After launching with the EQC, EQB and EQA SUVs, Mercedes is now focusing on electrifying its large saloons – firstly with the biggest EQS that we drove back in June, and now with the smaller EQE, E-Class-sized saloon. 

In fact, because the EQE’s dedicated EV platform is shared with the bigger EQS, it allows for different proportions – it’s bigger than the E-Class, with 181mm of extra wheelbase, and is also wider and taller.  Outside it continues the cab-forward look first seen on the EQS, although seemingly scaled down. The EQE isn’t unattractive – in fact, I think Mercedes have been quite clever defining what their EV saloons will look like already. As with the faired in grille (with neat three-pointed star pattern on the E), front quarter lights, flush door handles and curvy rear light bar – you couldn’t mistake it for a rival.  

Inside, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re sitting in the bigger EQS, with all the soft leather on the seats, the unpolished wood on the minimalist dashboard and still impressive levels of legroom in the back. Our car had the also excellent 12.8in central touchscreen, running Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system, which despite all its technology is easy to use, and the Exclusive Luxury equipment grade adds niceties such as the excellent
Burmester audio system. The driving position is comfortable and multi-adjustable, the one-piece seats are supportive and with that tall centre console, there’s useful extra stowage underneath. Move to the back, and like with the EQS, legroom levels impress – even though it’s smaller than that car. It is a wide rear seat too, with plenty of room for three adults – although the glass sunroof fitted to our test car robs headroom. With 430 litres of boot space, rivals such as the Tesla Model S and even the ICE-powered E-Class have a bigger boot – although it’s a practical space. 

As for the driving experience, it’s almost as conventional as an E-Class. You start the EQE via a button, then engage drive via the right-hand column stalk (as you would on any Mercedes model). Behind the steering wheel there are a chunky set of paddles, which work the three levels of brake recuperation – it works well, with three different stages. We found the strongest was the best for one-pedal driving, which works well in the EQE. There are also eco, comfort, sport, and individual settings; the EQE felt happiest in comfort mode, where you can make the most of the impressively composed ride.

Talking about the ride, our EQE in range-topping Exclusive Luxury spec is fitted with 21in alloy wheels as standard. Yet with air suspension also standard, this Mercedes’ ride on these large rims is no bother – remaining comfortable and compliant. Like the EQS, you feel the EQE was developed for comfort rather than dynamism. More precise steering would be welcome – you can always notice its 2.3- tonne weight in corners, equalling some body roll. Overall, in 350+ equipment grade, the EQE drives well – you might wish for a bit more driver involvement.

We had the EQE 350+, which is at the top of the EQE range, but is expected to prove popular with fleet. It has a 90kWh battery and 292hp, via the single rear motor. This means 62mph acceleration in 6.4secs and a licence-losing top speed of 134mph. However, despite decent performance, this EQE still boasts 356 miles to a charge. Talking about charging, with rates up to 200kW, the EQE doesn’t work that well with home charging. Yet, it’s still possible to go from 10-80% charge in just 32 minutes, via a 170kW rapid public charger. Owning an EQE means you sign up to MercedesMe Charge, where multiple charge companies can be accessed via a single card. You really need access to a rapid charger to make the most of the EQE, and we wish it had more character, but the EQE impresses with its high levels of refinement, comfort, and performance.

 

Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ Exclusive Luxury  

P11D: £88,395

Residual value: TBC

Depreciation: TBC

Fuel: TBC

Service, maintenance and repair: TBC

Cost per mile: TBC

Range: 356 miles

CO2 (BIK %): 0g/km (2%) 

BIK 20/40% a month: £29/£59

Luggage capacity: 430 litres

Battery size/power: 90kWh/292hp