Mercedes’ E-Class sedans have long been the utility players in the automaker’s lineup, providing the Benz level of luxury with a far more affordable price tag and slightly smaller dimensions compared to the S-Class. And that doesn’t appear to be changing as Mercedes marches toward its electric future. After debuting the 2023 EQS Sedan last year, Mercedes’ EQ all-electric division has rolled out the zero-emissions E-Class alternative, the EQE Sedan.
The Mercedes EQE Sedan — there’s also an EQE SUV — is slightly smaller than the EQS Sedan, and its electric motors don’t offer quite the same level of power. However, the differences aren’t drastic, and the EQE can be had for tens of thousands of dollars less, providing, like the ICE E-Class, a smaller but more affordable alternative to Mercedes’ flagship. For those looking to go all-electric with the expected level of luxe of a Tri-Star, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE is certainly worth consideration.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE
- Model
- 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE
- Engine:
- Electric
- Power Output
- 288-402 HP
- Torque
- 391-633 LB-FT
- Range
- 260-305 Miles
- Transmission
- 1-Speed
- Driveline
- RWD/AWD
- MSRP
- $74,900
- Rich with tech features
- Quest and Comfortable Cabin
- Less Athletic than some rivals
- Controls can be difficult to use
- Limited outward visibility
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan Performance And Capability
The 2023 EQE Sedan is available in four trims, and though each rides on the same platform with a 90.6-kWh battery pack, the performance specs are unique to each model. The base EQE 350+ is motivated by a single electric motor exclusively powering the rear wheels delivering 288 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The EQE 350 4Matic uses dual electric motors on each axle for fully variable all-wheel drive. Power output remains at 288 horsepower, the same as the EQE 350+, but torque jumps to a notable 564 pound-feet.
The EQE 500 4Matic uses upgraded dual motors to deliver 402 horsepower and 633 pound-feet of torque. In keeping with Mercedes’ internal combustion lineup, there’s also a performance-oriented Mercedes-AMG EQE. As standard, it provides 617 horsepower, but with the AMG Dynamic Plus Package, the output is 677 horsepower and a whopping 738 pound-feet of torque.
The variations in power output, as expected, translate to different levels of performance. The EQE 350+ takes 6.2 seconds to go from 0-60 mph, just slightly faster than the AWD model, while the EQE 500 needs just 4.5 seconds. The AMG EQE can hustle from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds.
The different powertrains also result in diverse expected driving ranges for each model. The rear-wheel drive 350+ is the most economical of the group. The EPA has not yet released its ratings for the 2023 EQE lineup, but Mercedes claims a max all-electric range of 305 miles for the 350+ with all-wheel drive models topping out at 260 miles.
TopSpeed has yet to have a go in the new EQE Sedan, but the EQE shares many of the same positive driving dynamics as the larger EQS Sedan (we’ve tested that model and its EQS SUV sibling), namely a quiet and supremely comfortable ride. The difference, the publication states, is the EQE’s smaller footprint and lower weight translate to a much more athletic drive, furthered by its optional rear-axle steering and air suspension. It’s not quite sporty but has the poise to instill confidence.
Mercedes claims the EQE, in all trims but the AMG version, will recharge from 10 percent to fully charged in about 9.5 hours using a 240V wall box. All models are equipped with DC fast charging, which has a max input of 170kW and requires about 32 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent.
Exterior Design
It’s practically a challenging prospect to differentiate the EQE Sedan from the EQS Sedan through photos. That’s because the EQE Sedan looks nearly identical to its bigger brother, save for its smaller overall dimensions only really apparent by its shorter overhangs.
The EQE uses a cab-forward design with a sweeping overall profile with dramatically raked front and rear glass and a low greenhouse to improve its slipperiness through the air. The EQE delivers a drag coefficient of just 0.22, making it just slightly less aerodynamic than the longer EQS. As standard, the 2023 EQE is fitted with 19-inch aerodynamic wheels and recessed door handles.
Exterior Dimensions
Length | 196.9 in. |
|---|---|
Width | 82.8 in. |
Height | 59.5 in. |
Wheelbase | 122.8 in. |
Curb Weight | 5,201-5,343 lbs. |
Exterior Colors
Exterior Colors | Price |
|---|---|
Black | $0 |
Polar White | $0 |
Obsidian Black | $0 |
Graphite Grey | $0 |
Twilight Blue | $0 |
Cirrus Silver | $0 |
Selenite Grey | $0 |
Alpine Grey | $1,750 |
Moonlight White | $1,750 |
Patagonia Red | $1,750 |
Graphite Grey Magno | $3,250 |
Interior Quality And Technology
The EQS Sedan and EQS SUV are technology showcases, and the EQE Sedan delivers the same rich level of cutting-edge tech. Most notably, the EQE can be fitted with Mercedes’ Hyperscreen, a trio of beautifully colored OLED screens that stretch the entire length of the dashboard. In addition to serving as a digital gauge cluster and infotainment screen, the Hyperscreen allows front passengers to cater to a smaller screen for their own use. Still, the standard screens are just as striking.
The EQE packs plenty of creature comforts as standard, including a floating center console, heated and ventilated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, wireless charging, illuminated door sill panels, a fingerprint sensor for driver profiles, a panoramic sunroof, ambient interior lighting, and other features.
The sedan can also be decked out with a long list of options (some of which are standard on higher trims) like massaging front seats, augmented reality navigation, four-zone climate control, a head-up display, Nappa leather seating, or Mercedes’ Energizing Comfort feature, essentially a selection of relaxation programs using the sedan’s massaging seats along with ambient sounds.
No matter the trim, the EQE’s interior is rich with upmarket materials that add to its air of luxury. Passenger space is generous for those in either row, though outward visibility is slightly lacking due to the EQE’s aerodynamic shape. Its trunk will accommodate 15.1 cubic feet of storage, which is slightly more than what’s offered in the E-Class.
Interior Dimensions
Seating Capacity | 5 |
|---|---|
Headroom (front) | 40.1 in. |
Headroom (second row) | 38 in. |
Legroom (front) | 41.7 in. |
Legroom (second row) | 38.2 in. |
Shoulder room (front) | 58.9 in. |
Shoulder room (second row) | 55.9 in. |
Cargo Room | 15.1 cu.-ft. |
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan Pricing And Availability
The 2023 EQE Sedan is available now with prices starting at $74,900 MSRP for the EQE 350+ and rising to $85,900 for the EQE 500. The AMG EQE commands $106,900. The EQE’s pricing represents a significant savings over the EQS Sedan, which starts at over $104,000 with the top-spec non-AMG model commanding nearly $130,000.
2023 Mercedes-EQE Price
Trim | Price |
|---|---|
EQE 350+ | $74,900 |
EQE 350 4MATIC | $77,900 |
EQE 500 4MATIC | $85,900 |
Safety
The NHTSA has not yet rated the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan, but the model earned a five-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP test. As standard, the EQE is fitted with Mercedes’ Pre-Safe crash system, a surround-view monitor, blind spot assist and lane keep assist. Available features include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, active steering, speed limit, and blind-spot assists, and other aids.
Main Competition
Mercedes says its direct competitors for the EQE (and we won’t argue with them) are the Porsche Taycan, Tesla Model S, Audi e-tron GT, Lucid Air, and the new BMW i4. Buyers in this segment should certainly shop around as each model has its pros and cons against the competition.
Generally, the EQE is a more affordable option — the Lucid Air, Porsche Taycan, and Tesla Model S all start around $15,000 more expensive than the Mercedes. The exception is the i4, which is smaller overall but starts at just $52,995 with destination. The Taycan, e-tron GT, Air, and Model S all provide far more power than the base EQ and even its most potent, 402-horsepower iteration. For instance, the Air packs 480 horsepower in its base guise, the Audi and Porsche deliver 522 horsepower as standard, and the Tesla’s base dual-motor setup offers 670 horsepower.
Many of the Mercedes rivals also offer more driving range. The Lucid Air is the range champion, delivering over 400 miles on a single charge, just slightly ahead of the Model S. The Mercedes does deliver better-expected range than the Porsche and Audi, but again, both of those EVs offer more power.
Ultimately, the Mercedes EQE Sedan is more affordable than many of its counterparts while offering good practicality and performance with excellent technology, features, and comfort. Those looking for the ultimate in EV athleticism and range may be left wanting for more, but buyers seeking a zero-emissions midsize sedan that prioritizes luxury features and presentation are unlikely to be disappointed in Mercedes’ new midsize EV.
FAQ
Q: How much will the EQE cost?
The base model EQE 350+ Sedan starts at $74,900 excluding destination. The range-topping AMG EQE sedan costs $106,900
Q: What is the top speed of a Benz EQE?
According to CarAndDriver, the base Mercedes-EQE350+ gets from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph.
Q: What is the battery capacity of Mercedes-EQE?
The Mercedes-EQE packs a 90.6 kWh battery pack.
Q: Is EQE a 4MATIC?
All but the base model EQE sedan come equipped with a dual-motor setup, hence making the 4MATIC.
Q: What is the range of the Mercedes-EQE sedan?
The Mercedes-EQE sedan has a range between 260 to 305 miles.