Drive Time – 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 4Matic Sedan

The two main questions to answer for potential auto consumers are electric or gas-powered vehicles and SUV versus sedan? Both have benefits, depending on lifestyles and what delights you behind you the wheel. Fortunately, there are enough choices to ponder before driving your decision off the lot. 

One worthy option is the new 2023 EQE 350 4MATIC sedan, the latest addition to the Mercedes-Benz family. This stunning car is a true masterpiece of engineering and design, packed with cutting-edge technology and luxurious features that will take your driving experience to the next level.

On the heels of the well-received top-of-the-line EQS, the EQE 350 4MATIC sedan offers plenty of S-Class panache for the typical E-Class’ customer wallet, starting at $77,000. Materials, luxury, technology and roominess check all the boxes for the plug-in generation. Meaning, the EQE sedan is a proper plug-in alternative for the popular E-Class gas consumer. 

SKIN

The EQE 350 4MATIC sedan is an excellent blend of style and substance, with a sleek and modern exterior that regularly turns heads. The aerodynamic lines and sculpted curves give this car a sense of motion even when it’s standing still, while the bold front grille, cool rear spoiler and 3D Helix LED headlights add an extra touch of elegance and sophistication. That stellar wind-cheating silhouette boasts a .20 wind coefficient – the best (along with the EQS) of any production car. 

Adding the $2,200 AMG Line Exterior package brings the attractive bonus of a High-Gloss Black front splitter, side skirts, chrome accents around the windows and AMG Rear Line bumper with Diffuser inserts. Illuminated flush door handles pop out upon arrival, and 20” 5-Y Spoke Black Diamond Alloy wheels on all-season rubber with Aero-Element covers in Matte Grey finish the motif. 

PERFORMANCE

But it’s not just about looks – the EQE sedan is also incredibly practical and efficient, thanks to its advanced electric drivetrain. The EQE 350 4MATIC has standard all-wheel drive, utilizing an extra electric motor for the front wheels. The main motor delivers a good 288 hp/564 lb/ft of torque and 0-60 in 5.9 seconds. It’s a smooth operator whisking you to a desired speed. Yet, this is designed more for those desiring an ultra-comfy luxury ride over spine-tingling driving chops. 

A Comfort Suspension with Selective Damping soaks up road imperfections while holding well in tight curves. The handy Rear-Wheel Steering (up to 10 degrees – industry norm is 3-5 degrees) shortens the turning radius for quick U-turns and parking maneuverability. Regenerative braking has three modes and takes some acclimating to find the sweet spot. 

The listed mileage range on a full battery is 260 miles with all-wheel drive. Replenishing juice is through the 9.6 kW AC (estimated 14 hours) or 170 kW DC Fast Charging Systems bump it from 10 to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes. 

CABIN

The luxuriously appointed EQE cocoon is a wonder of opulent comfort and technology. The new cabin-forward EV platform provides a longer wheelbase and roomier interior. High-quality materials emphasize sustainability. The 12-way power cushy heated and ventilated seats make long drives a pleasure rather than a chore. As a bonus, the Gorgeous Neva Grey/Biscaya Blue MB TX seats are upholstered in recycled materials, while the Natural Grain Brown wood trim comes from curated, responsibly sourced forests. 

The EV platform expands passenger room while providing a welcome and cozy environment. A huge power-tilt sliding double-panoramic roof illuminates the interior. The excellent tactile-feeling heated steering wheel fits your mitts to a tee. 

I’m a big fan of the gearshift on the right steering wheel stalk that frees up valuable room on the console. Lighted kick plates and illuminated extending door handles are a welcome touch. Visibility is decent for such a streamlined exterior, although the rear window is a bit narrow.

The dash is clean and uncluttered. A vibrant 12.8” OLED portrait display MBUX Multimedia System holds the majority of car-setting options and is easy to familiarize. I would still enjoy some designated knobs or buttons to access the most common settings. The jet turbine side vents are a nice touch. Head Up display is optional. 

An attractive array of 64 ambient light choices will mirror your every mood and features a dynamic element where the lights pulse (under certain selections) when you accelerate. It’s a nice conversation starter. Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The Burmester 3D Surround Sound System with 15 speakers and 710 watts delivers crisp audio and deep base to satisfy your inhabitants. 

Headroom is decent in the rear for a sleek exterior. Visibility is good; however, the rear window is somewhat narrow. Cargo space is listed at 15 cu.ft. but the front hood (frunk) is sealed. The power trunk lid is standard. 

TECH TOYS

As with any Mercedes-Benz, the abundant suite of safety and technology is reassuring. Active Parking with Surround View Camera is a joy navigating tight spaces. Active Lane Assist prevents meandering on the road. Auto-hold allows you to stay put without holding the brake pedal, and collision-prevent technology monitors your well-being. In total, the EQE possesses enough protection capability to guide you away from most dangerous challenges. 

The personal concierge “Hey Mercedes” voice recognition will grant your wish. 

The EQE also includes a four-year/50,000-mile warranty and 10-year/155,000-mile High Voltage Battery coverage. Ask about the two-year/20,000-mile complimentary factory scheduled maintenance.

So, if you’ve narrowed your purchase options to a plug-in sports sedan, you’d be wise to give the 2023 EQE 350 4MATIC a test spin, as it feels nearly as opulent as the EQS for thousands less. 

SCORECARD

Golf Bag Storage: Two

Curbside Appeal: Understated futuristic class 

0-60: 5.9 sec

MPG: 265-mile range with all-wheel drive

Must-Haves: There’s an option for any whim

Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles, 10-year/155,000 miles battery warranty

Base Price: $77,900

Price as Tested: $87,315

Who Buys It: Those desiring an extraordinary electric sedan option luxury sedan

Finish Line: The popular E-Class delivers a worthy plug-and-play choice

To schedule a test drive please contact Lance Carter at 972-599-0909 at Mercedes-Benz of Plano.