2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV: Hyper is the Word

Carlsbad, California—After launching its own versions of the EQS and EQE sedans, AMG is ready for its first fully electric SUV, which makes perfect sense when you consider where the market is at now.

Mercedes’ performance sub-brand decided to go with the midsize EQE SUV instead of the larger EQS SUV due to its more agile footprint.

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Visually, the big, three-pointed star on the grille is complemented by the AMG logo on the edge of the hood. This sets the tone for the rest of the body, which has a more aggressive look with revised fenders and unique 21- or 22-inch alloy wheels. The standard Digital Light headlamps feature a specific AMG projection when unlocking and locking the vehicle.

Hyperscreen

The interior similarly receives a special AMG treatment starting with sport seats with individual graphics and special seat covers in Artico synthetic leather (real Nappa leather is optional). The two-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel features numerous controls with haptic feedback. Also available is the German automaker’s MBUX Hyperscreen, which combines three displays under a single, dashboard-wide glass surface. The graphics naturally have a distinct appearance in typical AMG fashion.

The standard Dolby Atmos sound system takes music to a new level, creating a 360-degree experience. A Burmester premium audio system is optional. On a practical note, cargo capacity is a very modest 580 litres. Folding the rear seats will get you a total of 1,675 litres.

Hyper Speed

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV delivers spectacular performance, whether accelerating from a full stop or passing slower vehicles. That’s particularly the case when equipped with the Dynamic Plus Package, which increases output from 617 hp to 677 hp and peak torque from 700 lb-ft. to 738 lb-ft. The result is 0-100 km/h sprints in just 3.5 seconds, while top speed is up from 220 km/h to 240 km/h. The AMG-specific electric motors use adapted windings, different laminations, higher currents and adapted inverters. They’re a real treat to exploit.

Drivers have five different modes to choose from, with Sport and Sport Plus elevating the soundtrack accordingly. Using the AMG steering wheel buttons or the central display, they can also select the sound characteristics "Balanced", "Sport" and "Powerful" in each drive mode.

The 90.6kWh battery, meanwhile, is said to provide a range of 370 km based on EPA standards. Due to the 400V architecture, DC fast charging capability is limited at 170 kW, which doesn’t match Tesla or Korean rivals. As for towing, the AMG EQE SUV is good for 1,800 kg (3,968 lbs) with a braked trailer, 750 kg (1,653 lbs) otherwise.

Hyper Handling

The vehicle is blessed with an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive system that continuously distributes torque between the front and rear axles depending on the situation. In fact, torque is checked 160 times per second and adjusted if necessary. Traction is never a problem, like when shooting out of a corner. Despite the curb weight of 2,690 kg, handling is surprisingly good thanks to the standard adaptive air suspension and active rear-axle steering.

The adaptive damping system uses two pressure-limiting valves located outside the dampers, allowing the damping force to be adjusted even more precisely. At the same time, active roll stabilization technology compensates body movements electromechanically. The sway bars on the front and rear axles are divided into two parts. In the centre is an electromechanical actuator that actively separates the halves on uneven surfaces, which increases ride comfort. During dynamic driving, the halves join together to significantly reduce body roll.

The interaction between front-axle and rear-axle steering is designed to improve agility with minimal steering effort. At speeds below 60 km/h, the rear wheels turn up to nine degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. They pivot in the same direction at higher speeds to maximize stability. This makes the vehicle rock-solid in sporty driving conditions.

Hyper Price

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV goes on sale later this summer. Exact pricing details have yet to be announced by Mercedes-Benz Canada, but look for it to start at around $130,000.

Watch: 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE 4MATIC+ First Drive Review