The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (X296) represents the brand’s entry into the all-electric luxury SUV segment, launched for the 2022 model year and continuing through October 2023. Positioned as the SUV counterpart to the EQS sedan, the X296 leverages the dedicated electric vehicle architecture to deliver a spacious, technologically advanced, and luxurious driving experience. The EQS 450 4MATIC, equipped with a 120 kWh battery pack and delivering 360 horsepower, served as a key variant within the initial lineup, offering a balance between range, performance, and price. It competes directly with other luxury electric SUVs such as the BMW iX, Tesla Model X, and Cadillac Lyriq.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EQS SUV |
| Generation | EQS SUV (X296) |
| Type (Engine) | EQS 450 120 kWh (360 Hp) 4MATIC |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| End of production | October, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 293 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 120 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 108.4 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 396 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| Recuperation output | 290 kW |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 507-613 km (315.04 – 380.9 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 20-24 kWh/100 km (32.19 – 38.62 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 105 – 87 |
| km/kWh | 5 – 4.2 |
| mi/kWh | 3.1 – 2.6 |
| System power | 360 Hp |
| System torque | 800 Nm (590.05 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2730 kg (6018.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3375 kg (7440.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 645 kg (1421.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2100 l (74.16 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5125 mm (201.77 in.) |
| Width | 1959 mm (77.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2157 mm (84.92 in.) |
| Height | 1718 mm (67.64 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1668 mm (65.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1681 mm (66.18 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1010 mm (39.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 178 mm (7.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18.6° |
| Departure angle | 18.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 13.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), 4-wheel steering (4WS, active rear steering) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/50 R20; 275/45 R21; 275/40 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 9.5J x 21; 9.5J x 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The EQS 450 4MATIC utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. Each motor independently powers an axle, providing on-demand torque distribution for optimal traction. The electric motors themselves are permanent magnet synchronous motors, known for their efficiency and power density. The 120 kWh battery pack, composed of lithium-ion cells, is positioned low in the vehicle floor to lower the center of gravity and improve handling. The battery management system (BMS) is crucial for maintaining optimal battery health, temperature, and performance. The EQS 450 features a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of electric vehicles, as the electric motors provide instant torque across a wide range of speeds. The recuperation system allows for regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration and returning it to the battery, enhancing range.
Driving Characteristics
The EQS 450 4MATIC delivers smooth and quiet acceleration, characteristic of electric vehicles. With 360 horsepower and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, it achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 5.7 seconds. While not the quickest variant in the EQS SUV lineup, the 450 provides ample power for everyday driving and highway merging. The single-speed transmission offers seamless power delivery, and the AWD system provides confident handling in various weather conditions. The air suspension contributes to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. Compared to higher-performance EQS SUV models, the 450 prioritizes efficiency and comfort over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EQS 450 4MATIC came standard with a high level of equipment, reflecting its luxury positioning. Standard features included the MBUX Hyperscreen, a massive curved OLED display spanning the dashboard, premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included rear-axle steering, massaging seats, augmented reality head-up display, and various interior trim options. Trim levels were relatively streamlined, with options primarily focused on adding individual features rather than distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The EQS SUV utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles, enhanced by air suspension with adaptive damping. This system allows for adjustable ride height and firmness, optimizing comfort and handling. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control. The EQS 450 also features 4-wheel steering, which enhances maneuverability at low speeds and stability at high speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The EQS 450 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that its acceleration was not as brisk as some competitors, and its price point was relatively high. Compared to the EQS 580 4MATIC, the 450 offered a more affordable entry point into the EQS SUV lineup, sacrificing some performance for improved efficiency. Its real-world range typically fell within the 300-350 mile range, depending on driving conditions and usage. Fuel economy, expressed in MPGe, ranged from 87 to 105, making it competitive with other luxury electric SUVs.
Legacy
The EQS 450 4MATIC represents a significant step forward in Mercedes-Benz’s electric vehicle strategy. While early model years have experienced some software glitches, the overall reliability of the powertrain has been generally good. On the used car market, the EQS 450 4MATIC holds its value relatively well, reflecting its desirability and advanced features. The X296 platform and its associated technology will likely influence future Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles for years to come, establishing a benchmark for luxury and innovation in the EV segment.
