Used Mercedes EQS: 2025 Buyer’s Guide And Key Checks

The Mercedes-Benz EQS represents the pinnacle of electric luxury sedans, launched as the brand’s flagship EV in 2021 following a 2019 concept tease. This massive vehicle combines cutting-edge technology with opulent design, but its lofty price tag limited new sales, creating a niche used market today. While it excels in refinement and range, potential buyers must weigh its hefty weight, high running costs, and occasional tech glitches against its premium appeal.

Overview of the Mercedes EQS Lineup

Spanning from 2021 to the present, the EQS Mk1 lineup offers rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants, with power outputs from 288hp in the base EQS 350 to over 750hp in the discontinued AMG EQS 53. All models feature a single-speed automatic transmission and draw from massive battery packs—ranging from 108kWh to 118kWh—delivering official ranges up to 485 miles (WLTP). Real-world efficiency hovers around 3.5-4.0 mi/kWh, making long highway cruises its strength despite the 2.6-2.9 tonne curb weight.

Four-wheel steering enhances its surprising agility for a 5.2-meter-long behemoth, paired with standard air suspension that smooths out imperfections. However, spirited cornering reveals body roll, prioritizing comfort over dynamism. Towing is capped at 750kg across the board, suitable for light trailers but not heavy loads.

Trim Levels and Standard Features

Mercedes structured the EQS around escalating AMG Line packages, each building on progressive luxury and tech. Here’s a breakdown:

Pre-2024 facelift models often lacked standard heat pumps (£1,000 option) and the iconic MBUX Hyperscreen (£8,000 option), a 56-inch curved display spanning three screens. Post-facelift (2024+), these are standard, significantly improving winter range and cabin immersion. The AMG EQS 53, with its 761hp and Night Edition/Touring variants, was dropped in 2024.

Performance and Driving Experience

Powertrains shine on motorways, where the EQS’s serene cabin and effortless acceleration (0-62mph in 4.3 seconds for EQS 450+, under 4 for AMG) make it a cruiser par excellence. Air suspension isolates road noise superbly, and regenerative braking is adjustable for one-pedal driving. Yet, the sheer mass dulls handling feedback, and tire roar from large alloys can intrude at speed.

• Base EQS 350: 288hp RWD, ~370-mile range
• EQS 450/450+: 355hp 4MATIC, up to 485 miles
• EQS 580: 516hp, balanced performance
• AMG 53: 761hp, 0-62 in 3.4s (discontinued)

Charging speeds peak at 200kW DC (10-80% in ~30 minutes), with AC up to 11kW. Home wallbox owners will appreciate the efficiency, though full charges from empty take over 10 hours.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

The EQS cabin is a digital haven, dominated by the optional-turned-standard Hyperscreen offering augmented reality navigation, voice controls, and customizable widgets. Materials exude quality—soft leathers, wood veneers, ambient lighting—but some report rattles or subpar plastics in high-mileage examples.

Seating for five is spacious, with excellent legroom and optional rear massaging chairs via the Rear Luxury Lounge package. Trunk capacity impresses at 620 liters (expandable to 1,700 liters), outpacing many rivals. However, the sloping roofline slightly compromises rear headroom for taller passengers.

Reliability Concerns and What to Inspect

With limited used stock, fault data is anecdotal. Common issues include:

• MBUX software freezes or glitches
• Air conditioning failures
• Occasional interior trim loosening
• Battery management system errors (rare)

Priority checks:

• Battery Health: Request a State of Health (SoH) report; aim for >90% capacity.
• Heat Pump: Verify presence on pre-2024 models for cold-weather efficiency.
• Hyperscreen: Test all functions, including touch responsiveness.
• Suspension/Steering: Listen for unusual noises over bumps.
• Service History: Full Mercedes records essential.

Mercedes provides a 3-year unlimited mileage warranty, extendable to 18 years via service plans. Battery coverage is 10 years/155,000 miles (70% capacity guaranteed). Annual servicing costs £300-£500, with brake fluid changes every 2 years.

Ownership Costs Breakdown

Used EQS prices start around £40,000 for higher-mileage 2021 models, climbing to £80,000+ for low-mileage facelifts. Running expenses are premium:

Depreciation has been steep due to initial high prices (£100,000+ new), but residuals stabilize for well-equipped examples. Home charging and off-peak tariffs mitigate fuel costs versus petrol luxury rivals.

Market Availability and Buying Tips

Fewer than expected used EQS units circulate, favoring low-mileage ex-fleet or lease returns. Opt for 2024+ facelifts with standard heat pump and Hyperscreen for best value. Private sales risk warranty voids—stick to approved dealers.

• Budget £50,000-£70,000 for a solid 450 4MATIC Premium Plus under 30,000 miles.
• Negotiate on high-spec models with optional extras.
• Test drive extensively: focus on highway range and city maneuvering.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Exceptional range, plush ride, tech-loaded interior, strong warranty.
• Cons: High weight impacts agility, expensive insurance/tax, potential software niggles, limited used supply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the used Mercedes EQS reliable?

Early data suggests good battery longevity, but watch for infotainment and AC issues. Full service history mitigates risks.

What’s the real-world range of an EQS?

Expect 300-400 miles on motorways, dropping to 250-300 in winter without heat pump.

Does the EQS hold value well?

Steep initial drop, but luxury EVs like this stabilize better than average.

Can I tow with an EQS?

Yes, up to 750kg braked—light duties only.

Should I buy pre- or post-facelift?

Post-2024 for standard efficiency upgrades; pre- for potential bargains if options included.