The Mercedes-Benz EQE is an all-electric luxury sedan that promises to combine the German automaker‘s signature refinement and performance with eco-friendly efficiency. However, before you rush to place an order for this high-tech marvel, there are several key factors you should consider. In this article, we‘ll delve into seven compelling reasons why the EQE might not be the best choice for your next luxury EV purchase.
1. The EQE‘s Steep Price Tag
One of the most significant barriers to owning a Mercedes-Benz EQE is its hefty price tag. The base model, the EQE 350+, starts at a staggering $74,900, while the top-of-the-line AMG EQE Pinnacle trim will set you back a whopping $109,100. These prices are considerably higher than many of its competitors in the luxury EV market, such as the Tesla Model S and the Porsche Taycan.
Moreover, when compared to gas-powered luxury sedans in the same size category, the EQE‘s value proposition becomes even more questionable. For instance, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which shares many of the EQE‘s luxury features and amenities, starts at a more palatable $54,950. While the EQE boasts the advantage of being all-electric, the significant price premium may be hard to justify for many buyers.
2. A Compromised Driving Experience
Despite its impressive performance figures, the Mercedes-Benz EQE falls short in delivering a truly premium driving experience. One of the primary culprits is the vehicle‘s substantial weight. Tipping the scales at around 2.5 tons, the EQE is significantly heavier than most of its competitors, which negatively impacts its handling and agility, particularly when navigating curves and corners.
Additionally, the EQE‘s stiff suspension setup can make for a harsh ride, especially on less-than-perfect road surfaces. While the adaptive air suspension system attempts to mitigate this issue, some reviewers have found it to be inconsistent and ineffective in providing a genuinely comfortable ride. The EQE‘s low ground clearance also means that it‘s more prone to scraping over speed bumps and potholes, further detracting from the overall driving experience.
3. Limited Interior Storage and Cargo Space
Another area where the Mercedes-Benz EQE fails to impress is in its interior storage and cargo capacity. Despite its spacious cabin, which comfortably accommodates up to five passengers, the EQE‘s trunk space is surprisingly limited. With a capacity of just 430 liters, it falls short of competitors like the Tesla Model S (804 liters) and even the smaller Audi e-tron GT (465 liters).
To make matters worse, the EQE lacks a front trunk (frunk), a common feature among many EVs that provides additional storage space. The EQE‘s trunk is also relatively shallow and narrow, with a high loading lip that makes it challenging to load and unload bulky items. While there are a few clever storage solutions scattered throughout the cabin, such as door pockets and a center console, they are generally small and not particularly well-organized.
4. An Overwhelming Interior Design
The Mercedes-Benz EQE‘s interior is a showcase of the latest technology, but it may be a case of too much of a good thing. The centerpiece of the EQE‘s cabin is the massive 56-inch Hyperscreen, which spans the entire width of the dashboard and houses three separate OLED displays. While visually impressive, this setup can be overwhelming and distracting for drivers, particularly when trying to access essential functions on the move.
The overreliance on touchscreens and gesture controls also means that many of the EQE‘s features and settings require diving into complex menus and submenus, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. The absence of physical buttons and knobs for frequently used controls, such as volume and climate settings, further compounds this issue. As a result, the EQE‘s interior can feel more like a tech showcase than a user-friendly driving environment.
5. Falling Short of the Mercedes-Benz Luxury Standard
Mercedes-Benz has built its reputation on crafting vehicles that embody luxury, refinement, and attention to detail. However, the EQE falls somewhat short of these lofty standards. Its exterior design, while sleek and aerodynamic, lacks the elegance and sophistication that characterize the brand‘s best offerings. Some critics have described the EQE‘s appearance as bland and generic, failing to make a strong visual statement.
Inside, the EQE‘s cabin materials and build quality are undoubtedly premium, but they don‘t quite match the exceptional levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail found in other Mercedes-Benz models. The overwhelming emphasis on technology and screens also detracts from the sense of timeless luxury that the brand is known for, making the EQE feel more like a high-tech gadget than a truly opulent vehicle.
6. Potential Safety Concerns with Regenerative Braking
The Mercedes-Benz EQE features a regenerative braking system, which is designed to recover energy from the wheels when the driver lifts off the accelerator or applies the brakes. While this technology is common among EVs and helps to extend the vehicle‘s range, some drivers have reported issues with the EQE‘s implementation.
Specifically, the regenerative braking system can feel unpredictable and inconsistent, causing the brake pedal to move up and down without input from the driver, or applying varying levels of braking force without warning. This can make it difficult for drivers to modulate the brakes effectively, potentially compromising safety in emergency braking situations.
Furthermore, the EQE‘s electronic wear sensors, which alert drivers when the brake pads need replacing, are only present on the front axle. The rear axle relies on a manual inspection gauge, which must be checked by the driver or a qualified technician. This discrepancy could lead to uneven brake wear and reduced braking performance if not monitored closely.
7. Compelling Alternatives in the Luxury EV Market
Finally, it‘s essential to consider the growing array of alternatives in the luxury EV market before committing to the Mercedes-Benz EQE. Brands like Tesla, Porsche, Audi, and even Ford offer compelling options that may better suit your needs and preferences.
For example, the Tesla Model S boasts a longer range, faster acceleration, and more spacious interior than the EQE, while the Porsche Taycan delivers a more engaging driving experience and a more premium fit and finish. The Audi e-tron GT, meanwhile, offers comparable luxury and performance to the EQE, but with a more distinctive and eye-catching design.
Even the Ford Mustang Mach-E, a relative newcomer to the luxury EV scene, presents a strong case for itself, with a more affordable price point, impressive range, and the iconic Mustang styling cues that help it stand out from the crowd.
Conclusion
While the Mercedes-Benz EQE is undoubtedly an impressive feat of engineering and technology, it‘s not without its shortcomings. From its steep price tag and compromised driving dynamics to its limited storage space and overwhelming interior design, the EQE may not be the best choice for every luxury EV buyer.
Furthermore, with the rapid evolution of the electric vehicle market and the increasing number of compelling alternatives from established and emerging brands alike, it‘s essential to carefully weigh your options before making a decision. By considering factors such as your budget, driving preferences, and daily needs, you can ensure that you choose the luxury EV that best aligns with your lifestyle and expectations.
Ultimately, while the Mercedes-Benz EQE has its merits, it‘s crucial to approach this vehicle with a critical eye and an open mind. By carefully evaluating its strengths and weaknesses, and comparing it to the growing array of alternatives in the luxury EV market, you can make an informed decision that will provide you with the best possible ownership experience for years to come.
