What is it?
The X296 EQS SUV is Mercedes-Benz's full size electric flagship SUV, built on the dedicated EVA platform alongside the EQS sedan. Three variants for Australia, all AWD: EQS 450 4MATIC at 265 kW with 626 km WLTP, EQS 580 4MATIC at 400 kW, and the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV at 484 kW with executive rear seat packaging. Standard third row, rear axle steering, and the optional 141 cm Hyperscreen.
The lineup runs from EQS 450 4MATIC at $179,400 plus on-roads, through to Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV at $352,400 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
Standard third row makes it a genuine seven seat luxury EV. Rear axle steering cuts the turning circle to 11.0 metres, smaller than a C Class. Hyperscreen is still the most theatrical dashboard on sale. 626 km WLTP on the 450 4MATIC, with real world 500 km achievable.
200 kW DC peak trails 800V Korean rivals on road trips. EQS shape divides opinion next to a GLS. Heavy at over 2,800 kg, you feel it on tight roads. ANCAP rating not yet assigned for Australia.
Should you buy the EQS SUV?
Reasons to buy
- Standard third row makes it a genuine seven seat luxury EV. Rear axle steering cuts the turning circle to 11.0 metres, smaller than a C Class. Hyperscreen is still the most theatrical dashboard on sale. 626 km WLTP on the 450 4MATIC, with real world 500 km achievable.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km. EV battery: 10 years, 250,000 km.
- 195 L (third row up) / 880 L (third row down) / 2,100 L max boot, segment-competitive cargo space.
Reasons to wait
- 200 kW DC peak trails 800V Korean rivals on road trips. EQS shape divides opinion next to a GLS. Heavy at over 2,800 kg, you feel it on tight roads. ANCAP rating not yet assigned for Australia.
- You want 800V DC charging, a more conventional SUV silhouette than the EQ shape, or a lower kerb weight than 2,800 kg on tight country roads.
- If you do not need a third row, the BMW iX xDrive60 offers more range for less money. Maybach buyers should sit in the rear lounge before signing, the executive seats are the entire point of the spec.
- Top trim climbs to $352,400 plus on-roads.
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