The Mercedes EQS Review

Mercedes EQS review is this another Mercedes EQ success?

The wonderful world of electric cars is now becoming an ecosystem of innovation and technological advancement. Segments and product line-ups are increasing with rigour and ambition, as manufacturers eagerly compete to be known as true EV gurus, with trusted and robust options to lease or buy.

The team at Merc have been no different as they have transitioned their various platforms over to electric tech under the auspices of the EQ sub-brand. And to help bolster continuity and familiarity, instead of completely changing the aesthetics and appearance, the German manufacturer converted a number of existing platforms to all-electric including:

GLA - EQA
GLB - EQB
GLC - EQC
E Class - EQE
S Class - EQS
V Class - EQV

But Mercedes are from finished, with their EQS SUV due to launch later this year and their EQXX innovation / concept being proffered as one of the longest-range models with a 621 mile journey recorded! Manufacturers cannot be remiss and rest on any success, when new EV-only competitors are bringing a plethora of amazing product.

You only have to look at the unprecedented and atmospheric rise of Tesla along with brands like Rivian and Fisker who are combating the status quo. The crux of all of this is that the world of manufacturers and dealerships are undergoing huge changes and those who don’t get on board with the new and more efficient ways of doing business will be left behind.

As Tesla have proved, you don’t need large dealerships and advertising to make a successful product; create a cost-effective and practical EV and with a healthy supply chain and after-sales you can achieve success. It will come as no surprise that for 2023, many manufacturers are opting for agency based approaches, which will lead to more online sales via their internal platforms and dealerships becoming more of a store and after-sales / used-car presentation.

As part of this, you would not be surprised that manufacturers have been trialling different cars and segments as part of their learning journey. To embark into the luxury car market, particularly for a large saloon, is a big investment for Mercedes. This large executive car, at 5216mm in length and 1926mm in width, will be the equivalent of the “S-Class” which has been somewhat instrumental as an executive company car or chauffeur proposition. Obviously many towns and cities are now having to adopt Clean Air Zones , so to improve air quality many vehicles will have to change.

Taxi and chauffeur organisations, plus hotels and corporate, do utilise these bigger prestige luxury facets to move around VIPs and key guests. These vehicles, much like the rest of any fleet, will have to change. And for some personal and business customers, there is still an appetite for ostentatious and robust vehicles which emit presence and comfort. But is the EQS the only option to lease? Far from it.

BMW have quickly responded to this with their BMW i7 , a 7 series alternative, which launched in mid-2022 with Tesla set to re-launch their Model S (https://www.electriccarlease.co.uk/electric-car-leasing/tesla/model-s) early 2023 for UK and Europe. And not to be completely outdone, Audi have confirmed an A6 e-tron will be launched in 2023 with a purported 100 kWh battery for up to 400 mile ranges and 270 kW DC charging capability for 185 miles in just 10 minutes.

Is the Mercedes EQS the best luxury car to lease?

EVs are no different to combustion options in that opinions are subjective when it comes to style, design and aesthetics - it is often the case that customers are dedicated to Audi / BMW / Mercedes / “some other”.

But with electric cars, the price you pay is respective to the battery configuration and capability. Key metrics like battery size, range, charging capabilities and performance are all hugely important facets which must be taken into consideration by any personal, business or salary sacrifice customer. You wouldn’t pay £100,000+ for an amazing looking vehicle with an inadequate range or charging speed for your needs and requirements. With the EQS, customers are able to choose from some key models including:

The 450+ AMG Line - £102,160
The 450+ AMG Line Premium - £109,160
The 450+ AMG Line Premium Plus - £116,160
The 450+ Luxury - £109,160
The 450+ Exclusive Luxury - £116,160
The 53 Night Edition - £157,160
The 53 Touring - £157,160

To be clear the 450+ applies to the engine / motor configuration in that it is a 107 kWh usable lithium battery which delivers 0 - 62 mph times of 6.2 seconds, 245 kW (or 329hp) and 130 mph top speeds. In terms of range, this incredible EV offers around 330 miles in colder climates and 460 miles in warmer weather; an overall range of just under 400 miles!

Charging times on the 11 kW AC max will take 11 hours and 45 minutes from 0 - 100% with the 207 kW DC rapid charging capability taking just over 30 minutes. And with a fuel equivalent of 148 mpg, this really is more efficient than any petrol or diesel option. Practicality is key, with a 750kg towing weight (braked or unbraked).

If you have the budget, upgrade to the performance 53 model. With the same 107 kWh usable lithium battery this all-electric saloon or touring delivers 0 - 62 mph times of 3.4 seconds, 560 kW (or 751hp) and 155 mph top speeds. In terms of range, this incredible EV offers around 295 miles in colder climates and 400 miles in warmer weather; an overall range of just under 400 miles! Charging times on the 11 kW AC max will take 11 hours and 45 minutes from 0 - 100% with the 207 kW DC rapid charging capability taking just over 30 minutes. And with a fuel equivalent of 131 mpg, this is still an efficient supercar - far removed from any Ferrari or Lamborghini.

Building the perfect EQS is going to be personal. Some customers may go for the Premium model to enjoy features like the ambient lighting, Burmester surround sound and parking package. The Plus option increases the alloys to 21” multi spoke and includes HUD and MBUX interior assistant.

The Exclusive Luxury offers 22” alloys, comfort headrests and seats (plus massaging seats), heated windscreen and steering wheel plus rose gold surround keys. Where e-car lease do see options being added is for those companies who need to ensure complete luxury for the passenger (and driver). The key packages include:

Hyperscreen Package - at near £8000 this unique model adds the all-digital dashboard coupled with HUD and augmented reality plus the MBUX multimedia system. The digital presentation is impressive;
Keyless-Go Package - start and lock your vehicle just by having your key in your pocket; and
Rear Luxury Lounge Package - at £4000 this package optimises the passenger experience with adaptive lighting, additional USB ports, climate for rear seats, COMAND centre rear, electric adjustable rear seats and massaging rear seats.

For the best EQS leasing deals, just head over to our dedicated section on the e-car lease website. Need more advice or information? Just call our team directly

Mercedes EQS 450+ 245kW AMG Line 108kWh 4dr Auto Pure Electric Vehicle

In terms of the car shown, the Mercedes EQS 450+ 245kW AMG Line 108kWh 4dr Auto Pure Electric Vehicle, this is based on the following for our business leasing customer.

Sodalite Blue Metallic paint
Lugano leather - Neva grey/balaobrown
20" AMG 5 spoke light alloy wheels in black with aero-elements in matt tantalit
Both Mode 3 / Type 2 Charging Cable (Public Charging & home wallbox charger – Fast charging) & Mode 2 / 10amp 240v Charging Cable (Domestic 3 pin plug - Slow charging)