Mercedes-Benz EQE300 SUV Review: A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons
The automotive industry has been undergoing a significant shift towards electric vehicles, and Mercedes-Benz has been no exception. With increasing competition in the EV market, the EQE300 has emerged as a sought-after model. But does it live up to the hype? In this in-depth review, we’ll take a closer look at the Mercedes-Benz EQE300 SUV and analyze all its key features, both good and bad.
Overview
Mercedes-Benz has expanded its electric vehicle lineup in Australia with the introduction of the EQE SUV range, offering a more practical and compact alternative to the existing EQE sedan. In a surprising twist, the pricing of the EQE300 does not include an “SUV tax,” making it more attractive to potential buyers. Notably, the base EQE300 is priced the same as the sedan, and as you move up the range, the SUV is even cheaper than its sedan counterpart. This makes it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market and a compelling choice.
Pricing
The price of the EQE300 kicks off the newly introduced SUV range at $134,900 before options and on-road costs. The base model comes with a 180kW/550Nm electric motor on the rear axle, powered by an 89 kilowatt-hour battery providing a claimed 539km driving range. It offers an array of features, including 21-inch alloy wheels, AMG Line styling, ‘Digital Light’ matrix LED lighting, a panoramic sliding glass sunroof, powered tailgate, keyless entry and start, rear privacy glass, and side steps. The interior boasts leather seat trim, a head-up display, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable heated front seats, 64-colour ambient lighting, and real wood dashboard trim.
If you want to go the extra mile, you have the option to add 22-inch wheels, a choice of black or grey interiors, ‘Guard 360’ Protection Plus, 22kW AC charging, four-wheel steering, and air suspension – among other available options.
Interior and Space
The spacious and high-quality interior of the EQE300 makes it an attractive option for buyers looking for a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. The cabin provides plenty of room for five occupants, but there is no option for a seven-seat configuration. The design features a relatively simple dashboard and an uncluttered center console designed to maximize storage space. However, the choice of interior colors and materials can impact the level of maintenance required to keep the cabin in top condition.
Another noteworthy aspect is the storage options available throughout the vehicle, including the deep storage box under the center armrest, multiple cupholders, and ample space in the boot area. However, potential buyers should take note of the limitations in rear-seat comfort due to the fixed rear seat angle and lack of adjustable options. The boot offers 520L of cargo space with the seats up, and 1675L with the seats folded down, providing ample space for luggage and other items.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The EQE300 features a 12.8-inch infotainment display in the center of the dash and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, along with a driver’s head-up display. It offers compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a range of other features embedded as part of the EQE’s software. The system also includes FM and DAB+ radio, integrated satellite navigation, active noise-cancelling, 15-speaker Burmester audio, and access to the Mercedes Me app. However, the usability of the touchscreen and steering wheel touchpads may impact the overall experience, as some parts of the vehicle’s interior tend to move and rattle.
Safety and Energy Efficiency
The EQE300 comes equipped with advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring with active assist, and traffic sign recognition, among others. However, the vehicle does not carry an ANCAP safety rating or an equivalent Euro NCAP rating, with testing not yet conducted. This may be a concern for buyers who prioritize safety features in their vehicle selection.
In terms of energy efficiency, the EQE300 offers a claimed 539km driving range in a single charge, with energy consumption rated at 18.9 kilowatt-hours per 100 kilometers. However, real-world results may vary, and potential buyers should consider their specific driving requirements and charging infrastructure when evaluating the vehicle’s energy efficiency.
Driving Experience
While the EQE300 offers a smooth and serene driving experience, some aspects may impact the overall comfort and performance. The vehicle’s electric motor drives the rear wheels, delivering 180kW and 550Nm of power, which provides robust driving performance. However, the ride quality does not meet luxury standards, with potential issues around compromised visibility and driving position. The steering is light and fluid, but lacks feedback, and the vehicle struggles to disguise its weight on uneven road surfaces.
Further, the EQE300’s driving range and charge speed offer practical benefits for drivers looking for an efficient and reliable electric vehicle. The vehicle offers standard AC charging up to 11kW, with an optional 22kW onboard charger upgrade available. The maximum charge speed is 170kW, allowing for a quick 32-minute top-up in ideal conditions.
Conclusion
The EQE300 presents a compelling case as a no-surcharge electric alternative in the luxury SUV market, with its attractive pricing, quality interior, and spacious design. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the vehicle’s ride quality, safety rating, and driving experience to ensure it meets their specific requirements and preferences. Overall, the EQE300 poses a strong contender in the evolving electric vehicle landscape, offering a blend of power, efficiency, and luxury features for discerning buyers.
Buying Options
For prospective buyers interested in purchasing the EQE300, Mercedes-Benz offers a no-negotiation pricing model through its authorized dealers, providing uniform pricing across the board and a range of models in stock. Additionally, interested buyers can explore the Mercedes-Benz online purchase portal to find available models and specific variants.
For the latest updates on the EQE range, interested buyers can visit the Mercedes-Benz official website and browse available electric vehicles for sale on Drive.com.au.
Author Bio
The review was completed by Kez Casey, an automotive industry expert with over ten years of experience in car reviews and road tests for leading publications. Kez offers an in-depth analysis of the EQE300 and shares insights on its performance, features, and overall driving experience.
Ratings Breakdown
The review concludes with a comprehensive ratings breakdown, providing a detailed evaluation of the EQE300 based on key features, performance, and driving experience. The ratings offer an insightful overview of the vehicle’s strengths and shortcomings, serving as a valuable resource for buyers looking to assess its suitability.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz EQE300 SUV review offers a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the vehicle, providing potential buyers with valuable insights into its key features and functionalities. The review’s balanced approach highlights both the vehicle’s strengths and areas for improvement, allowing buyers to make informed decisions based on their specific requirements and priorities.
