2023 MERCEDES-BENZ EQS-CLASS SUV | 4JGDM2EB3PA029021

Body Styles

The EQS-Class is available in two distinct all-electric body styles: the EQS Sedan (V297) and the EQS SUV (X296). The sedan introduced a radically smooth fastback silhouette with an ultra-low 0.20 drag coefficient — the most aerodynamic production car globally at launch. Its cab-forward proportions, frameless doors, and clamshell hood marked a clean departure from traditional S-Class lines, emphasizing range efficiency and modernity. Meanwhile, the EQS SUV, with its upright posture and higher roofline, offers three-row seating (optional), increased ground clearance, and a more traditional luxury SUV profile with short overhangs and EQ-specific closed-off grille panels.

Despite distinct proportions, both EQS models share the same modular EVA2 electric platform, integrating large battery packs under the floor, rear-axle steering, air suspension, and active safety systems. The SUV trades aerodynamic purity for versatility, with raised ride height and configurable seating, while retaining the tech-forward ethos of its sedan sibling.

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

“EQS” merges EQ — Mercedes’ electric sub-brand — with the traditional S-Class designation, signaling that this is the flagship EV within the lineup. Like the S-Class, the EQS serves as a technology halo, introducing innovations in propulsion, digital interface, and autonomous driving. “580” or “450+” refer to power levels, not engine displacement, reflecting Mercedes' shift toward performance-based numbering in the EV era. The suffix “4MATIC” indicates dual-motor all-wheel drive, while “AMG” and “Maybach” signify performance and ultra-luxury variants respectively.

Model Name Meaning (Languages)

“EQ” stands for Electric Intelligence (from the German “Elektrische Intelligenz”), a branding term denoting Mercedes-Benz’s future-forward electric models. The letter “S” continues to symbolize Sonderklasse, or "special class," rooted in German automotive tradition. The naming convention is designed to be globally legible, with “EQS” universally understood as the electric counterpart to the S-Class, across English, German, Chinese, and beyond — blending heritage with innovation.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The EQS lineup is offered in a refined and futuristic palette of exterior colors including Obsidian Black, Sodalite Blue, MANUFAKTUR Diamond White, Nautic Blue, and Graphite Grey. AMG and Maybach variants gain access to exclusive tones like Alpine Grey, Night Black Magno, or two-tone finishes (e.g. Cirrus Silver with Obsidian Black roof). All EQS models come with gloss black trim, aerodynamic flush door handles, and either bright or darkened accents depending on package selection.

Inside, the EQS redefines digital luxury with the MBUX Hyperscreen — a 56-inch curved glass surface spanning the dashboard, housing three OLED displays. Ambient lighting encircles the cabin in 64 colors with multizone control, while trim options range from natural grain woods and laser-etched aluminum to AMG carbon fiber and Maybach white piano lacquer. Upholstery includes Neva Grey, Macchiato Beige, Sable Brown, or AMG-exclusive black Nappa with red contrast stitching. The Maybach SUV adds diamond-quilted leather, cushions, rear lounge seats with calf massage, and a refrigerator with champagne flutes — all trimmed in rose gold and crystal-look glass controls.

Wheel designs span 20- to 22-inch options, including AMG multispoke aero wheels, turbine-style alloys, and Maybach-exclusive monoblock designs. Many feature polished aluminum faces with gloss black inserts or matte finishes, optimized for drag reduction. Rear-axle steering varies from 4.5° to 10° depending on rim size and package, allowing the EQS to maneuver like a much smaller vehicle despite its size.

Top Expensive Options

• MBUX Hyperscreen (standard on 580 and AMG): $7,200 (optional on 450+)
• Executive Rear Seat Package (SUV): $3,500
• Burmester 4D Surround Sound with vibrating seats: $6,730
• AMG Night Package and aerodynamic upgrades: $2,400
• Energizing Air Control Plus + HEPA filtration: $990
• Two-tone MANUFAKTUR paint (Maybach): $12,000
• Active Ambient Lighting with sound-reactive display: $1,100
• Maybach First-Class Rear Lounge Package: $5,200
• Digital Light LED Headlamps with projection function: $1,900
• 22” AMG Forged Wheels or Maybach Monoblock wheels: $3,000–$5,000

vs Competitors

The EQS-Class competes at the top of the luxury EV segment, with the EQS Sedan rivaling the Tesla Model S, Lucid Air, and BMW i7, while the EQS SUV squares off against the Tesla Model X, BMW iX, and Rivian R1S. Against the Model S, the EQS offers superior cabin quality, a more refined ride, and broader customization, though the Tesla wins on acceleration and charging infrastructure. Compared to the Lucid Air, the EQS counters with better build quality, smoother software, and superior dealer support, while Lucid leads in range and raw performance.

The SUV version trades blows with the Model X Plaid in space and straight-line pace but outshines it in interior craftsmanship and tech ambiance. Versus the BMW iX, the EQS SUV feels more traditional and luxurious, with better visibility and a more intuitive layout. In the ultra-luxury space, the Maybach EQS SUV stands alone — offering amenities and rear comfort that eclipse even the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid or Rolls-Royce Spectre in serene electric travel.

Fun Fact

The Mercedes EQS was the first production car in the world to achieve a drag coefficient of just 0.20, helping it reach over 770 km (479 miles) of WLTP range in 450+ trim — and it’s also the first Mercedes to offer rear-wheel steering up to 10 degrees as standard on select trims, allowing a turning radius shorter than the A-Class hatchback despite its 5+ meter length.