The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC, produced from May 2022 to April 2024, represents a significant entry point into the flagship EQS (V297) all-electric liftback range. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the initial EQS lineup, it balances performance, range, and luxury features, appealing to buyers seeking a premium electric vehicle experience without the top-tier price tag of the EQS 580. The EQS 450 4MATIC utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain and a substantial 120 kWh battery pack, establishing it as a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s push towards electric mobility and a direct competitor to vehicles like the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EQS |
| Generation | EQS (V297) |
| Type (Engine) | EQS 450 120 kWh (360 Hp) 4MATIC |
| Start of production | May, 2022 |
| End of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 315 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 weight | 692 kg (1525.6 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 580-719 km (360.4 – 446.77 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 17.2-21.3 kWh/100 km (27.68 – 34.28 kWh/100 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Synchronous |
| System power | 360 Hp |
| System torque | 800 Nm (590.05 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2540-2555 kg (5599.74 – 5632.81 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3060 kg (6746.15 lbs) |
| Max load | 505-520 kg (1113.33 – 1146.4 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 610 l (21.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1770 l (62.51 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs) |
| Length | 5216 mm (205.35 in) |
| Width | 1926 mm (75.83 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2125 mm (83.66 in) |
| Height | 1512 mm (59.53 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3210 mm (126.38 in) |
| Front track | 1667 mm (65.63 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1682 mm (66.22 in) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.20 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft) |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 235/55 R19; 255/45 R20; 265/40 R21; 265/35 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 9.5J x 21; 9.5J x 22 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The EQS 450 4MATIC utilizes a dual-motor, fully electric powertrain. Each axle features a permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM), a design favored for its high efficiency and power density. These motors are powered by a 120 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing a usable capacity of 108.4 kWh. The battery pack is positioned low in the vehicle floor, contributing to a low center of gravity and improved handling. The electrical architecture operates at 396 volts. The powertrain doesn’t utilize a traditional multi-speed gearbox; instead, it employs a single-speed reduction gear for each axle. The motors deliver instant torque, characteristic of electric vehicles, and are managed by sophisticated power electronics to optimize efficiency and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The EQS 450 4MATIC offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. With 360 horsepower and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, it achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 5.3 seconds. While not as aggressively quick as the higher-performance EQS 580, the 450 provides ample acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions. The air suspension contributes to a smooth ride, effectively isolating passengers from road imperfections. The single-speed transmission provides seamless acceleration, although it lacks the distinct gear changes of a conventional automatic. Regenerative braking is adjustable, allowing drivers to tailor the level of deceleration when lifting off the accelerator, enhancing efficiency and extending range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EQS 450 4MATIC came standard with a high level of equipment, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s luxury positioning. Standard features included the MBUX Hyperscreen, a massive curved OLED display spanning the dashboard, providing access to infotainment, navigation, and vehicle settings. Premium upholstery options, such as leather and microfiber, were available. Other standard features included a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included rear-axle steering, massaging seats, and augmented reality head-up display. Trim levels generally focused on interior finishes and aesthetic enhancements rather than significant performance upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The EQS 450 4MATIC features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles, coupled with an air suspension system. This combination provides a comfortable ride and precise handling. The air suspension automatically adjusts ride height based on speed and driving conditions, optimizing aerodynamics and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The EQS incorporates regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy during deceleration and extend range. Standard safety features include ABS, electronic stability control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The EQS 450 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, comfortable ride, and impressive range. However, some reviewers noted that its acceleration wasn’t as exhilarating as some competitors, and the price point remained relatively high. Compared to the EQS 580, the 450 offered a more accessible entry point into the EQS range, sacrificing some performance for a lower price. Its fuel economy, measured in MPGe, was competitive with other luxury electric vehicles. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although, as with any new technology, long-term durability remains under evaluation.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC established itself as a significant player in the burgeoning luxury electric vehicle market. Its advanced technology, comfortable ride, and long range helped to redefine expectations for electric sedans. On the used car market, the EQS 450 4MATIC holds its value relatively well, reflecting its desirability and the ongoing demand for electric vehicles. The powertrain, while complex, has demonstrated reasonable reliability in early model years. As battery technology continues to evolve, the EQS 450 4MATIC represents an important step in Mercedes-Benz’s transition to an all-electric future.
