Mercedes EQE 350 Review: 545 Km WLTP Range, Executive Comfort

The Mercedes EQE 350 stands as a pinnacle of electric vehicle engineering, targeting executive drivers who demand serenity, sophistication, and seamless power delivery. Built on Mercedes’ dedicated EVA2 platform, this sedan prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency and spacious interiors, positioning it as a direct E-Class counterpart in the EV realm. With a WLTP range up to 545 km and rapid acceleration, it promises long-distance capability wrapped in opulent materials.

Design and Aerodynamics: Sleek Yet Polarizing

The EQE 350’s exterior embodies Mercedes’ vision for electric mobility, featuring a low drag coefficient near 0.20 Cd, achieved through flush door handles, a smooth underbody, and a distinctive fastback profile. This ‘dumpling-like’ shape, while efficient, droops at both ends, making it less visually striking than traditional Mercedes saloons but highly optimized for range.

• Front fascia: Prominent three-pointed star grille with slim LED headlights for a bold presence.
• Side profile: Long wheelbase (3,120 mm) enhances stability and rear space.
• Rear design: Full-width taillights and subtle diffuser maintain clean lines.

Dimensions surpass the combustion E-Class: 4,926 mm long, 1,880 mm wide, and 1,503 mm tall, contributing to its planted stance. Available in AMG Line trim, it gains sportier bumpers and 20-inch wheels, though these can impact ride quality.

Powertrain and Performance: Balanced Electric Propulsion

At its core, the EQE 350+ employs a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 288 hp and 530 Nm of torque, propelling it from 0-100 km/h in 6.0 seconds. The all-wheel-drive 350 4Matic variant ups output to 320 PS and 765 Nm via dual motors, shaving acceleration to around 6.0-6.6 seconds while capping top speed at 210 km/h.

Real-world testing reveals composed highway manners, with overtakes feeling adequate but not exhilarating—higher trims like the EQE 500 offer more urgency. Regenerative braking via one-pedal driving is smooth, though the brake pedal’s auto-depression and minimal travel require adaptation.

Battery, Range, and Efficiency: Practical for Daily Use

A 90.6 kWh net battery (100 kWh gross) underpins the EQE, delivering WLTP figures of 18.7 kWh/100 km and up to 545-600 km range. Mixed testing yields 23.4 kWh/100 km, equating to about 374 km on an 800 km loop with highways and hills—decent but shy of segment leaders.

• Charging: Up to 170 kW DC (10-80% in ~32 min); 11 kW AC standard.
• Real-world factors: Aerodynamics shine on motorways, but curb weight over 2,500 kg hampers urban efficiency.
• Comparisons: Trails BMW i4 in agility but excels in straight-line quietude.

Air suspension with rear-axle steering (up to 10 degrees) enhances maneuverability, reducing turning circle to 10.7 m despite the length.

Interior Comfort: A Sanctuary of Refinement

Step inside, and the EQE 350 reveals a cabin rivaling private jets: supple leather, open-pore wood, and optional Hyperscreen—a 56-inch glass panel housing three displays. Noise isolation is exemplary at 66 dB at 70 mph, muting tires, wind, and powertrain. Front seats offer ventilation, massage, and ample adjustment; rear space benefits from the extended wheelbase, though headroom dips in the sloping roofline.

MBUX infotainment shines with voice control (‘Hey Mercedes’), augmented reality navigation, and customizable ambient lighting (64 colors). Drawbacks include potential dashboard creaks and overly firm optional wheels.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Sport

Mercedes tunes the EQE for wafting supremacy: air suspension absorbs potholes, pitch, and roll with poise, outperforming the larger EQS. Grip peaks at 0.86 g on summer tires optimized for economy, with 70-0 mph stops in 178 feet—safe but not sporty. Steering lacks feedback, prioritizing ease in Comfort mode.

In Sport, responses sharpen, but the 5,488-pound mass (2,490 kg) limits enthusiasm. It’s a cruiser par excellence, ideal for motorways where silence and stability reign.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Advanced Yet Intrusive

Standard Distronic adaptive cruise with lane-keeping, parking aids, and 360 cameras fortify safety. The structure’s rigidity and low center of gravity (battery placement) yield high crash scores, though specific ratings await full testing.

Pricing and Ownership: Premium Positioning

Starting around €70,000 for the 350+, prices escalate with options—4Matic and tech packs push toward €100,000. Rivals like the BMW i5 or Tesla Model S offer sharper value or performance. Three-year warranty and over-the-air updates add appeal, but high running costs for premium tires persist.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Buy the EQE 350?

Ideal for executives valuing luxury over thrills, long-range commuters, or company car buyers leveraging EV incentives. Skip if you crave dynamic handling or budget pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the real-world range of the Mercedes EQE 350?

Expect 350-400 km in mixed driving, depending on conditions and style.

Does the EQE 350 have all-wheel drive?

Yes, the 4Matic version does; the base 350+ is rear-wheel drive.

How does the EQE compare to the EQS?

Smaller and more agile, with similar luxury but better ride.

Is the Hyperscreen worth it?

For tech enthusiasts, yes; it transforms the dashboard experience.

What charging speeds does it support?

Up to 170 kW DC for fast top-ups.

Final Verdict: A Refined EV Contender

The Mercedes EQE 350 excels in delivering executive-class comfort, blending electric efficiency with traditional Mercedes poise. While not the sportiest or cheapest, its tranquil cabin and advanced features make it a compelling choice for luxury EV adopters. As battery tech evolves, expect refinements in future iterations.