Mercedes-Benz India has been making waves with the launch of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, the unveiling of its best-seller, the new E-Class, and now the introduction of the EQS SUV 580 4Matic. With an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.41 crore, it stands as the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s EQ series. While the price may seem staggering to most, the German luxury automaker has positioned it competitively, being only slightly more expensive than the EQE, priced at Rs 1.39 crore, ex-showroom. The EQS SUV is now the second electric vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz range to be assembled in India, following the sedan model.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Design
The EQS SUV, available in the AMG Line, embodies the aerodynamic design essential to all-electric vehicles, enhancing the vehicle’s efficiency. With a drag coefficient of just 0.26 Cd, its fluid design features more curves and fewer traditional boxy elements. The EQS SUV presents itself as a modern urban vehicle rather than a rugged, muscular one with an imposing stance. Its front is marked by a closed, all-black grille, centered with a prominent Mercedes-Benz emblem, encircled by miniature three-pointed stars. Reflecting a sense of luxury, the EQS SUV boasts AMG Line exteriors, complete with a front-connected light bar and tripod LED headlights.
From the side profile, the EQS SUV displays its impressive length of 5136 mm, resting on 21-inch alloy wheels. It features an illuminated metal-finish side step board and flush door handles that enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamics and efficiency. The Mercedes-Benz electric SUV is equipped with adjustable air suspension, enabling it to navigate rough terrains with ease.
The rear design is streamlined, showcasing the distinctive LED-connected lights. The rear camera is cleverly concealed within the Mercedes-Benz insignia, which flips open upon activation
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Interiors
The EQS SUV’s cabin is a true work of art, designed with the utmost luxury in mind. It features a colossal 56-inch hyperscreen that spans the entire dashboard. This impressive display comprises two 12.3-inch screens flanking a central 17.7-inch screen. Passengers in the second row are treated to two 11.9-inch screens, complete with noise-cancelling headphones. While the centre console lacks physical controls, it includes touch buttons and a shortcut button for direct access to the ADAS settings. The EQS SUV is equipped with a five-zone climate control system, a 15-speaker Burmester sound system with Dolby Atmos, and delivers a powerful 710-watt output.
As expected, the seats have leather upholstery and offer a good lower back with decent under-thigh support. The front two seats have additional pampering functions or massage options. The second row has plenty of leg, shoulder and headroom. With a flat floor, an adult can sit in the middle seat. What was a bit surprising is that even though the front seats are ventilated, the second-row seats are heated.
Accessing the last row may be somewhat challenging since the second-row seats do not fully fold down. While the third row can accommodate two children, it is often preferable to keep it folded down to take advantage of the extensive cargo area. Additionally, the trunk is equipped with buttons that electrically fold the second row, further expanding the luggage capacity.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Performance, Ride
The EQS SUV features an all-wheel drive with dual motors, powered by a 122 kWh battery delivering 536 bhp and 858 Nm of torque. Press the accelerator, and it surges forward almost instantly. It offers three driving modes — Eco, City, and Sport — each optimizing the vehicle’s acceleration. Unlike other electric vehicles, the ride quality is smoother due to its air suspension that adapts to road conditions. Despite its rapid pace, the EQS SUV stays firmly on the road. Although it’s a heavy vehicle, it handles with surprising agility in slow traffic or when manoeuvring into tight parking spaces, thanks to the rear-axle steering that can pivot the rear wheels by up to 10 degrees.
According to ARAI, the driving range is 809 km, but Mercedes-Benz has said that in real-world driving conditions, it should offer around 600 km. With a standard 22kW AC charger, it takes 0-100 per cent charge in 6 hours and 25 minutes and with a 20 kW DC charger it juices up within half an hour.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Verdict
The EQS SUV stands out as the sole three-row electric vehicle in its class, boasting top-tier luxury features. Its unique selling points include air suspensions for a smooth ride and a real-world driving range exceeding 600 km. Priced at ₹1.41 crore, it competes directly with the BMW iX xDrive50.