EQS SUV is Mercedes' new electric flagship

Coming straight in at the top of the Mercedes tree, the EQS is the high-riding alternative to the previously unveiled EQS saloon and the latest in a series of fully-electric launches by the German marque that completes the Mercedes EQ SUV range, for now.

Three versions will be available from launch: a ‘basic’ rear-wheel-drive EQS 450+ powered by a 360PS (265kW) electric motor developing 568Nm (441lb ft) of torque, a mid-range EQS 450 4MATIC adds all-wheel-drive and lifts the torque figure to 800Nm (590lb ft), and the EQS 580 4MATIC bumps the power output to 544PS (400kW) and 858Nm (633lb ft) of torque.

It makes use of the same 107.8kWh battery found in the EQS saloon, which Mercedes says makes the SUV good for between 315-410 miles of range depending on spec. Actual performance figures are yet to be revealed, but Mercedes says a 10 to 80 per cent charge is achievable in 31 minutes with fast charging.

It’s clear Mercedes has seen fit to prioritise luxury and comfort, which is no more than we would expect from a flagship ‘S’ model. The EQS SUV shares the same long wheelbase platform as the EQS saloon, but stands more than 20cm taller and benefits from an even more spacious interior.

The availability of seven-seats will also appeal to larger families, although we are already picturing the scuffle for the middle row of seats, because these are electrically adjustable.

The inclusion of air suspension and adjustable damping indicate Mercedes have placed a high price on ride comfort, while interior tech levels are on a par with the EQS saloon. The MBUX infotainment system is responsible for controlling temperature and media, and even includes a 12.3-inch screen for a passenger to entertain themselves without bothering the driver. Much like in thew EQS saloon, the EQS SUV is supported by over-the-air updates, so you can activate things like Augmented Reality Navigation when the feeling suits you.

It's difficult to picture this luxury cruiser venturing into the wild, but a four-wheel-drive version is available with an offroad driving mode, while rear-axle steering makes for a 11-metre turning circle, which ought to go some way towards aiding manoeuvrability in tight spaces. This can also be upgraded with an over-the-air update.

We’ll wait to hear just how much the EQS SUV is going to cost, and in the meantime, we’re going to spend time considering whether this is a car we’d rather drive, or be driven in. Let us know what you think.