motors, all-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 29.4 kWh/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)