The EQS SUV sits atop the brand’s electric SUV lineup, offering plenty of power and the ability to carry up to seven people in luxury. It competes against the Audi Q8 E-Tron, BMW iX, Rivian R1S, and Tesla Model X.
The three-row EQS SUV pushes Mercedes into the EV segment with distinct looks, lots of space, ready power, and the latest in interior and safety technology. It earns a high TCC Rating of 8.2 out of 10. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
After debuting for the 2023 model year, the 2024 EQS SUV has been tweaked to improve its range and driving experience. A larger 118-kwh battery pack, the addition of a heat pump, and front-wheel disconnect for the all-wheel-drive system increase range, which Mercedes says tops 300 miles, though final 2024 EPA figures aren’t yet available. The braking system has been revised for improved feel. Mercedes also added more standard equipment, and made minor paint and trim changes.
The EQS SUV uses the same skateboard platform and powertrain as the EQS sedan, and both sit atop Mercedes’ EV lineup. The EQS SUV cuts a distinct shape from Mercedes’ other seven-passenger SUV, the gas-powered GLS-Class. It’s more rounded and has a more wagon-like profile. It’s also more aerodynamic with flush door handles and wheel designs. It’s four inches shorter than the GLS but its three-inch-longer wheelbase aids interior space.
The cabin is dominated by the Mercedes Hyperscreen, which covers the whole face of the dash and has 56 inches of screens for the instrument cluster, infotainment system, and even the front passenger. It flashes information and light at passengers, and the light show is further aided by standard ambient lighting. It sits within a meticulously crafted cabin lined with leather, metal, and wood.
Standard seating is for five, and a two-passenger rear seat is an option. Four adults will fit comfortably, and seven can too, provided nobody is so tall that they demand extra legroom. Cargo space is plentiful, too, but Mercedes misses an opportunity by foregoing a front trunk.
Mercedes offers the EQS SUV as the single-motor 450+, and dual-motor 450 4Matic, 580 4Matic, and Maybach 680 models. Both 450 models make 355 hp, but the torque rises from 419 lb-ft in the 450+ to 590 lb-ft in the 450 4Matic. The 580 model makes 536 hp and the Maybach 680 takes it up to 649 hp. All models deliver their power smoothly, and 0-60 mph times range from 4.1-6.5 seconds.
Range ratings should exceed the 2023 ratings of 285-305 miles. A 400-volt electrical architecture allows the EV to fast charge at up to 200 kw, which takes it from 10- 80% in 31 minutes according to Mercedes. A Level 2 outlet requires 12.5 hours to charge to full from 10%.
The EQS SUV is heavy, given its size and large battery pack. However, a standard air suspension, adaptive dampers, and rear-wheel steering with up to 10 degrees of rear angle helps it drive smaller than its size and weight, which tops out over 6,000 pounds. It’s stable through turns, agile in a parking lot thanks to the rear steering, and rides comfortably.
Mercedes loads up the EQS SUV with safety equipment, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, blind-spot monitors with steering assist, automatic parking and lane changes, and a surround-view camera system.
How much does the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV cost?
The 450+, 450 4Matic, and 580 4Matic models each offer Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle trim levels, and the line-topper is the new Maybach EQS 680 SUV. The EQS 450+ starts at $105,550, including a $1,150 destination fee. Pricing ranges up to $181,050 for the Maybach model.
Where is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV made?
In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with the EQE SUV and the gas-powered GLE and GLS SUVs.
