Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+, the sedan of the future
Mercedes continues to reduce the EQ range dedicated to electric cars. The EQE is the ion-powered equivalent of the E-Class. We tried, we loved… by Philippe Guillaume
What is this ?
We know how it works in Mercedes: there is an EQ prefix and the following letter indicates the range level. Among the Germans, the E-Class is a well-known sedan, an excellent tourer with proven reliability, appealing to taxi drivers as well as liberal professionals looking for a serious and legitimate car. If the E-Class continues its career with multiple engines under the hood, Mercedes adds its 100% electric equivalent: the EQE.
What exactly is new?
Everything, of course! Moreover, in terms of appearance, our EQE is more inspired by its big sister EQS (we already told you about it) than by connecting with the E-Class, which is close in size (4.94 m). but their volumes are different. However, the EQE’s proportions are decent, with a length of 4.95m but a wheelbase of 3120mm, space on board is huge”. Its aerodynamic lines give it an exceptional Cx of 0.22, which promises good energy efficiency, an important benchmark for an electric car. Our test version, in black and AMG, had a hell of a boot, carefully tucked into the trunk, with nice wheels and a rear spoiler. The same feeling inside, with a dashboard that combines qualities!
It’s both modern and classy, with beautiful wood paneling. Note that as an option, certain versions of the EQE can adopt a hyperscreen, that is, a combination of three digital panels covering the entire 1.41 meter wide dashboard. The effect is amazing, especially the ability to watch Netflix during charging phases. Let’s not forget that the “hey Mercedes” voice command is simply the best on the market because it can even tell you a joke. In any case, a premium atmosphere is guaranteed!
And under the hood?
Of course, only electric motors. EQE is available in three versions: 300 (245 hp) and the top of the line 53 AMG 4Matic+ (625 hp), amazing power! In turn, we had the 350+ intermediate version in the test, powerful and promising with 292 hp, theoretically more than 600 kilometers of autonomy. On the battery side we are at 90.5kW, a comfortable capacity…
And driving, what does it look like?
We have already mentioned the quality of the interior, and it is important to remember this. Against the all-plastic look of the Tesla, the sleek, techno and sleek side of the EQE makes a huge difference and instantly gives you a sense of well-being that lets you cruise through the miles. the greatest silence. Moreover, many people think of electric cars as batteries on wheels, all the same and soulless. So let’s praise the quality of the EQE’s chassis tuning here: between the precise and silky aspects of the suspension (especially with the air suspension option), the brilliant precision of the steering, the consistency of the steering wheel reminds us of this. Driving can remain a pleasure! The same goes for the four-level brake regeneration, which is controlled by paddles on the steering wheel and offers a pretty exceptional feel.
If this is the electric car of the future, we’re all for it, because it’s extremely rewarding to be behind the wheel. When installed perfectly, you benefit from realistic operating silence and a high-quality Burmeister sound system. 292bhp doesn’t offer the dragster acceleration of some electric cars, but 565Nm of torque allows for fast overtaking at the biggest rest. On the autonomy side, it was claimed that winter testing made it impossible to reach about 600 kilometers with headlights, windshield wipers, heating system and radio. Let’s say I did 25kWh on a daily basis and was able to get down to 22kWh when traveling at a reasonable speed, a total of about 350km winter distance. Fortunately, the EQE can benefit from charging at fast terminals with up to 170 kW charging power at the respective edges. Finally, the EQE could benefit from rear-wheel drive: despite its considerable size, it steers like a city car!
His strong point?
The steering, the suspension, the quality of the interior, the feeling of the perfect driving position, EQE gives a real driving pleasure.
Judgment of the case
Futuristic lines, a very attractive interior atmosphere, a real driving pleasure, the new Mercedes EQE shows to what extent the large premium electric sedan is already a very perfect car.
Key figures
Motor: electric
Displacement: – cm3
Power: 292 hp
Torque: 565 Nm
Gearbox: continuous
Weight: 2365 kg
Maximum speed: 210 km/h
0-100 km/h: 6.4 seconds
Official / test consumption: 16.1 kWh / 100 / 23 kWh / 100
Price: EQE starts at €76,250
