Mercedes EQE 350

Overview

The 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 RWD is the German automaker's luxurious electric sedan, slotting just below the flagship EQS. It’s a tech-laden cruiser aiming to give rivals a serious run for their money. For the US market, this rear-wheel-drive variant (akin to the EQE 350+) balances efficiency with classic Mercedes refinement. Key highlights include its slippery 'one-bow' design and a serene driving experience. With a starting MSRP for the comparable US model around $74,900 when new, it offered a compelling entry into premium EV ownership, though it's now found on the used market as production ended in 2023.

What's New for 2023?

The EQE sedan made its grand entrance into the US market for the 2023 model year, so pretty much everything was 'new'! This 350 RWD variant immediately established itself with a focus on balanced performance and range. Mercedes rolled it out with their latest MBUX infotainment system and a suite of cutting-edge driver aids, though some of the flashiest tech, like the Hyperscreen, were often optional extras. For 2023, early adopters got a fresh taste of Merc's electric vision in a more accessible package than the larger EQS.

Design & Exterior

The EQE 350 boasts Mercedes' slick "one-bow" aerodynamic silhouette, looking like a slightly more compact EQS. Its front features the signature black panel, which can house various sensors, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The smooth, almost seamless bodywork helps it cheat the wind. This specific trim rides on stylish alloy wheels, fitting its premium vibe. Dimension-wise, it measures a considerable 194.7 inches in length, 75 inches wide (sans mirrors), and stands 59.2 inches tall, giving it a commanding presence on the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the EQE 350, and you're greeted by a cabin dripping with typical Mercedes luxury and high-tech flair. Quality materials abound, and the design is modern and airy. Passenger space is generous, especially up front, though rear headroom can be a tad snug for taller folks. For your luggage, there's 15.2 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to 31.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. No frunk here, though! Tech is headlined by a stunning 12.8-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch driver display, running the intuitive MBUX system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Performance & Driving Experience

The EQE 350, with its rear-wheel-drive setup, offers a refined and composed driving experience. Its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) churns out 215 kW (around 288 horsepower) and a stout 417 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a respectable 0-60 mph dash in just 6.1 seconds – plenty quick for daily duties. It’s more about smooth wafting than aggressive corner-carving, prioritizing comfort. The regenerative braking is nicely tunable, allowing for one-pedal driving if you fancy, making city driving a breeze.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powered by an 89 kWh usable battery pack, the EQE 350 RWD delivers a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of 313 miles, sipping electrons at a rate of 3.52 mi/kWh. When it's time to juice up, the standard 9.6 kW on-board AC charger can replenish the battery from empty in about 9.5 hours. For quicker top-ups on the go, it supports DC fast charging at up to 170 kW, zapping the battery from 10% to 80% in roughly 32 minutes. In the US, you'll be using a CCS Type 1 port, conveniently located.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While the NHTSA hadn't specifically rated the EQE sedan for 2023, its sibling, the EQS, scored well, and the EQE did earn a 5-star rating from Euro NCAP and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2023, hinting at its robust safety. Standard kit on US models typically included essentials like automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Buyers could often upgrade with the Driver Assistance Package, adding trick features like Distronic adaptive cruise control with active steering assist, making highway cruising an absolute doddle.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Mercedes typically backs its EVs with a solid warranty. For the EQE 350, expect a basic new vehicle limited warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles. Crucially, the high-voltage battery is usually covered for a lengthy 10 years or 155,000 miles, often guaranteeing at least 70% of its original capacity. Powertrain components related to the electric drive unit fall under these robust coverages. While complimentary maintenance wasn't always standard, EVs like the EQE generally require less scheduled upkeep than their gas-guzzling counterparts, saving you workshop time.