For decades, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was recognized as the best car in the world. It’s carried kings, presidents, executives, celebrities, and even Miranda Priestly in Devil Wears Prada. But its throne is under attack. As did Lexus in the early 1990s, Tesla, Lucid, and even Cadillac are threatening its supremacy as we move into the EV age. It’s OK – the 2024 Mercedes EQS 450+ is ready to assert it claim as the best electric car in the world.
The EQS is all about new-school luxury with a nod to Mercedes past.
It’s the rare car that’s as enjoyable from the driver’s seat as being chauffeured in the rear. And, you’ll have long drives to enjoy it. Mercedes claims 352 miles range, but it’s been clocking closer to 415 miles in a combination of city and highway driving. Charging is pretty quick, too, getting to 80% in 31 minutes on a fast charger or fully topped on a home 240-volt charger in 11.5 hours – quick enough for a full replenish overnight.
I wasn’t particularly easy on it. Near-silent and turbine-smooth acceleration is quite intoxicating whether slaying a 0-60 mph run of 5.8 seconds, rushing off a freeway on-ramp, or zapping RVs on a slow two-lane. Combined output is rated 355 horsepower and 419 lb.-ft. of torque, but unlike with a gas engine, all of that power occurs instantly with a touch of your big toe.
It’s a big car shrunk by ample power and rear steering that enables this S-Class to maneuver like an A-Class. It turns so sharp that one has to be careful to not jackknife a curb. I spent much of my time with the EQS carrying my family from Indianapolis to Brown County State Park – a good mix of city, Interstate, and two-lanes.
Set in Comfort mode, the air suspension delivers that iron sponge waft for which older Mercedes were known – never out of control, but respectably relaxed. Perfect for the Interstate. Unlike in the old days, Sport mode tightens up the suspension, steering, and accelerator responses for a much more engaging driving experience in the twisties. Eco mode is aimed at maximizing driving range in the city.
Where old S-Class sedans were comfortable, yet serious with a minimum of distractions, this one flaunts Mercedes’ pillar to pillar Hyperscreen that provides flatscreen gauges, wide infotainment screen in the middle, and a third for the co-pilot. Devices connect wirelessly through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – and can be charged wirelessly, but passengers can conjure directions or summon music, then swipe them to the main screen. “Zero-layer menus” grant swift access to functions.
It’s also pretty cozy. Soft leather seats give deep hugs and soothe with heat, ventilation, and massagers up front. Rear passengers get heat and power recliners. Four-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, and Bermester 3D audio system cater to all. Natural gran brown-Walnut veneers confirm you’re in a Mercedes.
I find the sedan’s aero shape sleek and elegant with nothing extraneous – especially stretched over 21” AMG wheels with a subtle rear spoiler on the power rear hatch. It’s beautiful, but not distinctive enough with the big plastic panel across its facia. To imbue more S-Class gravitas, the EQS will soon receive a nose job with a new panel that simulates the traditional Mercedes grille as the star returns to the hood.
It’s place at the top may not yet be secure, but the EQS is certainly looking more confident. And, confidence comes at a price. The EQS starts at $104,400, but came to $115,160 for our 450+.
Storm Forward!
Send comments to Casey at [email protected]; follow him on YouTube @AutoCasey.