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The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV is the first electric SUV that the German manufacturer's performance division will bring to market. With more than 600 horsepower under the hood, this electric SUV is not just a pretty face; it's a powerhouse on the road, offering a thrilling driving experience.
People rightfully ask, why so much power in an electric SUV because they say they aren't going to take their SUV for racing. Well, AMG's raison d'être is power and handling. It is therefore performance that dominates the landscape of this model. The question we must ask ourselves is: is this the right direction to take for the future of electric vehicles? It's all about trial and error and AMG is all about performance. Time will tell if this was the right solution.
Not many electric SUVs pack a punch like the EQE. It's got serious muscle, competing with cars like the 610-horsepower BMW iX M60 and the super-fast Tesla Model X Plaid.
Trims and Pricing
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV comes in two main flavors: the base EQE53 and the feature-packed EQE53 Pinnacle, which has its own packages.
Starting at $109,300 the the base trim offers a ton of luxury features, making it a compelling choice even at its base price. The optional equipment and added packages on the Pinnacle trim up the ante to $137,200 according to the vehicle's monronney.
Both trims offer exhilarating performance and stunning design, so the choice ultimately comes down to your desired level of luxury. Remember, even the base model packs a serious punch.
Performance and Electric Motor's Power
Buckle up, because this electric SUV packs a serious punch. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV comes with all-wheel drive and two electric motors, offering a staggering 617 horsepower and 701 lb-ft of torque in its standard form. That's even more muscle than the mighty BMW iX M60.
The AMG Dynamic Plus package unleashes a jaw-dropping 677 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. I don't recommend it. It launches from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. But hey, not everyone needs their hair blown back all the time. Different driving modes let you choose your flavor:
- Slippery: Dialed down to 308 horsepower for cautious cruising.
- Comfort: Relaxed ride with 493 horsepower for smooth sailing.
- Sport & Sport+: Unleash the full 677 horsepower (with Dynamic Plus) for adrenaline-pumping thrills.
Exterior
In terms of aesthetics, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV has the same design as the 350 4MATIC and 500 4MATIC versions, with a few differences. First, the front of the vehicle gets a reworked fascia that incorporates a sportier bumper. Then, the closed grille incorporates vertical bars, reminiscent of the Panamericana present on other AMG vehicles. In my humble opinion, I find that this little touch gives the vehicle a much more successful appearance than the smooth closed grille present on other EQE SUVs. Still at the front, it is possible to note the presence of the AMG emblem on the hood.
In profile, the AMG EQE displays very few differences other than the choice of 21 or 22-inch wheels exclusive to the AMG version. As for the rear part, it is in continuity with the profile, since there are not a lot of elements that significantly distinguish the AMG model from the others other than a small emblem.
As for the general lines of the vehicle, they are content to be fluid and rounded to achieve the best aerodynamics to promote good autonomy. This is also a feature included on the Mercedes-Benz EQE, the sedan counterpart of the vehicle.
Interior Space and Infotainment
The interior is barely different from that of the more ordinary EQE sedan, with the exception of a few elements specific to the AMG approach. We notice superior quality for materials such as the Artico leather sports seats with AMG emblem. You can choose real Nappa leather, as an option.
If you like music, the Dolby Atmos audio system is standard and offers quality sound. You get even better with the Burmester chain which offers sound worthy of a concert hall.
The rear seats are correct, without being generous. The cargo volume varies from 580 to 1675 liters if you fold down the rear seats.
One of the strengths of this AMG electric SUV that I particularly appreciated is the technological side present on board. Indeed, the vehicle I tested was equipped with the MBUX Hyperscreen system. This includes a trio of high-resolution screens, including one in front of the driver for the instrumentation, one in the center which includes everything related to infotainment, navigation, climate control and various other functions of the vehicle. The third and not least is located in front of the passenger and allows him to control various functions, to have data on the vehicle while driving and, even, to listen to films, without even harming the driver.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV keeps you entertained with a cutting-edge infotainment system. Inside, you'll find a massive 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen that responds to both your touch and voice commands. It runs Mercedes' user-friendly MBUX software, letting you control navigation, music, climate, and more.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps on the go. As I said above, if you're looking for an immersive audio experience, the Burmester sound system is sure to impress.
Charging and Range
In my week of testing, I charged the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV about three times as I did a lot of driving. After a full charge, my dashboard showed 255 miles of range. One morning it was freezing cold and I lost about 15 percent of range as the system had to work harder to keep the vehicle warm. Then, when I turned off the air conditioning I saw a gain of about 25 miles of extra range. Your numbers may vary depending on your driving style.
I used Electrify America charging, which promised 350kw speed. However, it never was faster than 110kw. And remember, after your vehicle is charged to 80% your charging speed drops. This is the case with all electric vehicles. Overall the charging was pretty fast, I was pleased with it. One time I used the time to take a walk, and another time I used it to do some work on my smartphone. I noticed other people who were charging, they were also doing some work in their cars using their phones or notebooks.
The vehicle comes with a 9.6 kW charger for slower, overnight charging at home. So, while you might not be able to cross the country without a stop, the EQE SUV offers enough range and convenient charging options for most everyday adventures.
The Drive
Once on the road with the 2024 AMG EQE SUV in city traffic, you feel like you are on board a large electric vehicle. In normal driving mode, you can hear almost no external noise on board, in short a silent ride, thanks to the good level of soundproofing. However, when you turn the small dial on the steering wheel and activate one of the sport modes, the vehicle transforms. An engine sound is then transmitted through the vehicle's speakers, and the power increases a notch.
Regarding the driving safety, there are anti-roll bars for each wheel. Each is connected to an actuator which optimizes the suspension travel depending on the road condition to maximize comfort and also helps the chassis behave better on winding roads.
My Question To Sporty EV Carmakers
You know, since gasoline cars existed, carmakers have always found a way to increase power, but is this approach appropriate with an electric model? Is it worth to add so much power to a luxry SUV at the cost of range and bumpt the price to $130,000? Instead of trying to go faster and use up the battery more quickly, I think we should first find a way to go further, to maximize autonomy before thinking about going faster and less far. A performance approach still seems incompatible with the primary purpose of an electric vehicle. But this is my personal opinion. Do you agree? Please let me know your thoughts in the comments section below for discussion.
This vehicle has a lot of good strong points. It has a strong technological content, offers a comfortable driving and impressive hyperscreen display. But keep in mind that this is the first year model, and it's best test-drive and see it yourself before making your verdict on the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.
Reference: RPMWeb, Auto123, Car and Driver.
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