Fast SUVs are becoming increasingly popular. People want the safety and “above all” feeling offered by these larger vehicles but would still like something sporty and fast. Up until now, fast SUVs used clever suspension and big engines to provide the performance necessary. However, the introduction of electrification has forced manufacturers to change their approach. Morally speaking, we are not sure how environmentally friendly an SUV that weighs roughly three tons and is full of batteries is, but nonetheless, we can certainly say they are fast as the all-new Mercedes EQE AMG proves. This is the first-ever electric SUV to roll out of AMG so it’s an important one – let’s have a look at what it can offer.
Subtle Exterior Design
The exterior of the AMG EQE SUV might come across as a bit controversial. Fast Mercs used to have sharp edges which led to an aggressive design; however, newer models, and especially EVs like the EQE are far more rounded. In our opinion though, to the untrained eye, the EQE AMG will look more like a luxurious SUV rather than a fast one. As you would imagine, the AMG version needs to stand out from the normal EQE. Main design differences include a front grill with vertical stripes, air ducts in the front bumper, gloss-finished instead of matt-finished plastic pieces, body-color trim pieces, 22-inch turbine rims that are exclusive to the AMG, and a new heritage badge on the front of the hood.
As a nod to the exhaust systems of fossil power AMGs, the rear bumper of the EQE AMG features a three-lined design whereas the normal EQE only has two lines. This represents the larger exhaust that would have been found on vehicles of the past and helps people distinguish the car in front of them even if the badging is missing. Ironically, the new AMG badge on the EQE features a valve and camshaft in the logo which obviously cannot be found in the EV models of the company. However, it is a quirky reminder of the company's past creations.
Snazzy Interior
The interior of the EQE AMG is much like the exterior. Certain design elements like the steering wheel hint that this is a performance vehicle, but the general design is more luxurious rather than sporty. The main differences between the fast and normal versions are the steering wheel, AMG sport seats, and the infotainment screen software. The infotainment system, by the way, can be upgraded to the 56-inch hyperscreen that's also visible on the other Mercedes models. In these unique screens, you will find options like the super sport and track pace (only available on the track pace option). These windows offer information like lateral acceleration, longitude acceleration, accelerator pedal position, and speed. This is meant to provide track information; however, it is also a cool quirk.
Another cool feature is a sound that is pumped inside and outside the cabin which changes depending on whether you are accelerating or decelerating. The sound can be altered through buttons on the steering wheel and does not resemble an internal combustion noise – it is akin to a futuristic sound a spaceship in a sci-fi movie would make. If the sound isn’t something you like, it can be turned off. Press the same buttons for slightly longer and you will be able to save individualized car settings based on how sporty or comfy you want the vehicle to be. This is a cool feature that makes the life of EQE drivers easier. Is it just us or are EVs very similar to phones and laptops? On the main center screen, you will also find the performance menu. Here you will get vehicle information like energy flow and more. Once again, such an option is not available on the standard EQE.
Up to 677 Horses Powering The AMG EQE
The EQE 53 AMG comes with 700-pound-feet of torque and between 616 and 677 horsepower, depending on the option boxes ticked on purchase. Performance figures include a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 137 mph. As you have probably noticed by now, EVs thrive at 0-60 times but do fall back when it comes to top speed. This is the case with the EQE; however, this isn’t an issue as you cannot reach such speeds on public roads anyway.
Air suspension on the AMG is standard unlike on the normal vehicle which is an option. It can alter the stiffness and ride height of the vehicle depending on the mode you are in. This makes it more sporty or more comfortable based on what you need at each specific moment. Keep in mind that the air suspension on the AMG is not the same as on the normal EQE. The latter is more comfort-oriented. The addition of active stabilization technology which works with the 48-volt system keeps the body of the EQE AMG flat through high-speed cornering. When driving at normal speeds the system disconnects and allows the wheels of the EQE to travel through the suspension range freely – this provides the perfect balance between a comfortable ride and flat cornering. Further aiding the AMG’s cornering performance while also masking the weight of the EQE is standard rear-wheel steering. The steering angle in the rear is limited to nine degrees as opposed to the optional 10 degrees available on the normal car due to wider tires.
Final Thoughts
Electric cars are not all that interesting to petrolheads; however, we believe that there is plenty to be admired. The technology on offer makes them a perfect daily driver with comfort, silence, and features that point towards the future. The question now remains, would you pick the EQE AMG over the current EV performance SUV lineup?