2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV Reshapes the Definition of an AMG

There’s a synergy within the working association between Mercedes-Benz and its AMG subsidiary. The previous focuses on core mannequin improvement for widespread attraction, whereas the latter is tasked with extracting most efficiency from the platform for discerning clients searching for a heightened visceral expertise.

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV, nonetheless, tosses a tiny but extremely conductive digital spanner into that symbiotic groove. Based mostly on the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, the AMG variant provides extra—and never simply when it comes to efficiency. It’s higher in virtually each regard, leaving the standard-issue MB EQE EVs feeling a bit wanting, to not point out making the in any other case pretty Mercedes-AMG GLE-class, its internal-combustion analog, really feel a bit like growing older ordnance in a world of laser-guided missiles.

The plug-and-play componentry and infinitely tweakable software program native to electrical automobiles present new and various avenues for the intrepid AMG engineers to take advantage of. Within the case of the AMG EQE, you get entry to large torque at any pace, an electronically restricted 149-mph prime finish, and a refined mix of dealing with and luxury, all with few of the concessions required by ICE automobile improvement to realize the identical parameters. Not that we're saying it is easy. AMG constructed its rogue-in-a-tailored-suit id on a trademark husky exhaust notice and a sure menacing presence, and people components do not readily translate to this electrical SUV.

AMG EQE SUV provides extra energy

Naturally, the AMG EQE SUV begins with an influence infusion. A pair of AMG-specific electrical motors, one at every axle, carry an output of 617 horsepower and 701 pound-feet of torque. That is a rise of 215 horsepower and 68 pound-feet over the dual-motor setup that powers the Mercedes-Benz EQE500 SUV. Battery capability is unchanged from the 90.6-kWh lithium-ion unit in the usual Benz. (The bottom EQE can also be accessible because the single-motor 350+ and dual-motor EQE350 4Matic.) The AMG EQE can cost at charges as much as 170 kilowatts on a DC fast-charger, sufficient so as to add 100 miles in quarter-hour, in accordance with Mercedes. A/C house and public charging by way of the built-in charger is restricted to 9.6 kilowatts.

True to AMG kind, there's a user-selected launch mode. Dubbed Race Begin, it may be deployed whether or not you purchase the elective AMG Dynamic Plus bundle or not, however if you happen to do make the additional spend you will get an added enhance operate. The previous performs the acquainted launch with all programs primed for a clear, neck-snapping getaway; attempt the identical antics with the Dynamic Plus enhance mode engaged, and it quickly ups the output to the utmost 677 ponies and 738 pound-feet of torque. The automotive steps off with the identical authority however provides simply sufficient additional push to increase the checklist of physiological-based acceleration clichés to incorporate your alternative of inside organs.

AMG claims a 60-mph romp of three.4 seconds on this setting, and based mostly on C/D expertise, we expect our testing will reveal it is roughly two- to three-tenths faster. That places it in league with a fellow EV SUV extrovert, the BMW iX M60, whereas leaving the Audi SQ8 e-tron within the figurative mud—on paper, not less than. It could possibly additionally cling with its EQE53 sedan sibling and the Audi RS E-Tron GT.

Warmth is the buzzkill right here, so the fortified EQE SUV employs some AMG-specific cooling sorcery to resist the warmth generated by repeated stand-on-it launches. The rear motor encompasses a “water lance,” which, regardless of sounding just like the identify of a competition-grade kayak paddle, is a hole shaft within the motor's rotor the place coolant circulates. Different AMG-specific components designed to dispatch warmth embody particular ribs on the stator and a “needle-shaped pin-fin construction” on the inverter, which is constructed of specialised efficiency ceramics. A transmission-oil warmth exchanger manages thermal exercise to chill underneath duress and preheat elements throughout chilly begins for improved effectivity.

AMG EQE SUV vary

The automaker remains to be finalizing the vary numbers for the AMG EQE SUV. Nevertheless, the automobile we drove confirmed an indicated 225 miles with a 90 p.c battery cost initially of our drive; after protecting 72 miles in combined circumstances starting from stop-and-go visitors on the Pacific Coast Freeway to a stint on the interstate, an indicated 152 miles of vary remained with the battery displaying 60 p.c. Serviette math suggests a complete of 240 miles with a full cost, although it might depart the battery almost depleted.

Certainly, the onboard software program predicted a remaining vary of 100-153 miles, based mostly partially on the driving model of the primary 72 miles. (We spent almost all our time behind the wheel of the EQE in Sport+ mode and subjected the automobile to quite a few full-tilt launches, in addition to frequent foot-to-the-floor merges and passing strikes on the freeway.)

Beginning with a totally charged battery and driving with a mild foot, the vary doubtless would enhance commensurately. For reference, C/D estimates the Mercedes-Benz EQE500 SUV, which carries the same-size battery however much less highly effective motors, at round 269 miles of vary.

The navigation system consists of Lively Vary Monitoring software program that, if it determines a programmed vacation spot would carry you shut to completely depleting the battery, will step in and supply probably the most environment friendly operation and prioritize close by charging stations.

Driving the AMG EQE SUV

Choose the Consolation drive mode, and the AMG EQE strikes with a relaxed athletic stride, partially by limiting drivetrain output to 493 horsepower. The usual air suspension adjusts to suit the temper, the electromechanical anti-roll bars loosen their grip on the chassis, and, regardless of the fitment of mildly aggressive 275/40R-21 Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, the chassis delivers a surprisingly buffered experience appropriate for coddled derrières.

In sooner conditions, the AMG-tuned 4Matic+ all-wheel drive sends extra torque to the rear in Sport and Sport+ modes for heightened agility. As much as 9.0 levels of rear-wheel steering is on faucet to help in dealing with and maneuverability. The rear wheels flip reverse of the fronts under 37 mph for better maneuverability; above that threshold, they flip in live performance with the fronts, which aids high-speed maneuverability. The impact is a little bit disconcerting at first, however when you be taught to belief the feeling, the rock partitions lining the canyon roadway disappear out of your peripheral imaginative and prescient.

Six-piston calipers pinch 16.3-inch rotors in entrance with single-piston models within the rear biting 14.9-inch rotors. (A ceramic high-performance composite brake setup with 17.3-inch rotors can also be accessible.) Sure, there's nonetheless a little bit of a fiddly, unsure feeling on the pedal because the mechanical and regenerative programs alternate stopping responsibility, a difficulty we discovered with the usual EQE SUV as nicely.

Fortunately, with three ranges of regenerative braking accessible, one can reduce the quantity of brake-pedal interplay. Sturdy recuperation mode is probably the most aggressive and returns probably the most vitality however requires a slight rewiring of your instincts to make use of it gracefully. Even at excessive speeds sweeping via winding mountain roads, the trick is to by no means totally take away your foot from the accelerator. Doing so engages the total regenerative braking drive, which is deceptively efficient at slowing the automobile. And the software program choice to throw out the anchor is made in roughly the primary 1 to 4 p.c of pedal journey. Maintaining a light-weight contact on the accelerator always lets you modulate the braking drive with moderately natural outcomes.

Styling and inside

Cosmetically, AMG has taken a decisively conservative tack. A brand new hood badge with the AMG emblem replaces the normal Mercedes star. An AMG-specific body-color entrance fascia is punctuated with a black panel with chrome adornments, and the entrance aero components additionally get highlighted in chrome.

AMG inside signifiers embody upholstery with particular patterns rendered in MB-Tex with microfiber and purple topstitching, though nappa leather-based is on the market as normal too. There are embossed AMG logos on the seats and headrests, the requisite illuminated door sills, and an AMG flat-bottom steering wheel. The helm is a delight to grip, however the wheel-mounted controls really feel a bit flimsier and much much less tactile than these of earlier variations. The usual Hyperscreen dominates the sprint and right here is full of AMG-specific content material, together with the accessible AMG Monitor Tempo software program for all those that'll be taking their electrical SUV to trace days.

Although the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV is worthy of the AMG tag, it redefines the product formulation. Sure, it has heightened efficiency, however software program performs an more and more necessary position. Within the EV age, tuner arms like AMG have to work time beyond regulation to domesticate the magic that separates them from their much less rarefied siblings. For now, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV is solely probably the most participating instance of the EQE household.

On-line Editor

Andrew Wendler brings many years of wrenching, writing, and editorial expertise with quite a few shops to Automobile and Driver. A rust-belt native and tireless promoter of the area, he as soon as gained a $5 wager by strolling all the size of the elevated Individuals Mover monitor that encircles downtown Detroit.