Mercedes-Benz EQE

Think of the first-ever EQE as a mini-me EQS that has been shrunk down to E-Class sizing but promises to be as good as its big brother. Time to uncover this theory about Mercedes's newest luxury electric sedan.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE

The first-ever Mercedes EQE, priced at 70,627 Euros plus additional costs, is basically a miniaturized version of the EQS because when you observe its design, it really is an EQS that was shrunk to E-Class sizing. That's how German luxury carmakers roll these days and this new model is no exception, no doubt about it. Despite being smaller than the EQS, the EQE is surprisingly stylish and functional at the same time, although it looks as round as an egg when you squirt your eyes hard.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE interior

When you talk about the interior, the EQE's dashboard can be configured in two ways; a tall touchscreen that works like a Tesla or the super-sized touchscreen that occupies the entire dashboard which is known as the MBUX Hyperscreen. Either way, they're both challenging to understand for speedo boys behind the wheel because of touchscreens. Troublesome the touchscreens are, not to mention the fact that no existing USB connectors are compatible because it works with USB-C ones instead of normal USBs, the spacing is where the EQE made an impression because it's surprisingly roomier than today's E-Class, even though the rear seats don't have fancy bits and bobs that ultra-luxury cars possess. The boot space is good for 430L, mind you.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE

At launch, the EQE 350+ is rear-wheel-drive as standard, and it's powered by an EM0027 electric motor that produces 292PS of power and 565Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 6.4 seconds and has a limited top speed of 210kph, which is quick enough, no doubt about it. As for range, the EQE 350+ is good for 639km on one full charge and when plugged into a public charging station, it will take about 32 minutes to reach 80% capacity.

Despite being rear-wheel-drive and its ultra-sophisticated suspension setup available, the bulk of its electric powertrain gave the EQE a mild driving feel. Although not too exciting to drive, it feels somewhat civilized and cozy to drive on a day-by-day basis. You can truly whistle while your boss is napping in the back seat.

2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 43

Those who want more should consider the pumped-up Mercedes-AMG EQE 43. While using the same 91kWh battery pack as the normal EQE, the additional electric motor gave it 4WD capability, meaning the powertrain has been boosted to 476PS of power and 858Nm of torque, this means it can go from 0-100kph in 4.2 seconds while the top speed is still 210kph. The range for this thing is good for 532km in one full charge. Despite its AMG dynamics and its 4WD layout, it still has a mild driving feel.

Keeping up with the new normal, the EQE features a high level of passive and active safety including a new microsleep warning from the ATTENTION ASSIST which detects driver drowsiness. Of course, there are plenty of high-tech safety features speedo boys may end up running scared but who cares about it.

So, the EQE may be more of a mini-me EQS but it works like it, almost. Like it or not, this new electric sedan from Mercedes deserves a lot of attention, and the world's itching to drive one someday.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG