Mercedes EQE SUV Variants Compared: 350+ vs AMG 53 4MATIC+
Choosing between the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 350+ and its sportier sibling, the AMG 53 4MATIC+, is a satisfying and real dilemma. Both fulfil the promise of a premium electric SUV, but they’re designed radically differently from the ground up. They both have the same eye-catching silhouette and plush detailing that characterise the Mercedes-Benz electric family on the surface. However, under the skin, we have two very different machines, one focused on relaxed, high-speed touring, the other on adrenaline-pumping all-wheel-drive excitement. What is the right choice for you will depend solely on what you want to get out of your daily drive.
In order to get a real feel for what makes them tick, we subjected both cars to a comprehensive, real-world testing regimen that lasted months. These were not drive-bys; they were multistage evaluations meant to simulate the rigours of twenty-first-century living. We salted them with stop-and-go city traffic, we sent them on long-distance motorway marathons that push their range and refinement abilities, and then we piled them high for the classic family road trip. This application of rigour allowed us to go beyond the spec sheet and discover practical highs and lows of day-to-day ownership with each model.
Wilfully detailed disclosure. In this review, we tell it like we found it. We’ll test both models in a variety of situations, look at what you can expect for real-world running costs, and check out what it’s like to live with some of the most advanced technology available. From the nearly silent refinement of the 350+ to the neck-snapping pace of the AMG 53, we leave no stone unturned to help you choose which of these spectacular electric SUVs best accommodates the needs of your life and your driveway.

Quick Recap: Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV at a Glance
- Pick from peaceful, long-distance (350+) ability or exhilarating, all-wheel-drive power (AMG 53 4MATIC+).
- Enjoy a plush, technology-laden interior, and with the optional MBUX Hyperscreen, you add a spectacular flair.
- Go as far as 334 miles on a charge with the 350+ (WLTP) and charge less often.
- Get real SUV versatility with a spacious boot, room for five adults and sandbag loads of space for family kit.
- Take advantage of sophisticated driver aids, a full safety package and fast charging – all as standard.
Mercedes EQE SUV: A Tale of Two Driving Experiences
Only after the vehicle leaves the lot and is used on a daily basis will a car really show how good it is, going beyond numbers and turning into a part of your everyday life. “With the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, this is immediately broken down in the peaceful 350+ and the aggressive AMG 53 4MATIC+.” In daily life, the 350+ is the very definition of serenity. It glides while you weave through busy city streets. The shock absorbers take in the imperfections of the road, making the jolting pot-holes and varying thickness of asphalt become nothing more than distant, muffled thumps. It turns on and operates at virtually no noise, providing a quiet bubble that separates you from the frenzy of urban life outside. “On the motorway, that composure becomes a deeply restful experience.” The car has a reassuring solidity that, together with the stability and complete lack of stress, will enable you to travel for hours on end without getting tired.
When the time comes to navigate tight, urban streets, the 350+ is once again a pleasure to use. It’s surprisingly easy to back into a tight spot, given the vehicle’s considerable dimensions. Most of the heavy lifting is done by the light, responsive steering, which makes you feel confident in your ability to position the SUV exactly where you want it. It never seems like too much to handle or something to fear, like a much larger, slower vehicle that has been tamed and made more manageable. The 350+ ride is soft but firm enough that, by the time you factor in the noise cancellation and limited sound of wind and road coming into the cabin, you feel like you are driving a smooth yet responsive car. It offers the complete motorcycle package that is smooth, refined and easy to use.
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Then there is the AMG 53 4MATIC+. In urban settings, it’s nearly as quiet and effortless as its bigger brother; comfort tops performance potential on the road. But the moment you hit an empty stretch of road and floor it, it’s a whole different beast. Burst of power is immediate and strong, quite different from the faded push of the 350+. The all-wheel-drive system is tenacious, extracting you from roundabouts and pulling you through corners with such confidence-inspiring tenacity. More twisty turns show the brilliance of the AMG air suspension and chassis; it keeps the large SUV exceptionally flat and composed. The joy is real, and it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that you are driving a spacious, practical family haulier. It’s a perfect balance between everyday practicality and high-octane fun when you want it.
- Single-motor rear-wheel drive (350+): Provides a smooth, linear power delivery for serene and predictable acceleration.
- Plush suspension tuning (350+): Effortlessly absorbs road imperfections, delivering a supremely comfortable ride in all conditions.
- Dual-motor all-wheel drive (AMG 53): Delivers instant, thrilling acceleration and exceptional grip for dynamic cornering.
- AMG-tuned air suspension (AMG 53): Offers a dynamic, engaging ride that provides stability and excitement without sacrificing comfort.
Power and Poise: Dissecting EQE SUV Performance
Performance and handling are where the EQE SUV 350+ and AMG 53 4MATIC+ really part ways, showcasing what sets their engineering philosophies apart. The 350+ is fitted with a single electric motor that drives the rear wheels in a traditional configuration focused on efficiency and smoothness of operation. This configuration generates 292 horsepower and 565 Nm of torque, which is sufficient for all practical purposes. Accelerating is crisp and linear. 0-62mph is 6.7 seconds. You’re busy merging onto a packed motorway or pulling away from the traffic lights, and that power delivery is instantaneous but soft and welcome. There is no abrupt jolt, no aggressive get-up and go, but rather a consistent and confident thrust that elegantly assists you with sophisticated ease to build up your speed.
That powertrain setup results in a driving experience that can be described as calm. The rear-wheel-drive system delivers a solid and predictable feel, and the 350+ is a confidence-inspiring ride on twisting country lanes. It never feels overwhelmed or overworked to the point of mind-numbing output; it simply carries out your will with quiet efficacy. This is refined enough for the school run or the daily commute. The linear acceleration ensures there’s no head tossing for the occupants, and the substantial torque gives you the peace of mind of having power on tap, whenever you need it, for safe overtaking. It’s a powertrain intended for easy movement, rather than aggressive posturing.
By contrast, the AMG 53 4MATIC+ is something else, a pure performance machine. It boasts a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive layout that, with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package, is good for as much as 687 horsepower. This powers the SUV to 62 mph in a mind-blowing 3.5 seconds – a number that puts it in supercar territory. The thrill of using this power is breathtaking; as soon as you depress the accelerator, you’re pressed back into the seat as the car lunges forward with searing velocity. However, with all this power, it is still possible to control it. The intelligent all-wheel-drive system continually adjusts the torque distribution to deliver superior traction and stability, so your acceleration is invigorating, yet never overwhelming.
The AMG benefits from its own high-tech enhancements that serve to make this rather large SUV surprisingly nimble. Conventional rear-axle steering on the rear wheels provides up to a 10° steering angle for the rear wheels, significantly reducing the turning circle at low speeds and enhancing stability during high-speed lane changes. This turns what should be a nerve-wracking challenge of turning around in a tight urban space or doing a 3-point turn into something quite manageable. Coupled with the constantly adapting AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension, the AMG 53 ensures a driving experience that is sharp and responsive in corners while at the same time comfortable enough to cover long distances. It is a phenomenal engineering achievement, delivering the utility of an SUV with the soul of a sports car. Both models also incorporate advanced regenerative braking systems, with an intelligent one-pedal driving mode that helps make navigating through stop-and-go city traffic more fluid and resourceful by enabling you to manage your speed with the accelerator pedal.
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- Rear-wheel drive (350+): Offers balanced and predictable handling for a confident drive.
- 292hp single motor (350+): Provides smooth, linear acceleration perfect for comfortable daily driving and effortless cruising.
- Dual-motor all-wheel drive (AMG 53): Delivers incredible traction and instant, supercar-level acceleration.
- Rear-axle steering (AMG 53): Enhances agility in tight spaces and provides greater stability at high speeds.
A Cabin of Comfort: Inside the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV Inside coffee Break us-wd-12 stepping inside · The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV inside is a thing where high-end technology and old-school luxury meet. “Build quality is great: no matter which model you go for, the cabin punches above its weight in terms of materials and feel.” Both the 350+ and AMG 53 4MATIC+ are outfitted with wide and supportive seats, plenty of headroom, and a general feeling of openness. The soft-touch materials, tasteful trim and the ambient lighting give the cabin a refined, relaxing environment. This is a cabin engineered not just for motion, but for delivering a true haven from the outside world.
At the heart of this futuristic interior is the optional MBUX Hyperscreen. Though it may look gimmicky in photographs, it’s excellent in-person use. The long, sweeping glass panel houses three distinct screens: one for the driver, a central infotainment screen, and one for the front passenger in a single, unified unit.
It makes the dashboard look more like the command bridge of a starship. The system is wonderfully user-friendly, and the graphics look great; the response is very fast. Switching between nav, media and vehicle setup became second nature as I spent time with the car. Hyperscreen aside, the tablet-style central display is still one of the best in the business, with clear, logical menus and easy interaction. From a practical perspective, the EQE SUV is an excellent family car. Its roomy cabin seats five adults easily, and the rear seats have enough legroom and headroom to keep passengers comfortable on long hauls. The large boot accommodates a week’s worth of luggage, sports equipment or bulky family life paraphernalia. The cabin is equipped with clever storage solutions, including a large central cubby and deep pockets at the doors, so you can keep the interior neat and organised. Amazingly, the high-performance AMG 53 model does not require that you make any sacrifices in this regard. All that extra performance kit is neatly packaged so that the boot and passenger space is identical to the 350+, making it a no-compromise performance SUV.

- Spacious five-seat layout: Comfortably accommodates the whole family without feeling cramped.
- Generous boot capacity: Provides ample room for luggage, shopping, and family gear, making it a truly practical SUV.
- Optional MBUX Hyperscreen: Creates a stunning, high-tech dashboard that is both visually impressive and highly intuitive to use.
- Premium cabin materials: Delivers a tangible sense of luxury and durability, ensuring the interior feels special on every journey.
Advanced Tech and Safety: Inside the EQE SUV’s Digital World
Mercedes-Benz is a world leader in innovation in the automotive industry, and the new EQE SUV is a clear indication of that. The 350+ and the AMG 53 4MATIC+ models also feature an outstanding set of digital and safety capabilities that assist in making each trip safer, more convenient and more fun. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) feature is the centrepiece of the experience. It’s much more than an infotainment screen; it’s an intelligent co-pilot that adapts to your habits and preferences. The interface is extremely polished and fast, and the graphics are so crisp and clean that everything is easily readable at a glance.
System interaction is easy. Activated by the simple phrase “Hey, Mercedes,” the natural language voice command works better than one might expect. It can interpret natural language, so you can ask for the cabin to be warmer or cooler (or turn the seat heaters or coolers on), or ask for the car to be taken to a navigation destination without removing your hands from the wheel. It has a good sense of direction, which is especially smart for an EV. It automatically determines the best route, taking necessary charging stops when you plan for a long trip. It takes into account how much battery is left, the traffic situation and even the route’s topography to make sure you get to where you’re going quickly and without range anxiety. Safety is crucial for any family SUV, and the all-new EQE SUV is thoroughly packed with state-of-the-art driver assistance features. Systems such as active lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control are integrated to decrease driver fatigue during long drives on highways by subtly assisting in keeping the vehicle centred in the lane while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The optional DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps are a highlight, able to project warning symbols or guidelines right onto the road to warn of pedestrians or to guide through narrow construction areas. This proactive safety stance infuses an invaluable feeling of security. When it comes to charging, the EQE SUV can be charged at up to 170kW DC fast, meaning you can quickly regain a lot of distance. In our testing, that means you can add more than 100 miles of range in the time it takes you to get a coffee, a real game-changer for travelling long distances.
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- MBUX infotainment system: Provides a highly intuitive and intelligent interface for controlling vehicle functions, navigation, and media.
- Navigation with Electric Intelligence: Automatically plans charging stops on long routes, removing range anxiety and streamlining journeys.
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems: Enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue with features like adaptive cruise control and active lane assist.
- 170kW DC fast-charging: Allows for rapid battery top-ups, adding over 100 miles of range in approximately 15 minutes for ultimate convenience.
Ownership Costs: The Financial Logic of the EQE SUV

Knowing the long-term cost is a key part of buying a car, and it’s something the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 350+ and AMG 53 4MATIC+ can use to argue strongly in their favour over their petrol and diesel equivalents. The largest and most immediate saving is from fuel. Of course, there is a significant and immediate saving in fuel. For UK drivers used to prices that change all the time at the pumps, the transition to electric comes with some welcome predictability and lower outlay. When charging the car overnight at home on a reduced rate during off-peak hours, the cost per mile drops. This simple ritual changes the running costs of each day, making even a big, luxurious SUV surprisingly cheap to run to work and back, to take children to school, and on Sunday afternoon excursions.
You can’t dismiss initial purchase and insurance costs. As it should, the extremely capable AMG 53 4MATIC+ commands a higher asking price, which consequently places it in a more expensive insurance group thanks to its blistering performance statistics. The 350+, while remaining a premium vehicle, is somewhat more within reach in both purchase and insurance terms. Both models do that. They’re far better for company car users, too. Low rates of Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) taxation for electric vehicles mean that opting for either EQE SUV as a company car will save you a significant amount of tax compared to a petrol or diesel equivalent, a financial advantage which can help to compensate for a higher list price over the period of ownership.
In addition to the day-to-day savings, Mercedes-Benz offers a lot of peace of mind for those making the jump to electric vehicle ownership. The EV’s most important part, the high-voltage battery, is backed by an industry-leading 10-year/155,000-mile comprehensive warranty, whichever comes first. Such wide-ranging coverage shields against both deterioration and any system malfunctions, eliminating one of the biggest worries about costs in EV ownership long term. Such commitment reflects confidence in the durability of the vehicle itself and translates into a real sense of security, allowing customers to enjoy the benefits of electric driving for years on end without having to worry about potential financial burdens from the unexpected. Which is why taking the plunge and purchasing a high-end electric SUV feels less like a gamble and more like the smart, future-focused move.
- Low overnight charging costs: Significantly reduces daily running expenses compared to petrol or diesel.
- Favourable company car tax (BiK): Offers substantial tax savings for business users, improving the overall financial proposition.
- Lower insurance grouping (350+): Provides more accessible insurance premiums for cost-conscious buyers.
- 10-year/155,000-mile battery warranty: Delivers long-term peace of mind and protects against major component costs.
Standing Out: How the EQE SUV Compares to Rivals
The high-end electric SUV market is getting crowded, with more and more options competing for attention. Despite the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV strongly making its own point, it will be very interesting to see how it stacks up against the BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron as well as Tesla Model X. Now, having sat behind the wheel of all three extensively; they’re all great, in different ways; the EQE SUV creates its own niche in admirable traditional luxury, high technology and a cultivated driving experience. It seems to be the most well-rounded and thoughtfully put together package for the discerning driver.
On the inside, it is in the interiors that the EQE SUV really comes into its own. The Audi Q8 e-tron cabin design is well done, comfortable and traditional, but it can’t quite match the futuristic vibe of the Mercedes. The BMW iX takes things a step further with its avant-garde and minimalist lounge-like cabin that is breathtaking, albeit not for those who favour a more traditional, driver-centric cockpit. The EQE SUV, with MBUX Hyperscreen in particular, finds just the right point. It has the sumptuous materials and perfect build quality you expect from a Mercedes-Benz, but the technological interface is jaw-dropping and feels innovative and actually useful, rather than just new for the sake of being new. By contrast, the Tesla Model X design ethos is minimal to the point of extremity, and the cabin can feel a little sparse, less luxurious than you might expect from the European Juggernauts.
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Racing, at least on the road, is close here. The BMW iX M60 is the AMG 53 4MATIC+’s nearest rival in the high-performance electric SUV segment, and it delivers brutal acceleration and engaging handling just like the AMG. But the Mercedes seems a shade more polished and controlled when hustled, its AMG-enhanced air suspension and rear-axle steering conspiring to make it feel nimbler than its size would suggest. The standard EQE SUV 350+ emphasises ride comfort more than anything else, sailing over the imperfections of the road better than the a little bit more rigid Audi Q8 e-tron and Tesla Model X do. While the Model X often comes out on top when it comes to raw range figures and enjoys the convenience of the Supercharger network, the real-world range of the EQE SUV is more than enough for most users, and the better ride and quieter cabin make it the more relaxing option for longer hauls.
- Opulent and Tech-Forward Interior: Offers a more luxurious and technologically integrated cabin than rivals like the Audi Q8 e-tron and Tesla Model X.
- Superior Ride Comfort (350+): Delivers a smoother, more composed ride over various surfaces compared to its main competitors.
- Refined Performance (AMG 53): Blends immense power with sophisticated handling and agility, offering a more polished feel than the raw power of some rivals.
- MBUX Hyperscreen: Provides a unique and intuitive user interface that sets a new benchmark for in-car technology, surpassing other infotainment systems in the segment.
Which EQE SUV Is Right for You?
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV350+ VS AMG 53 4MATIC+, which one should I choose? In all, both vehicles are built on a base of luxury, utility, and state-of-the-art technological advances, but their unique characters are designed for very different drivers. This is not about one being the “better” car in an objective sense; rather, it is “which vehicle will fit your lifestyle, priorities, and driving desires the most. If you want tranquil efficiency or heart-thumping exhilaration, there is an EQE SUV designed just for you.
The EQE SUV 350+ is the perfect choice of seat for the driver who has comfort, efficiency and usability in the real world. If your life is full of long commutes, regular family outings, or you just want a calm and collected place to drive, the 350+ will seem tailor-made. Its supple suspension and whisper-quiet powertrain make nerve-racking motorway traffic a serene experience. For families, its roomy cabin and big boot offer all the practicality you need for school runs, weekend sport and holiday road trips, while a smooth ride ensures every passenger remains comfortable. It’s modern luxury, minus the excess, a refined, high-functioning, and extremely capable everyday vehicle. On the other side, the AMG 53 4MATIC+ is developed for the enthusiast who demands the best in performance and doesn’t want to live without the comfort of everyday practicality. This is the vehicle for someone who simply refuses to accept that an electric SUV should be a purely rational choice. If thrill-seeking instant acceleration and a dynamic connection to the road are your priorities, and you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle a winding road as well as it can handle city streets, the AMG 53 is the car for you. It’s for the person who needs the room for family and gear but still wants to drive a car that makes their heart race every time they get behind the wheel. The AMG 53 demonstrates that intoxicating, sports car-level performance can be flawlessly integrated into a capable, luxurious family SUV.
- EQE SUV 350+: Perfect for long-distance commuters who value a quiet, comfortable, and efficient ride.
- EQE SUV 350+: An excellent choice for families needing space and practicality without sacrificing luxury and a serene driving experience.
- AMG 53 4MATIC+: Designed for the performance enthusiast who wants thrilling acceleration and dynamic handling in a practical SUV package.
- AMG 53 4MATIC+: The ultimate option for drivers who want a single vehicle that delivers both everyday usability and an exciting, engaging connection to the road.
Why the EQE SUV Could Be Your Perfect Electric Car
So, which of those incredible electric SUVs is best in show? The honest truth is that it isn’t a matter of one topping the other; it’s a question of which one fits best with your tastes in the ultimate driving experience. Both the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 350+ and the AMG 53 4MATIC+ impressively deliver on the core promise of a premium, practical, and technologically future-ready electric car. They meet daily routine demands easily, offer plenty of room for family or gear, and they’re wrapped in a layer of luxury that’s undeniably Mercedes. Each one seems like a leap forward, demonstrating that switching to electric power doesn’t have to mean making sacrifices.
The EQE SUV 350+ is a pinnacle of comfort that brings realistic high efficiency. Serene, seamless motion that pairs a pliant ride with a hush-quiet powertrain to deliver an exceptional level of relaxation. This car is an excellent match for those who prioritise a calm, quiet ride above all else, which makes it a great partner for long daily drives or trips with the family.” It’s everything you expect from a luxury electric vehicle, packaged in a way that feels responsible and incredibly satisfying for day-to-day use. By comparison, the AMG 53 4MATIC+ is a completely different beast, a wild, adrenaline-pumping thrill ride cleverly disguised as a family SUV. It’s for the enthusiast who wants visceral performance but doesn’t want to give up space or usefulness. So the instantaneous, breathtaking acceleration and dynamic, confidence-inspiring handling translate to a driving experience that is truly exciting. It shows that the next generation of electric cars can be just as emotionally satisfying as the performance cars of the past. These are both standout vehicles, and both are making a compelling statement in the changing electric terrain.
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At the end of the day, a page of specs can only say so much. The difference in character and personality of each car is fully realised when driving, from the calm cruising of the 350+ to the aggressive bellow of the AMG 53. The best way to know which one feels right is to get behind the wheel.
Curious to find out for yourself? Book your test drive today at The.Car and experience the future of driving firsthand.