As an experienced technology analyst and electric vehicle enthusiast, I have closely followed the launches of new EV models entering the high-end luxury market. The Mercedes-Benz EQS stands out to me as a remarkable achievement in seamlessly blending premium comfort and quality with powerful electric performance.
After thoroughly researching the EQS‘s specifications, innovations, and independent reviews, I firmly believe it establishes a new benchmark for luxury EVs. For shoppers seeking a top-tier electric sedan, the reasons to choose an EQS over rivals like the Audi e-tron GT, Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan, and upcoming Lucid Air are compelling.
Overview and Pricing
First, let‘s quickly recap the variants of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS luxury EV:
EQS 450+ – $105,550 starting MSRP; 329 hp motor; 417 lb-ft torque; 350 mile range; 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds
EQS 580 4MATIC – $127,100 starting MSRP; 516 hp dual motor; 631 lb-ft torque; 340 mile range; 0-60 in 4.1 seconds
As expected with a flagship S-Class model, the EQS commands a premium price, but one that undercuts the $135,690 base Porsche Taycan by over $8,000. Notably, the EQS accomplishes this pricing advantage while matching or exceeding the Taycan‘s interior space, range, charging rate, and acceleration.
Now let‘s dive deeper into the top reasons tech-focused EV drivers will want to get behind the wheel of a new EQS today.
Reason 1: Spacious, Peaceful Cabin Environment
A chronic issue for EVs has been interior space sacrified due to battery pack integration. The EQS defies expectations by delivering a larger interior cabin than gas-powered S-Class models. By relocating components and stretching the wheelbase, Mercedes engineers achieved breakthrough spaciousness.
The sensation of airy tranquility inside the EQS has drawn rave reviews. With no central tunnel for the drivetrain, rear passengers can fully stretch out. The optional executive rear seating configuration redefines luxury, putting the S-Class and A8 to shame. Those looking for a sanctuary on wheels need look no further.
Reason 2: Hyperscreen and Superior MBUX Interface
Mercedes pioneered the introduction of advanced voice assistant AI and multimedia capability with MBUX in its vehicles. For the EQS, the system gets an incredible 56-inch OLED "Hyperscreen" dashboard touch display.
Spanning door-to-door, the visually stunning Hyperscreen integrates three separate displays under a shared glass panel: a 12.3-inch digital gauge screen, 17.7-inch central touchscreen, and 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen. MBUX allows occupants to control navigation, entertainment, massage seats, smart home devices, and more through intuitive touch, natural voice commands, or steering wheel inputs.
No other vehicle comes close to offering the technical wow factor and ease of use found in the EQS Hyperscreen and second-gen MBUX interface. It sets a benchmark for both aesthetics and functionality that will force other automakers to play catchup.
Reason 3: Go Anywhere Range Anxiety Eliminator
Since Tesla disrupted the scene, range anxiety has eased for EV shoppers thanks to networks of high-speed DC fast chargers across highways. Yet actual driving range between charging stops still matters tremendously for driver confidence and convenience.
Here the EQS delivers tranquility with an industry-leading 350 miles on the high-efficiency rear-wheel drive 450+ model. Going on a weekend trip or driving clients across the state? No problem. The EQS has room for luggage and range comparable to an efficient compact sedan.
Coupled with 200 kW fast charging, the EQS can replenish 110 miles in just 15 minutes. Charging from 10-80% capacity takes only 31 minutes – as quick as a bathroom and coffee stop. No more hour-plus charging sessions. The EQS provides both long daily range and lightning quick high-power top-up times.
Reason 4: Leading Active Safety Features
Safety is paramount with family vehicles, and here again the EQS ascends to the head of the EV class. The standard and available advanced driver assistance systems take active precautions to a new level.
Every EQS comes with Active Brake Assist, Active Steering Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and PRE-SAFE® Sound hearing protection. Driver drowsiness alerts are also standard.
Upgrading to the Driver Assistance Package adds superb Active Distance Assist, Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Route-Based Speed Adaptation, Emergency Stop Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, and more.
While Mercedes does not claim the EQS is self-driving, its comprehensive active safety suite meaningfully reduces accident risk better than competitors.
Reason 5: Sports Car-Rivaling Performance
A persistent myth about EVs is that they deliver dull, lifeless driving dynamics compared to internal combustion sport sedans. The EQS shatters this fallacy with genuinely exciting performance on par with iconic supercars.
Independent test drivers have heaped praise on the EQS‘s instantaneous acceleration and high-speed stability. The base 450+ trim zips to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds – not bad for a large 17-foot long luxury sedan. Opting for the 580 4MATIC torquier dual motor drops that sprint down to 3.9 seconds with AWD traction!
Cornering grip and composure also set new standards, aided by standard rear-axle steering and precise variable-ratio steering tuning. Make no mistake, the EQS provides a thrilling driving experience. Take it on back roads or the Autobahn with full confidence.
Reason 6: Seamless Smartphone Integration
Juggling devices while driving is not only annoying but dangerously distracting. The EQS supports both wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and WiFi hotspot capability to untether phones.
Six USB-C ports allow multiple devices to plug in for charging or media connections. The MBUX interface makes slick use of touchscreens, touchpads, steering wheel controls, and voice assistance to minimize eyes-off-road needs.
Leave the phone charging in the central cubby or backseat and enjoy cable-free integration with your vehicle systems. The EQS sets the standard for making device connectivity painless while improving focus on driving.
Reason 7: Class-Leading Warranty Coverage
Reliability and cost of ownership matter for EVs perhaps more than gas-powered luxury cars given the high MSRPs. Mercedes aims to dispel those concerns with an industry-leading warranty and reduced maintenance requirements.
The EQS warranty provides:
- 4 Years / 50,000 Miles New Vehicle Limited Warranty
- 4 Years / 50,000 Miles 24/7 Roadside Assistance
- 10 Years / Up to 155,000 Miles (whichever comes first) Limited Warranty on EV Battery Components
No other luxury automaker matches that decade of assurance on the crucial battery pack. And without any engine fluids or spark plug replacements needed, the EQS should deliver lower lifetime operating costs despite higher acquisition pricing.
Peace of mind comes standard with an EQS ownership experience.
Alternatives Worth Considering
While I firmly vouch for the EQS as the best luxury EV available in 2023, a few alternatives merit consideration:
Tesla Model S – With insane acceleration and 370+ mile variants, the Model S still offers exceptional performance at a lower cost. But it can‘t match the interior luxury, advanced safety systems, or Mercedes prestige of the EQS.
Audi e-tron GT – Closely related to the Porsche Taycan, the gorgeous e-tron GT promises plenty of driving excitement. But with only 238 miles of range, it trails the EQS significantly in daily usability.
BMW i7 – The latest 7 Series sedan features an impressive electric drivetrain option: the i7. It looks to rival the EQS on interior accommodations but lacks its commanding performance and range capabilities.
Lucid Air – The upcoming Air sedan from Silicon Valley based Lucid promises industry-leading power and ultra-fast charging once production scales up. But Lucid‘s limited dealer network and unproven reliability argue for some extra caution around the nascent brand.
Take the Wheel of the Future Today
In my expert opinion as an EV analyst, the Mercedes-Benz EQS stands decisively ahead of competitors as today‘s best electric luxury vehicle. The symbiotic achievement of maximizing interior comfort while advancing performance, safety, and technology cements its leadership position.
Potential buyers seeking a vision of the automotive future made real cannot go wrong placing a reservation for an EQS. Its across-the-board engineering achievements and benchmark user experience herald the golden age of EVs. Take your place at the cutting-edge now.
