Model Tested: 2025 Mercedes EQE 500 4MATIC
Engine: Dual-motor (front and mid-mounted) electric
Transmission: Direct-drive 4MATIC
Horsepower: 402
Torque: 633
EPA ratings: 91 MPGe city, 86 MPGe highway, 89 MPGe combined
Base price: $89,500
As tested: $104,835
Overview: The Mercedes EQE 4MATIC was a new 2023 model and has only seen slight changes for 2024 and 2025 such as more standard/available features and more battery capacity. As a luxury EV it shines in the luxury department but comes up a little short in driving range. A substantial option list can push prices over the six-figure threshold.
Walkaround: The Mercedes EQE 500 is conservatively styled with a grille/front fascia treatment that looks more like a traditional gas-powered SUV than a blank wall with headlights. We liked the styling and optional 21-inch AMG alloy wheels. Fit and finish were typically excellent as expected on a Mercedes.
Interior: The interior was stylish and luxurious with excellent materials, fit/finish, and attention to details as should be expected on a six-figure luxury SUV electric vehicle. Massaging front seats were a pleasure as was the generous front legroom. Rear seat room was less but still very comfortable with a flat floor for the center position. Cargo capacity was fair.
Behind the Wheel: The electric performance was great with impressive acceleration and super easy freeway merging. Sub-five second zero-to-sixty times are sports car quick. We thought the highway ride was a little soft even with the optional AIRMATIC air suspension. We never quite adjusted to the brake pedal modulation. The EQE has four levels of brake energy regeneration. The EPA-estimated range of 264 miles made us anxious on a round trip from the Olympic Peninsula to Seattle and back.
Bottom Line: The Mercedes EQE 4MATIC is a very nice luxury electric vehicle befitting the Mercedes imprint, but we were a little disappointed by the range limitations and brake feel. We drove a Mercedes GLE 450e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid and liked it much better even without factoring its $20,000 lower price.
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