2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

Everyone is getting in on the EV game, and while luxury automakers have been a bit slow to make their presence known in this emerging market, they are making a huge splash right now. Mercedes has released an entire EQ range to mirror its gas lineup. Like almost every other model, the 2023 EQE SUV is brand-new. It competes in the midsize luxury segment with the likes of the BMW iX and Audi e-tron but has just 288 horsepower to work with in entry-level guise, although the EQE 500 has a much more useful 402 hp on tap. It employs similar styling elements to the rest of the EQ range, including the EQE and EQS sedans, to which it is related. As such, you can expect a plush suspension setup, available 4Matic all-wheel drive, and all the latest tech. But is more of the same with a bit of electrification going to be enough for the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV to stand up against more innovative EV startups?

The starting price of a new 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is quite high at $77,900, but this is par for the course with luxury EVs. What is surprising, though, is that both the regular 350+ with RWD and the 350 4Matic with AWD cost the exact same. Only the 500 4Matic is more expensive, at $89,500. These prices are for the base Premium sub-trims; upgrading to the Exclusive sub-trim on any model adds $2,100 to the bill, while the Pinnacle increases this to $5,750. These prices for the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV are MSRP and do not include tax, registration, or the $1,150 destination charge.

Mercedes has never gone too seriously for high performance on its mainstream models, instead preferring to focus on comfort, luxury, and driveability. This ethos seems to hold true for the EQE SUV. That is not to say it can't be a pleasure to drive, especially if you opt for the more powerful 500 4Matic, but there is not a whole lot of feeling or engagement. The steering is well-weighted for a heavy SUV, which gives you the confidence to hustle it, though it doesn't really appreciate it and doesn't feel at ease attacking corners.

However, its ride quality is unquestionable, with even large bumps in the road unable to upset the cabin. And combining this placid character with the totally silent drivetrain might be enough to convince some passengers that they aren't moving at all. At least, that would be the case if Mercedes didn't insist on injecting some fake sounds for the lack of engine noise. Thankfully it isn't just some synthetic rumbling but rather a selection of sound effects that could be described as either serenely natural or blatantly extroverted.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is the result of years of work by one of the world's most accomplished automakers, so it shouldn't come as a shock that it's an excellent vehicle. However, this isn't a segment that the German brand has had a century to master, and earlier entrants to the market or those who have started up with nothing but EVs in mind are proving to be extremely stiff competition. Lucid, for example, has set out to be the benchmark by which we judge all luxury EVs. Nevertheless, Mercedes has made a solid first attempt with its line of EQ vehicles, which lean on that century of experience to deliver master-crafted cabins, stylish looks, and an understanding of what buyers are looking for in terms of comforts and features. Filling out the line between the entry-level EQB and flagship EQS, the EQE works as a seamlessly powerful and comfortable family hauler that will make a significant statement as you shift from gas-powered cars to what will inevitably be the future of the automotive industry.

It can come as a surprise when you first review the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV lineup since there are now sub-trims that we have not seen in other models. There is little reason not to opt for the 350 4Matic since it costs the same as the base model and gives you the added grip and confidence that comes with AWD. You also benefit from better low-down acceleration with its increased torque output. Considering this is not a car meant to be driven fast and loose, there isn't a pressing need to upgrade to the 500 4Matic. As for the new sub-trims, even the base-level Premium gives you a lot to work with, but the additional driver assists in the Exclusive are appealing to those that want to best enjoy the laidback luxury nature of this electric cruiser.