Mercedes EQE SUV 500 4MATIC

Overview

The Mercedes EQE SUV 500 4MATIC was a seriously plush and potent all-electric family hauler, slotting in as the E-Class equivalent in Merc’s electric SUV line-up. Though discontinued after 2023, this beast offered a compelling blend of luxury, cutting-edge tech, and punchy dual-motor all-wheel-drive performance. Its key highlights included a lavish interior and a smooth, powerful drive. As a used buy in the EU, expect prices around €80,510. It was designed to give rivals like the BMW iX a proper run for their money with its blend of comfort and capability.

What's New for 2023?

The EQE SUV was a fresh face, really hitting its stride for the 2023 model year, which also marked its final year of production for this 500 4MATIC trim. Being relatively new, it launched packed with Mercedes' latest MBUX infotainment software, including features like the 'Zero Layer' interface and enhanced voice control. Updates often focused on over-the-air improvements, refining the already slick user experience and potentially tweaking battery management. Plug & Charge capability via Mercedes me Charge also simplified public charging, making top-ups a doddle for European drivers.

Design & Exterior

This Merc rocks the brand's "Sensual Purity" design, meaning it’s all smooth surfaces and a sleek, aerodynamic "one-bow" profile that really helps it slip through the air. The EQE SUV 500 4MATIC often came kitted with stylish AMG Line exterior touches and striking alloy wheels. Up front, the signature black panel grille houses sensors, flanked by sharp LED headlights; optional Digital Light projectors are a cool party trick. Dimensions-wise, it measures 4863 mm long, 1940 mm wide (without mirrors), and 1685 mm tall, giving it a commanding yet elegant road presence.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the EQE SUV 500 4MATIC and you're greeted by a cabin that screams luxury and tech. Materials are top-notch, and the build quality is superb. Passenger space is generous for five adults, offering a truly premium travel experience. The optional MBUX Hyperscreen is a showstopper, turning the dash into a vast digital landscape, though the standard large central display is also brilliant, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Cargo-wise, you get a useful 520 litres in the boot, expanding to a massive 1675 litres with seats down. No frunk though!

Performance & Driving Experience

The EQE SUV 500 4MATIC is no slouch, mate! With dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) – one front, one rear – it boasts a stonking 300 kW and 858 Nm of torque, all fed through a grippy all-wheel-drive system. This means a rapid 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h! On the road, it's effortlessly quick and super refined. Airmatic air suspension (often standard or a popular option) ensures a cloud-like ride, while optional rear-axle steering makes it surprisingly agile. Regenerative braking is strong and adjustable.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powering this electric Merc is a hefty 90.6 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range estimate of around 439 km – pretty decent for a big SUV! Efficiency is rated at 4.85 km/kWh. For charging, it uses a CCS Type 2 port. At home, the standard 11 kW AC charger will juice it up in around 9 hours, with an optional 22 kW unit available. Out and about, it can guzzle electrons at up to 170 kW from a DC fast charger, getting you from 10-80% in about 32 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount for Mercedes, and the EQE SUV 500 4MATIC scored a top-notch 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. It's packed with clever tech to keep you safe. Standard kit usually includes Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist. The optional Driving Assistance Package Plus is well worth it, adding features like Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control) with route-based speed adaptation, Active Steering Assist, and enhanced PRE-SAFE systems, making long journeys a breeze and providing an extra pair of eyes in tricky situations.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, Mercedes typically offers a 2-year/unlimited km basic vehicle warranty, though some markets might extend this. The crucial high-voltage battery in the EQE SUV 500 4MATIC is covered for a more substantial 10 years or 250,000 km, whichever comes first, guaranteeing it retains a decent chunk (usually 70%) of its original capacity. Maintenance is simpler than a petrol car, with service intervals typically every 1 or 2 years. Mercedes also offers service packages to cover routine checks, ensuring your electric chariot stays in tip-top condition.