Mercedes EQE SUV 350+

Overview

The 2023 Mercedes EQE SUV 350+ was the smooth, rear-wheel-drive entry into Merc's then-new mid-size electric luxury SUV lineup. Positioned as a more agile sibling to the larger EQS SUV, it aimed at rivals like the BMW iX. When new, the 2023 EQE 350+ SUV started around $79,050 in the US. Though its production run under this specific configuration was brief, ending in 2023 as per records, it showcased Merc's commitment to electrifying key segments with a blend of tech and refinement, making it an interesting find on the used market.

What's New for 2023?

The EQE SUV made its grand entrance as an all-new model for the 2023 model year in the US market. This specific 350+ rear-wheel-drive variant brought Mercedes-Benz's cutting-edge EV technology, built on the dedicated EVA2 platform, to the premium electric SUV space. It essentially translated the sleek appeal and advanced features of the EQE sedan into a more practical, family-friendly SUV form factor. Its arrival signaled a significant expansion of Mercedes' EQ electric offerings, targeting a crucial and popular vehicle segment with a compelling blend of luxury and zero-emission driving.

Design & Exterior

Sporting Mercedes’ 'Sensual Purity' design language, the 2023 EQE SUV 350+ featured a sleek, wind-cheating 'one-bow' silhouette and the signature black panel front grille. Flush door handles came standard, enhancing its slippery shape, while it typically rolled on 19-inch alloy wheels. Optional Digital Light headlamps offered trick animations and precise illumination. Key dimensions for this premium ride were a length of 191.5 inches, a width (sans mirrors) of 76.4 inches, and a height of 66.3 inches, giving it a substantial yet well-proportioned stance on the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the EQE SUV 350+ offered a cabin dripping with typical Mercedes luxury and cutting-edge tech, even in this entry configuration. Standard appointments included a stunning 12.3-inch digital driver display paired with a 12.8-inch central OLED MBUX touchscreen, not the full Hyperscreen. Premium materials and customizable ambient lighting created a plush atmosphere for five occupants. Cargo-wise, you got a practical 18.4 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to a generous 59.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Alas, no frunk for extra bits and bobs up front.

Performance & Driving Experience

The 2023 EQE SUV 350+ delivered a serene punch with its rear-wheel-drive setup. Its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) produced 218 kW (that’s 292 hp) and a solid 417 lb-ft of torque, whisking it from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 6.4 seconds. True to the Benz badge, the driving experience prioritized a magic carpet ride – exceptionally smooth and whisper-quiet. While not a hardcore canyon carver, it handled tidily, with multiple regenerative braking modes allowing for efficient cruising and even one-pedal driving if you fancied.

Range, Battery & Charging

Packing a 90.6 kWh usable battery, the EQE SUV 350+ offered a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of 291 miles, with an efficiency of around 3.21 mi/kWh. For charging, its standard 9.6 kW AC onboard charger could replenish the battery overnight in about 9.5-10 hours. When you needed a quicker jolt on the go, it supported DC fast charging at up to 170 kW via its US-standard CCS Type 1 port, taking it from 10% to 80% in roughly 32 minutes under ideal conditions. Pretty handy for road trips!

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Mercedes didn't skimp on safety for the 2023 EQE SUV 350+. While specific NHTSA ratings for this trim might require a check, it earned a top 5-star rating from Euro NCAP, and the broader EQE SUV range scored a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS for 2023. Standard kit included essentials like Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and Lane Keeping Assist. For those wanting the full suite of robo-helpers, the optional Driver Assistance Package bundled advanced features like DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control with Active Steering Assist for more relaxed highway cruising.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the 2023 EQE SUV 350+ came with Mercedes-Benz's standard US warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles. Crucially for an EV, the high-voltage battery was covered for a more substantial 10 years or 155,000 miles, often with a guarantee against excessive degradation (typically 70% capacity). Powertrain components related to the electric drive were generally covered under this extended battery warranty. Unlike some rivals, complimentary maintenance wasn't a widespread standard offering, though pre-paid packages were available from dealers. As a relatively new model, long-term reliability is still being established.