Mercedes-Benz New Zealand launches EQE SUV trio

Mercedes-Benz New Zealand is launching three versions of its medium sized all-electric EQE SUV onto the market this week.

Three variants are available – the EQE 300, EQE 350 4Matic and Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4Matic+.

At 3030mm, its wheelbase is more compact than the EQE sedan on which it is based, making the EQE SUV easy to manoeuvre in the urban jungle. However, length/width/height dimensions of 4863/1940/1686mm provide spacious accommodation for up to five adults.

The boot space holds 520 litres of luggage with the back seat in place, and 1675 litres with the seats folded down into the vehicle floor.

Four-link suspension at the front and independent multi-link suspension at the rear lends a particularly agile feel. Additionally, rear-axle steering that can angle the rear wheels up to 10° to further enhance steering inputs, is standard on the EQE 53 4MATIC+ SUV and optional on other models. Rear-wheel steering also maximises low-speed manoeuvring, such as in parking situations, and reduces the turning circle of the EQE from 12.3 to 10.5metres.

Driving range of up to 539km (NEDC) can be achieved via a number of charging options including a conventional 240-volt household socket, a Mercedes-Benz Wallbox (both AC charging) an AC charge station, or via faster DC charging at rapid or ultra-rapid charging stations.

The EQE 300 SUV will be priced at $139,900. The rear-wheel-drive vehicle offers 180kW/550Nm of electric performance from an 89kWh battery pack.

All EQE SUV models are packaged with two charging cables – an eight-metre cable suitable for domestic sockets, and a five-metre cable for AC- powered public charging infrastructure.

Standard equipment for the EQE 300 includes AMG Line interior and exterior enhancements, a panoramic sliding sunroof, a head-up display, MBUX infotainment system including navigation with augmented reality, full smartphone integration and owireless charging for mobile devices, the keyless-go comfort package and easy pack tailgate, active ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a parking package including 360° camera, and a Burmester 3D surround sound system. Adding a further touch of class to the opulent interior is anthracite line structure lime wood trim paired with high- gloss black finishes.

Exterior highlights include 21-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, heat-insulating dark tinted glass, and illuminated aluminium-look running boards. The radiator grille features a veritable galaxy of stars surround the main Mercedes-Benz badge.

The EQE 350 4Matic will be priced at $149,900. 

It is powered by dual e-motors variably sending 215kW and 765Nm to all four wheels via the intuitive 4MATIC all- wheel-drive system. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in as little as 6.3 seconds.

It also adds a new feature to the EQE 300’s equipment list. Known as Transparent Bonnet, this uses a number of cameras around the vehicle to provide the driver with a precise view of the environment directly beneath and in front of the vehicle, which is typically obscured by the bonnet. 

The performance focused EQE 53 4Matic+ SUV from Mercedes- AMG offers a sportier driving experience and extra differentiation. It will be priced at $199,900.

The ’53’ provide 460kW power and 950Nm torque, equating to a 0-100km/h sprint in 3.7 seconds. Rear-axle steering is standard, as is AMG active ride control suspension with airmatic, which offers continuously adjustable damping and can raise the vehicle by 30millimetres to aid ground clearance. The AMG-tuned all-wheel-drive system offers a more performance-focused distribution of power to individual wheels, enhancing acceleration and road holding at higher thresholds.

Inside is the Mercedes-AMG interior, a Nappa leather AMG steering wheel, and heated and cooled front seats. Externally, the EQE 53 is further distinguished by a Mercedes-AMG exterior package along with AMG Night Package, plus 22-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels and red-painted brake calipers.

The EQE 53 is also protected by the standard GUARD 360° Vehicle Protection Plus package (optional on other models in the EQE SUV range), which incorporates an alarm system with tow-away protection. Drivers can also access a number of functions through the Mercedes me Connect app such as collision detection, stolen vehicle help, and emergency key deactivation.

Utilising a Mercedes-Benz Wallbox (up to 22kW output, sold separately) connected to three-phase power, it’s possible to top up battery capacity from 10 to 80% in around 6 1⁄2 hours. Meanwhile, DC charging offers the prospect of advancing charge from 10 to 80% in as little as 32 minutes using ultra- rapid charging (350kW output), or in under 1 1⁄2 hours via rapid charging (50kW output).