Mercedes-Benz EQS Review: Insights from the Futuristic Frontier

Steering an EQS offers a journey filled with enlightening revelations and sheer bewilderment. I doubt we'll be returning anytime soon, though.

The future is a tough business. Nobody knows that like Mercedes-Benz. The German company has built a reputation for being the tip of the automotive tech spear, defining the technologies that feature into mainstream cars 10 or 20 years from now. Antilock brakes, electronic stability control, even superchargers—it’s a long list.

However, this method carries significant risks. Get it right, and you'll be hailed as an innovator who revolutionized the industry. But get it wrong, and you could end up burdened with perplexing, untested technology and considerable wasted resources.

No car exemplifies this like the Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan. Heralded as the flagship of the electric era, it arrived to middling reviews and lackluster sales. Mercedes already knows this, which is why it’s pivoting away from the egg-shaped designs, ditching the EQ names And moving forward with hybrid alternatives. The upcoming electric S-Class will indeed be one of those— an electric S-Class , in name and looks, not a standalone model like this.

But the EQS is here now, and Available for purchase with just a tune on the second-hand market as well. . It also got a light facelift for 2025, with a slightly more traditional front-end faux grille and a bigger battery for more range. Let’s look at what it gets right and what it gets wrong about the future.

(Transparency Note: Mercedes provided me with a 2024 EQS for a week to use during this evaluation. Upon arrival, the vehicle was fully charged.)

Mercedes EQS: Driving Experience

Step into any electric vehicle (EV), and it becomes clear why high-end carmakers were among the first to heavily invest in this technology. The advantages of electric powertrains include effortless, quiet driving experiences. While the S-Class' inline-six and V8 engines offer exceptional smoothness, they fall short compared to the EQS' highly refined drive system.

The EQS is available in four versions: 450+ rear-wheel drive, 450 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and 580 AWD. AMG AWD. The EQS 450+ model I tested produced 355 horsepower and 419 lb-ft of torque via its solo motor setup. In comparison, the all-wheel-drive variant delivers identical horsepower with a significant boost to torque at 590 lb-ft. While these figures might not seem extraordinary today due to increasingly powerful vehicles, one must consider that electric vehicles operate silently; thus, you won’t hear the powertrain working hard under stress.

A 335-hp gas engine would be groaning to move the 5,500-lb EQS around. But the electric motors register no such complaints. Since you hardly ever use a luxury limo for drag racing, its 5.9-second 0-60 time is quick enough that your comfort, not the motor, will be the limiting factor on speed.

Mercedes refreshed the EQS for 2025 with a redesigned grille intended to resemble its gas-powered models. Although I tested the 2024 version, this review also covers the modifications introduced in the 2025 edition.

Those who demand extra power might want an EQS 580 instead. That makes 516 hp and 611 lb-ft of torque. The gluttons among you can opt for the absurd AMG EQS Sedan and gorge yourselves on 649 hp and 700 lb-ft of torque. But given that I never wanted for power and the already hefty $117,375 sticker price on the EQS 450+ I drove, I wouldn’t spend up for the big power versions. Even the base powertrain is delightful.

Betting on electric motivation, then, was a smart play. Yet in offering a car with more weight, different weight distribution and a trick rear-steer system, somewhere along the way Mercedes lost sight of making it ride like an S-Class. The marque’s signature buttercream ride is the main reason I’d recommend one. The new gas-powered S-Class is the best-riding car this side of a Rolls-Royce.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes EQS 450+ review

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes EQS 450+ review

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes EQS 450+ review

The EQS isn’t. It’s not uncomfortable. It’s still a phenomenal highway car. But around town, over bumps and divots, all the air suspension trickery in the world can’t hide the thing’s weight. It lumbers over crests and flops into depressions. Those words may be harsh—it still rides better than the average car—but those chasing on-road perfection won’t find it here. Thus, our first warning from the Ghost of Mercedes Future: In your quest to chase what’s next, don’t forget how you got here.

I agree that the German automakers' hesitation to provide a genuine one-pedal drive feature seems odd, particularly since they frequently introduce "adjustable" settings that nearly achieve this but fall short. For instance, in the EQS, you can increase regeneration levels until it closely mimics single-pedal operation; however, the vehicle won't halt entirely by itself. This inconsistency is counterproductive. They should either commit fully to one-pedal driving or avoid it altogether. No halfway measures needed.

Don't assume that all this new chassis technology goes to waste. Mercedes introduced a rear-wheel-steering system in the EQS that significantly outperforms similar systems from competitors. While a Cybertruck Utilizing its assertive rear-wheel steering, Mercedes' system enables a massive pickup equipped with sizable 35-inch tires and poor wheel clearance to navigate turns reasonably well. This technology transforms maneuvering through parking lots into something akin to driving a compact vehicle. Executing U-turns on regular urban roads poses no challenge either. However, my mind struggled to adapt initially; I often ended up making the parking maneuvers overly tight and had to correct myself afterward. This indicates success: such advanced tech forces you to readjust your perceptions.

Mercedes EQS: Mileage, Power Capacity, and Recorded Energy Use

Every 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan comes equipped with an 118-kWh battery, providing up to 390 miles (628 km) of range for theEQS 450+ version. While this might fall short compared to models like the Lucid Air or Tesla Model S, it still outperforms much of the traditional rivals currently available. The one I tested featured larger wheels and was actually from the 2024 model year, complete with a smaller, earlier-version battery, resulting in a slightly reduced range of 352 miles (566 km). In my view, this figure represents just about the right balance.

Below are the range details for the other trims in 2025:

• EQS 450 4Matic: Up to 367 miles (590 km)
• EQS 580 4Matic: Up to 371 miles (591 km)
• AMG EQS: Up to 316 miles (509 km) of range

These numbers are impressive and indicate that Mercedes is committed to providing the extended-range electric vehicles that U.S. luxury car purchasers desire. During my test drive involving both highway and city conditions, I noted an energy consumption rate of 2.9 miles per kilowatt-hour, which suggests a practical range of approximately 342 miles under normal use. This figure holds up well considering the journey involved traveling with five people and their golf equipment.

The EQS boasts an impressive hatchback design that significantly enhances its utility compared to the gasoline-powered S-Class. We managed to accommodate three sets of golf clubs along with two cartons of Diet Coke, still leaving ample space available.

Photo by: Mack Hogan/InsideEVs

Mercedes EQS: Charging Experience

Unfortunately, due to some charger-side issues, I wasn’t able to record a clean 10-80% time for the EQS. I can say I saw charging speeds close to Mercedes’ claimed peak rate of 200 kW. The car also automatically preconditioned the battery for fast-charging when I selected a charger in the navigation menu. I was also impressed by how long the EQS held a high charging speed—it was still pulling 137 kW at around 65%, which is on the high end of normal for a 400-volt system.

Mercedes claims the EQS Sedan can go from 10-80% in 31 minutes. Based on what I saw, I believe it. There are certainly faster-charging cars in its class— a Porsche Taycan can go from 10-80 in around 16 minutes , and a The Lucid Air can achieve this in 20 seconds. —however, I find this performance quite satisfactory.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes EQS: Interior

Here is where taste significantly comes into play. The interior quality of the Mercedes EQS Sedan remains impeccable. They use high-quality materials and generally do an excellent job with aesthetics. However, traditional elements like leather and wood have been replaced by extensive amounts of black plastic within this model. This shift can be attributed to their emphasis on incorporating the large "Hyperscreen," which features a continuous end-to-end screen system composed of three individual displays.

It's quite remarkable, yet that essentially encompasses everything worth observing inside. The most substantial piece of timber within the cabin serves as the cover for the cup holders and wireless charging station. Considering you'll likely use this space to store your keys and phone, you might never even notice the wooden surface. As such, much of the interior consists primarily of glossy black finishes and areas occupied by screens.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

If your priority is a vehicle brimming with advanced technology, you’ll definitely find what you're looking for here. However, those anticipating an old-world luxury cabin akin to earlier models of Mercedes may feel letdown. The brand is fully committed to incorporating displays, voice controls, and cutting-edge technology into their cars; this strategic direction shows no signs of changing. Fortunately, the seating remains top-notch, although some might find the driving posture uncomfortable because of the car’s elevated waist line and somewhat disproportionate design.

Technology, Infotainment & UX

Mercedes thinks that technology holds the key to the future. For this reason, they created the EQS, essentially placing multiple bets on advanced technologies simultaneously. The car comes equipped with standard amenities like massage seats and premium audio systems such as the Burmester setup. However, it goes further by incorporatingSpatial Audio andDolby Atmos support—a feature sure to impress many users. This system allows for vibrations within the seat synchronized with the soundtrack. Additionally, an interactive voice assistant is included which not only activates various functions but also offers suggestions for dining spots en route.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

The system includes a web browser for video streaming. There’s also "augmented reality" navigation, which superimposes directional arrows over live footage captured by cameras at the vehicle's front, potentially causing significant distraction. Music streaming comes pre-installed, yet both CarPlay and Android Auto remain available as well. Essentially, this setup features a plethora of choices akin to a Cheesecake Factory menu displayed across a large 17.7-inch display, complemented by dual 12.3-inch screens positioned alongside.

In summary, it’s overly complex for my liking. Despite the system being remarkably swift and reliable, I often felt bewildered by all the menus and options available. Additionally, I was disappointed with the performance of the voice assistant. It always starts with "How may I assist you?" which disrupts the user's request and offers only a brief moment to speak. Furthermore, it frequently failed to understand even simple commands.

Tech-savvy owners will ultimately get the hang of it. However, being 27, I am roughly three decades younger than the typical buyer for a luxury car priced around $100,000, and even then, I found myself feeling quite overwhelmed.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

The EQS has reliable onboard navigation that supports route planning for extended journeys.

This comes down to personal preference. For quite some time, I've believed that luxury doesn't merely involve adding features; it also requires thoughtful removal. Providing an extensive array of options isn't as beneficial as delivering a cohesive software experience where each element seems purposeful throughout all menus. This is something both Tesla and Rivian excel at, putting them ahead of Mercedes in my view. While Mercedes has embraced over-the-air updates similar to these competitors, they have also introduced ChatGPT integration along with "conversational navigation" powered by Google Gemini. However, considering their history of continually introducing new add-ons over the past twenty years, I genuinely wish the upcoming version of MB.OS would take a more minimalist approach.

Mercedes states that its "conversational navigation" feature will make its first appearance on the new CLA model. However, this technology will ultimately be rolled out through an over-the-air update to numerous current vehicles as well. The EQS is likely to receive this upgrade at the forefront of such updates.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Safety & ADAS

At this point, Mercedes performs much better. The EQS features an excellent highway driving assistant along with a comprehensive set of advanced driver assistance systems. This lane management system can take complete control of steering, braking, and acceleration, including making automatic lane changes to bypass slower vehicles.

I appreciated the car's adherence to Germany's strict lane discipline rules—efficiently returning to the correct lane post-passing. However, it frequently switched lanes on California's congested, high-speed five-lane highways. The vehicle emits alerts to notify you about these maneuvers, which can interrupt the audio system; this caused me some frustration as my four-minute tracks were disrupted multiple times during each journey. While having warnings before every lane switch seems essential for safety reasons, making such adjustments might be worth enduring for added security. Nonetheless, I would personally disable automatic lane-changing features simply to enjoy a calmer driving environment.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Currently, Mercedes provides the sole genuine hands-free driving system in an American-made vehicle, though this feature is limited to just Nevada and California. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to test it out.

The EQS also provides Mercedes Drive Pilot. the only driver assistance system in the U.S. where you are legally allowed to take your eyes off the road under specific circumstances. These systems—dubbed “Level 3” in SAE parlance—are a cut above Level 2 systems like Tesla Autopilot and General Motors Super Cruise, which always require full supervision. But the scope is narrow: Drivers can only take their hands and eyes off the wheel on certain mapped freeways in California and Nevada while stuck in traffic below 40 mph.

The press vehicle I used lacked Drive Pilot, and even with repeated efforts, I've never had the chance to experience this technology firsthand in actual driving conditions.

Mercedes EQS: Pricing

The starting price for the Mercedes EQS 450+, inclusive of the destination fee, is $105,550. Similar to most German vehicles, adding extras can significantly increase the final cost, despite the basic model being fairly well-outfitted. The test vehicle I had, priced at $117,375, surprisingly lacked a heated steering wheel; the Mercedes voice assistant informed me gently when I requested it be turned on. This omission seems odd since such features come standard in models like the Chevy Blazer EV. However, high-end car segments typically do not include many items as part of their standard equipment.

Among the additional choices available for my tester were the $2,150 Exclusive package which features massage functions for the front seats, the MBUX "Interior Assistant," and a four-zone climate control system. There was also an optional perfume distribution system priced at $450.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

The starting price for the AWD EQS 450 4Matic is $108,550. The EQS 580 has an initial cost of $128,500, with the top-tier AMG EQS Sedan priced at $148,700.

Mercedes EQS: Verdict

With the EQS Sedan, Mercedes took a gamble, seeing the shift to electric vehicles as an opportunity to reinvent itself—not just as a tech pioneer but as a brand completely shaped by technological advancements. If you examine the resale value of pre-owned EQS models, it becomes clear that their strategy paid off. You can often find two-year-old examples of this luxury vehicle, which originally cost between $100,000 and $150,000, being sold for around $45,000.

The market has delivered its verdict, and unfortunately, it wasn’t very complimentary regarding these automobiles. However, this assessment might be somewhat harsh. The EQS stands as a fairly dependable vehicle, yet it seems to lack clear direction. As an electric vehicle, it performs adequately but doesn’t top the charts within its category. In terms of luxury, it holds up well enough; however, when compared to the S-Class in the same lineup, it falls short with less polished refinement. Additionally, despite being a fascinating display of technology, it comes from a brand that hasn’t quite matched the seamless user experiences offered by fully software-driven vehicles.

Photo by: Mercedes-Benz

Above all, it serves as a testing ground. Certain aspects function well: the impressive spatial audio system, the responsive display, the seamless powertrain, and decent driving range. However, some elements fall short: the ungainly design, the mediocre suspension, and the overwhelming presence of its extensive feature set.

This was an experiment. When Mercedes entered this market aggressively, they seemed to absorb numerous lessons swiftly. Although the company didn't create a unified, attractive offering, their willingness to dive fully into electric vehicles stands out in contrast to most manufacturers who are moving cautiously towards electrification. Therefore, one must commend Mercedes for taking such a daring approach.

While it might not have yielded returns this time, over an extended period, the market tends to favor businesses courageous enough to embrace genuine risks.

Contact the author: Mack.Hogan@insideevs.com .

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2024 Mercedes EQS 450+ Sedan
Base Price	$105,550
As-Tested Price	$117,375
EV Range	352 miles
Battery	108 kWh (net)
Drive Type	rear-wheel drive
Output	355 horsepower
Maximum torque	419 lb-ft