Overview

The Mercedes-Benz EQS is this prestigious German brand’s flagship electric car. Sitting alongside the conventionally powered S-Class at the top of range, it’s hard to believe that this striking-looking flagship car has already received its first raft of updates. But it’s a fast-paced automotive landscape, and in order to remain competitive, keeping on top of the tech is the only way forwards.

Unsurprisingly, the sleek aerodynamic design and heavily tech-laden interior has has been largely left alone, but a larger battery pack (more of later) brings a longer driving range. These updates are much needed, as its most direct rival, the BMW i7 is cleaning up in the luxury car market. These two rivals approach things slightly differently, however – the i7 is an electric version of the 7 Series, while the EQS uses a bespoke Mercedes-EQ electric vehicle platform.

As such, the EQS is more akin to the BMW iX SUV – in that both make their individual electric vehicle (EV) status overtly obvious via distinctive design that sets them apart from the rest of their respective ranges. So, if you’re looking for a luxury car that makes both your status and your green conscience clear, the EQS is a more noticeable choice than the i7.

Though if appearances are less important to you, perhaps you should read on for the rest of our review before rushing straight down to the Mercedes-Benz dealer.

There are two variants offered in the UK: the Mercedes-Benz EQS 350 and 450+, both of which are rear-wheel drive and come with a single electric motor. The trim levels are Premium, Premium Plus and Business Class for the 350, and AMG Line Premium, AMG Line Premium Plus and Business Class for the 450+. You can buy an AMG version, but we cover this in our separate Mercedes-AMG EQS AMG 53 review.

The specs of the EQS 450+ are certainly attractive, with its 118kWh battery pack (up from 108) promising 360hp, up to 511 miles of driving range per charge (according to WLTP testing), and a charging time of as little as 31 minutes for a 10 to 80% top-up. In our experience, however, we’ve found that none of these things quite live up to expectations, even though the real-world numbers are still very impressive.

And while the in-car accommodation is impressive, you will have to spend more than the basic price to get the maximum EQS experience – none of the regular car’s trim levels include the showcase Hyperscreen infotainment layout as standard, for example. You can find out more about this in the Interior section of this review.

Over the next few pages we’ll take you through all the pros and cons of the Mercedes-Benz EQS, including what it’s like to drive as well as to sit in, concluding with a verdict that covers whether we think it’s worth buying taking the considerable cost and some talented competitors into account. If you’d like to learn more about how we reached our decision, check out our how we test cars explainer page.