Fast SUVs are becoming more and more popular. People want the safety and, above all, the feel that these big vehicles offer, but still want something sporty and fast. so far, fast SUVs used elaborate suspension and big engines to deliver the performance they needed. However, the introduction of electrification has forced manufacturers to change their approach. Morally speaking, we’re not sure how eco-friendly an SUV that weighs roughly three tons and is full of batteries is, but nonetheless, we can safely say that they’re fast, as the all-new Mercedes EQE AMG proves. It’s AMG’s first-ever electric SUV, so it’s a big deal – let’s see what it has to offer.

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Slim exterior design

Action shot of the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV

The exterior of the AMG EQE SUV may seem a little contradictory. Fast Mercs used to have sharp edges, resulting in an aggressive design; however, newer models, and especially electric cars like the EQE, are much more rounded. However, to the untrained eye, the EQE AMG will look more like a luxury SUV than a fast one, in our opinion. As you might imagine, the AMG version should be different from the regular EQE. Key design differences include a front grille with vertical stripes, air ducts in the front bumper, plastic parts with a high-gloss finish instead of matte, body-color trim, AMG-exclusive 22-inch turbine wheels and a new heritage badge on the front of the hood.

Three-quarter front view of the gray Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV

As a nod to the Fossil Power AMG exhaust systems, the rear bumper of the EQE AMG features a three-line design, while the regular EQE only has two lines. It represents the larger exhaust that could be found on vehicles of the past and helps people distinguish the car in front of them even when the markings are missing. Ironically, the new AMG badging on the EQE features a valve and camshaft in a logo that is conspicuously absent from the company’s EV models. However, it is a quaint nod to the company’s past works.

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Chic interior

Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV dashboard with additional hyperscreen

The interior of the EQE AMG is very similar to the exterior. Certain design elements, such as the steering wheel, hint that this is a powerful car, but the overall design is more luxurious than sporty. The main differences between the fast and regular versions are the steering wheel, AMG sports seats and the infotainment screen software. The infotainment system, by the way, can be upgraded to a 56-inch hyperscreen, which is also seen on other Mercedes models. On these unique screens, you’ll find options like Supersport and Track Pace (only available for the Track Pace option). These windows offer information such as lateral acceleration, longitudinal acceleration, accelerator pedal position and speed. This is intended to provide track information; however, it’s also a cool quirk.

The front sports seats of the elegant Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV

Another cool feature is the sound that plays inside and outside the cabin and changes depending on whether you’re accelerating or decelerating. The sound can be changed with buttons on the steering wheel and it doesn’t sound like an internal combustion noise – it’s like a futuristic spaceship sound in a sci-fi movie. If you don’t like the sound, you can turn it off. Press the same buttons a little longer and you can save individual car settings depending on how sporty or comfortable you want the car to be. This is an interesting feature that makes life easier for EQE drivers. Is it just us, or are electric cars a lot like phones and laptops? On the main center screen you will also find the performance menu. Here you will get information about the vehicle such as power flow and more. Again, this option is not available in standard EQE.

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Up to 677 horses on the AMG EQE

Action shot of the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV

The EQE 53 AMG has 700 lb-ft of torque and 616 to 677 horsepower, depending on the options selected at the time of purchase. Performance figures include a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 137 mph. As you have probably noticed, Electric cars are developing 0-60 times, but fall behind when it comes to top speed. This is the case with EQE; however, this is not a problem as you can’t reach that speed on public roads anyway.

Air suspension on the AMG is standard, unlike the regular car, which is optional. It can change the stiffness and ride height of the vehicle depending on the mode you are in. This makes it sportier or more comfortable depending on what you need at any particular moment. Keep in mind that the air suspension on the AMG is not the same as on the regular EQE. The latter is more focused on comfort. Optional Active Stabilization technology, powered by a 48-volt system, keeps the EQE AMG’s body level during high-speed cornering. At normal speeds, the system shuts off and allows the EQE wheels to move freely through the suspension range – providing the perfect balance between a comfortable ride and smooth cornering. Standard rear-wheel steering further aids the AMG’s cornering while disguising the EQE’s weight. Rear roll angle is limited to nine degrees as opposed to the extra 10 degrees available on the regular car due to the wider tires.

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Final thoughts

Three-quarter rear view of the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV

Electric cars are not so interesting to gasoline lovers; however, we think there’s a lot to be excited about. The technology on offer makes them the perfect daily driver with comfort, quietness and future-proof features. Now the question remains, would you choose the EQE AMG over the current lineup of EV performance SUVs?

https://www.topspeed.com/the-mercedes-amg-eqe-suv-is-a-677-horsepower-maniac/