The 2022 Mercedes EQS450+ represents a defining moment for Mercedes-Benz’s EQ lineup, aiming to fuse ultra-luxury with premium electric performance. It enters a growing segment of high-end EVs with a promise of Mercedes’ signature refinement, comfort, and craftsmanship, all wrapped in an electric powertrain that confidently competes with established luxury rivals. From its opulent cabin to its advanced technology suite and smooth, serene ride, the EQS targets buyers who value a first-class experience as much as immediate acceleration. Yet its lofty starting price and the evolving charging ecosystem raise practical questions about ownership for prospective buyers. In this review, I’ll dive deep into what makes the EQS450+ stand out, where it falls short, and how it stacks up against peers like the Tesla Model S, the Porsche Taycan, and the Lucid Air.
Exterior design and aesthetic appeal
The exterior design of the EQS embodies a bold, arguably polarizing aesthetic, showing Mercedes’ willingness to diverge from traditional sedan silhouettes in pursuit of a futuristic flagship. The overall shape has been described as “blob-like” by observers, a deliberate styling choice from Mercedes that, in the company’s view, improves aerodynamic efficiency and efficiency-driven performance. The car features a pronounced, bulbous nose and a long, streamlined body with a clean, smooth shoulder line that winds toward the rear. For some, the look signals a fresh, progressive direction for a luxury brand that has spent decades cultivating timeless elegance. For others, it may take a little longer to grow on them. Regardless of personal taste, the engineering intent is clear: reduce drag to maximize electric range and efficiency while maintaining Mercedes’ luxury DNA.
There are multiple design cues that Mercedes fans and potential buyers will appreciate. The EQS ships with impressive 20-inch wheels as standard, with the option to upgrade to 22-inch wheels that carry a similar, high-end aesthetic. These wheels, paired with contrasting black accents, help emphasize the vehicle’s luxury pedigree. The door hardware is another standout feature: retractable door handles that automatically present themselves as you approach the car and retract when you lock the doors. The mechanism is part of a broader package of convenience features that make for a refined entry experience and a sense of effortless luxury once you’re inside.
Beyond the exterior shell, the lighting treatment also plays a critical role in the EQS’ visual language. Full LED lighting completes the front and rear statements, with Mercedes’ characteristic attention to signature cues and a modern, high-tech vibe. The design approach intentionally communicates sophistication and restraint, rather than flashiness, underscoring the EQS’ positioning as a luxury mobility solution for discerning buyers.
From a practical standpoint, the design does earn praise for aero efficiency. Mercedes claims that the shape has been tuned to minimize drag, contributing to the car’s outstanding efficiency credentials. While the exterior may polarize, it’s undeniable that the EQS presents a cohesive, premium aesthetic that communicates luxury, innovation, and a forward-looking mindset. For buyers who prioritize an exterior that signals “high-end electric,” the EQS delivers with a bold statement backed by Mercedes’ long-standing reputation for quality and craftsmanship.
In summary, the EQS exterior may not be universally loved, but it is undeniably purposeful. The blend of dramatic lines, aerodynamic features, and luxury accents work together to convey a vehicle that is equal parts showcase and daily driver. The result is a sedan that stands out in a crowded field of high-end EVs, especially among buyers who place a premium on presence, refinement, and a distinctive brand voice.
Interior luxury, materials, and cabin design
Step inside the EQS, and you’re greeted by a cabin that is arguably Mercedes’ most ambitious interior to date. The overarching goal is to deliver a sanctuary-like environment, where every detail communicates luxury, comfort, and meticulous engineering. The materials are plush, and the stitching patterns, textures, and colorways are designed to feel both premium and inviting. The soft-touch surfaces wrap around the cockpit and doors, while the seats are heavily contoured to provide substantial support on longer drives. The overall ambiance is one of quiet, controlled opulence rather than a showroom flashiness, aligning with Mercedes’ longstanding luxury philosophy.
One of the focal points of the interior is the ergonomic layout and the tactile nature of controls. The interior is designed to minimize clutter while maximizing convenience, with a strong emphasis on intuitive reachability and ease of use. This extends to the ambient lighting, which can be customized to suit mood and driving scenarios, adding a nuanced layer of personalization to the cabin experience. The seating, in particular, is notable for its comfort and support. The seats feature premium materials, with the Pinnacle trim amplifying this effect through enhanced cushioning, heating, cooling, and even a massage function. These features are not just marketing fluff; they translate into real comfort on long trips and contribute to the car’s luxury quotient.
A standout feature of the EQS is the adoption of a large, panoramic digital ecosystem that Mercedes calls the Hyperscreen. This is not a single giant display but a suite of three integrated displays that span the dashboard. The instrument cluster, the central infotainment hub, and a separate screen for the front passenger work in tandem to deliver a cohesive, high-tech experience. The Hyperscreen is as much a design statement as a functional one, transforming the way drivers and passengers interact with vehicle information, media, navigation, and vehicle settings. The screen surfaces are responsive and visually immersive, creating a sense of immersion that is rare in mainstream luxury sedans.
In terms of personalization, the EQS supports a robust set of presets and user profiles, including the ability to store driver preferences and even activate them via a fingerprint. This level of customization is a nod to the modern expectation that a car should remember a driver’s preferences and adjust accordingly, from climate settings to seating positions and display configurations. The interior also features an abundance of storage options and clever organization solutions to accommodate daily use and longer trips alike. The combination of soft-touch materials, premium stitching, and a thoughtfully laid-out cabin makes the EQS feel like a true luxury experience rather than a premium car with an optional add-on.
Practicality is further enhanced by generous cargo space and thoughtful under-trunk storage that helps keep equipment and everyday items within easy reach. The overall interior package is designed to be both visually striking and supremely functional, delivering a premium experience that remains comfortable and intuitive in daily use. In short, the EQS interior is less about making a splash and more about delivering a harmonious, well-crafted environment that aligns with Mercedes’ luxury heritage while embracing modern electric-car realities.
Infotainment, MBUX, and the Hyperscreen experience
Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system, especially when paired with the Hyperscreen, represents a bold rethinking of in-cabin digital interfaces. The system is designed to be highly functional, with a balance of intuitive controls and powerful features that accommodate both traditional car functions and modern connected services. The Hyperscreen houses three displays: the instrument cluster, a central dashboard display dedicated to infotainment and vehicle settings, and a passenger-facing screen that enables various activities such as video viewing and interactive apps. While the passenger screen opens up entertaining possibilities, it’s designed to be used responsibly and within safety constraints, and it can be paired with a driver-verified profile to ensure appropriate access to certain content.
In practice, the infotainment system emphasizes ease of use and accessible features. The interface supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing owners to continue using their preferred mobile apps without the added friction of wires. The built-in navigation and mapping system is robust, offering reliable routing and traffic information, and it benefits from the Hyperscreen’s expansive real estate, which reduces the need to toggle between multiple windows and menus. The system’s responsiveness is generally solid, though there can be occasional minor delays when the car is first powered on, or when returning from a deep menu dive. Once warmed up, the displays respond quickly enough for most use cases, and the overall experience feels premium rather than laggy or frustrating.
One of the more technologically striking features is the augmented reality (AR) heads-up display (HUD). This system projects navigation cues directly into the driver’s field of view, including AR arrows overlaid onto the actual road, to guide the driver toward the correct route. It’s a cool and futuristic feature that underscores Mercedes’ willingness to push boundaries in the name of safer, more intuitive navigation. The HUD is supplemented by a traditional heads-up display that shows speed, speed limits, and other critical information, ensuring the driver never has to take their eyes off the road for essential data.
That said, the Hyperscreen isn’t without its quirks. Fingerprints and smudges can accumulate on the display, which can detract from the otherwise pristine appearance. The system’s learning curve and software interface may require a brief acclimation period, during which time some users may notice minor lag or slower responses when transitioning between tasks. Nevertheless, the overall perception is that the Hyperscreen represents a forward-looking, premium approach to in-car tech that aligns with Mercedes’ luxury branding while offering a level of integration and capability that is hard to match in many rival cabins.
In summary, the EQS’s infotainment strategy—anchored by the Hyperscreen and supported by Android Auto/CarPlay wireless integration and AR navigation—delivers a compelling, high-tech experience. It blends luxury storytelling with practical connectivity, creating an in-cabin environment that feels advanced yet accessible. For buyers who crave a cutting-edge interface that remains usable and refined, the EQS provides a strong case for itself as a leader in luxury EV infotainment.
Comfort, seating, and ergonomics
Comfort is a central pillar of the EQS experience. The interior design emphasizes a calm, refined ambiance that’s consistent with Mercedes’ longstanding emphasis on passenger comfort. The seats are designed to cradle occupants with ample support, and the available leather and premium textile options ensure a tactile sense of luxury. In the Pinnacle trim, the combination of heating, cooling, and a massage function creates a spa-like experience on long drives. This level of comfort extends to all seating positions, though the front seats benefit most from the full spectrum of available adjustments and power-operated controls.
Ergonomics inside the EQS are thoughtfully considered. The layout aims to minimize distraction while maximizing accessibility to essential controls. The Hyperscreen’s central role in the cockpit means many frequently used controls are close at hand, reducing the need to divert attention away from the road. The ambient lighting, materials, and overall fit-and-finish contribute to a sense of luxury that makes the interior feel like a high-end lounge rather than a traditional car cabin. The quality and refinement extend to practical details, such as thoughtful storage compartments and compartments that are easy to access and use.
In terms of climate control and cabin experience, the EQS delivers a quiet, well-insulated cabin that helps shield occupants from road and wind noise. The air suspension contributes to a serene ride by smoothing out imperfections and delivering a composed feel across a wide range of speeds and road surfaces. The ride quality is particularly notable for balancing comfort with a sense of composure, especially in the baseline EQS450+ configuration. In daily commuting and long-distance trips alike, the combination of plush seating, careful sound dampening, and atmospheric ambient lighting contributes to a sense of well-being that is rare in luxury sedans.
The interior design and features also adapt to the needs of modern families and professionals. The rear seating offers generous legroom and headroom, contributing to an overall impression of space and comfort. While the car is built around a large footprint that may seem imposing in tight urban environments, the rear-seat comfort remains a strong selling point for buyers who regularly carry passengers in the back. One practical note is the abundance of USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin, with six located up front and two for rear-seat passengers. This helps ensure that devices stay charged during extended trips, which is increasingly important in a connected, on-the-go lifestyle.
In sum, the EQS interior excels in delivering a culmination of luxury materials, thoughtful ergonomics, and occupant-focused technology. The combination of premium seating, refined climate control, and a cockpit designed around user experience reinforces Mercedes’ commitment to delivering an upscale, comfortable experience. For buyers who prize interior quality and a refined in-cabin atmosphere, the EQS provides a compelling and well-executed package.
Safety, driver assistance, and driver aids
The EQS benefits from a comprehensive suite of safety features and driver-assistance technologies, designed to support safe driving while preserving the pleasure of handling a high-end EV. The car includes dynamic cruise control with adjustable following distance, a lane-keeping system that helps center the vehicle within its lane, and a range of camera- and sensor-based monitoring systems to assist with awareness and control on the road. On highways, these features combine to create a behavior that can feel nearly autonomous at times, particularly in steady, straight-line driving scenarios.
Parking and low-speed maneuvers are aided by a 360-degree camera system that offers an excellent peripheral view, helping drivers navigate tight spaces and avoid obstacles that could be difficult to detect with mirrors alone. The camera system’s accuracy and clarity are notable, supporting safer parking and smoother transitions when backing out of confined spaces. This integration of camera data with the car’s other sensors provides a robust aid to drivers who want extra peace of mind in urban environments or crowded parking structures.
The EQS emphasizes passive safety features as well, with Mercedes’ longstanding emphasis on structural integrity, high-quality materials, and design choices that prioritize occupant safety in the event of a collision. The combination of active and passive safety systems works to deliver a secure driving experience that aligns with the luxury category’s expectations, providing reassurance that daily commutes and long journeys can be undertaken with confidence.
In practice, drivers may find themselves relying more on the car’s driving aids when it’s convenient and beneficial, rather than using them constantly. The luxury experience of the EQS is enhanced by a safety system that feels supportive and unobtrusive, stepping in on highways or during complex maneuvers when needed. While it would be reasonable to expect a degree of automated capability, the EQS remains a driver-focused vehicle whose safety technologies augment the driving experience rather than replace it entirely.
Overall, the EQS safety and driver-assist package reflects Mercedes’ approach to intelligent safety: comprehensive, reliable, and designed to complement a confident, relaxed driving style. The system’s balance between assistance and driver engagement supports a refined sense of control without overwhelming the operator, a key consideration for buyers who value both safety and the pleasure of driving.
Performance, powertrain, and chassis dynamics
The Mercedes EQS450+ is driven by a single electric motor capable of producing 329 horsepower, delivering impressive straight-line performance without sacrificing the serene, refined ride the car is known for. The acceleration figures are competitive: 0–60 mph in about 5.5 seconds in the rear-wheel-drive configuration. For those seeking even more dynamic performance, the all-wheel-drive EQS580 variant improves those numbers to around 4.1 seconds to 60 mph, offering noticeably stronger sprint capability while maintaining Mercedes’ characteristic refinement.
The EQS employs an adaptive air suspension that works to balance comfort and handling with a level of sophistication that is in line with its luxury positioning. The suspension is designed to smooth the road surface while maintaining composure during cornering, providing a well-damped, controlled ride across various speeds and conditions. The car also features a rear-axle steering system, which significantly aids maneuverability for a large sedan. The baseline model provides up to 4.5 degrees of rear-axle steering, with an optional upgrade that increases steering angle to 10 degrees. This arrangement helps reduce the perceived length of the vehicle, aiding in turn-in and overall agility, particularly in tight spaces or urban driving scenarios.
The driving experience is characterized by a balance between a sense of lightness and precise control. The EQS feels responsive and eager off the line, yet it does so with a level of calm and restraint that keeps it from feeling hurried or aggressive. The powertrain delivers immediate torque, smoothing out the transition into acceleration and delivering a confident surge when the driver demands it. The overall feel is one of a superbly tuned luxury car with an electric drivetrain that pairs performance with refined driving dynamics.
However, like many high-end electric sedans, there are nuances to the braking feel. Some drivers may find the brake pedal to feel a bit soft or spongy at times, especially when transitioning between regenerative braking and friction braking. This can create a sense of inconsistency for drivers who prefer a more linear braking response. In practice, the car’s braking system can be highly effective, but a strong regeneration mode would make braking even more seamless by reducing the need to apply the pedal for slow-downs. The braking dynamics are an area where the EQS offers a primarily premium experience but leaves room for further refinement to match the smoothness of some rivals in the same price bracket.
In terms of everyday usability, the EQS offers a comfortable, composed ride that remains quiet and refined at highway speeds. Its handling characteristics emphasize stability and composure, which suits the luxury sedan mission it pursues. While it’s not a sports car by any means, the EQS delivers a sense of confidence and control that is expected from a flagship luxury model, along with the added reinforcement of impressive electric performance. For buyers who prize a serene ride complemented by robust acceleration when needed, the EQS offers an exceptionally well-rounded package.
Range, charging, and charging-network considerations
The EQS450+ boasts an EPA-rated range that can approach 350 miles on a full charge in optimal conditions. This figure places it among the longer-range options in its segment, reinforcing Mercedes’ commitment to delivering practical daily usability alongside luxury. Real-world range, of course, depends on factors such as driving style, temperature, wheel size, and terrain, but the 350-mile benchmark provides a solid basis for planning long trips and daily commutes alike.
Charging performance is competitive, with DC fast charging capable of moving from 10 to 80 percent in roughly 35 minutes under ideal conditions. This charging window makes the EQS a practical option for longer journeys, allowing for relatively quick top-ups at suitable charging stations. However, there are realities to consider in the broader charging ecosystem. In the United States, the breadth and reliability of charging networks can influence the owning experience. The Tesla Supercharger network remains a reference point for charging convenience and breadth, and while the EQS supports access to various networks via charging standards and adapters where applicable, the availability and reliability of third-party networks vary by region and location. For buyers who rely on fast charging as a core part of their daily routine, it’s important to assess local charging infrastructure and determine whether home or workplace charging can sufficiently meet a typical week’s energy needs.
Within the home charging context, the EQS answers frequent charging requirements with a robust onboard system and compatibility with common home charging solutions. This ensures that owners can manage charging routines efficiently, especially when seeking to charge overnight or during working hours. For long-distance travel, the ability to identify and utilize nearby fast chargers with reasonable throughput becomes a practical factor in trip planning. In markets with well-established DC fast-charging networks, the EQS can keep up with long journeys and reduce downtime, enabling uninterrupted driving experiences that align with the luxury status of the vehicle.
As charging infrastructure continues to evolve, potential buyers should consider their own usage patterns, typical routes, and access to reliable DC fast-charge options. If a buyer has dependable access to a robust charging network in their everyday life, the EQS’ charging capabilities should be more than adequate for regular use, with the added benefit of its luxurious, comfortable environment during charging downtime (whether at home, work, or at a destination).
In summary, the EQS450+ is a practical luxury EV with impressive range capabilities and strong DC fast-charging performance. While it may not match a specialized charging network in every region, its overall charging efficiency and flexibility provide a compelling ownership proposition for those who prioritize comfort and refinement in their electric mobility. Buyers should, however, be mindful of their charging infrastructure and how it aligns with their typical driving patterns to ensure the most seamless ownership experience.
Practicality, cargo, and daily usability
Beyond its luxurious cabin, the EQS demonstrates solid practicality and thoughtful usability for daily driving and long trips. The trunk space is generous for a sedan of its class, and the overall packaging emphasizes utility in addition to luxury. For travelers or households that require room for luggage, gifts, or equipment, the EQS provides a storage solution that can comfortably accommodate multiple suitcases and associated travel items, even when traveling with a full load of passengers or cargo.
Under the trunk cover, the car provides practical storage for essential items such as charging cables and related accessories. This helps ensure that the car remains organized and ready for overnight or extended trips without resorting to external storage solutions. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity, adding versatility for those who need to haul larger items or cargo on occasion. The combination of a spacious interior and ample cargo capacity makes the EQS a viable option for those who prioritize both luxury and practicality in a single package.
Additionally, the interior is designed to host a variety of convenience features that add everyday value. The numerous USB-C ports ensure that devices can stay charged during trips, especially for families or individuals who rely on multiple devices for navigation, entertainment, or work. The fingerprint-based presets offer a personalized, efficient way to return to preferred settings, an enhancement that can be particularly beneficial for households with multiple drivers sharing the same vehicle.
The overall design philosophy emphasizes a balance between elegance and practicality. The Hyperscreen, while visually striking, is paired with sensible storage, a straightforward layout, and accessible controls that reduce the cognitive load of operating a high-end vehicle in daily life. For owners who require a sophisticated daily driver that still functions well as a practical family sedan or executive car, the EQS delivers on both luxury and utility.
In short, the EQS is designed for those who want a premium, comfortable, and highly usable electric sedan. It provides ample space, flexible cargo options, and a well-appointed interior that remains comfortable for long trips and daily errands alike. The practical considerations—storage, connectivity, and personalization—complement the interior’s luxury features to deliver a well-rounded ownership proposition.
Value, pricing, and market position
The Mercedes EQS450+ sits at a price point that positions it firmly in the luxury EV segment, appealing to buyers who want the prestige and refinement of a premium brand and are willing to pay for a flagship-level experience. Its starting price is well into the six-figure territory, reflecting the emphasis on top-tier materials, advanced technology, and extensive comfort features that define the package. At this level, the EQS competes not just on raw performance but on the total package of luxury, technology, comfort, and brand heritage.
In terms of competition, the EQS faces several strong rivals within the high-end electric sedan space. The Tesla Model S remains a formidable competitor, particularly for buyers who value the breadth and convenience of a large charging network and a more established, performance-oriented EV platform. The Porsche Taycan presents a different proposition: a sportier, more driver-focused experience with a smaller footprint but a distinct sense of European sport-luxury. The Lucid Air also represents a premium, high-performance alternative, offering a spacious interior and high efficiency with an emphasis on technology and range. Each of these rivals has its own strengths, and the EQS differentiates itself primarily through its emphasis on interior luxury, comfort, and a very refined ride, backed by Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for craftsmanship and customer service.
For buyers weighing the choice between ultimate luxury and a broader charging network, the EQS presents a compelling option. Its interior ambiance, advanced infotainment, and focus on comfort can make it the preferred choice for those who prioritize a plush, premium driving experience. On the other hand, buyers who place a premium on charging speed and network breadth may lean toward a brand with a more expansive charging ecosystem or a more aggressive charging strategy. The decision ultimately comes down to personal priorities: if luxury, refinement, and a tranquil cruising experience top the list, the EQS makes a strong case; if breadth of charging or sportier driving dynamics are more important, other options may be more appealing.
In summary, the EQS450+ is positioned as a luxurious flagship EV option that emphasizes comfort, interior excellence, and a serene driving experience. The price tag reflects its premium nature and the breadth of features it offers, while competition from other leading electric sedans ensures that buyers have several well-crafted options. For those who want the Mercedes luxury experience in an electric format, the EQS provides a highly compelling package, especially for long-distance travelers who value cabin serenity and refinement.
Should you buy the Mercedes EQS 2022?
Yes, for buyers who crave an extremely luxurious EV experience and can comfortably absorb the starting price, the EQS450+ represents a premium, well-rounded option. Its combination of an opulent interior, a distinctive technology suite, smooth ride quality, and credible electric performance creates a compelling package for a particular kind of buyer—one who values the ultimate in luxury and comfort and who can commit to owning a vehicle with high-end features and the accompanying ownership considerations. If high-end interior quality, a serene ride, and an expansive, customizable technology ecosystem are the priorities, the EQS is a strong candidate.
However, the decision hinges on charging needs and network expectations. If you strongly value access to a wide and fast charging network—particularly for long-distance journeys—the landscape in the United States may influence the practical ease of ownership. The EQS does not inherently have access to a network as expansive as some competitors, which could be a consideration for a buyer whose routine involves frequent long trips and inconsistent charging availability along the route. If the buyer can rely on home charging, work charging, or a reliable local fast-charging ecosystem, the EQS becomes a more straightforward and enjoyable proposition.
In any case, the EQS is a standout option within its category, delivering a level of luxury, technological sophistication, and refinement that few rivals can match. Buyers who want a flagship Mercedes experience in an electric package should consider the EQS seriously, especially those who prize cabin serenity, premium materials, and an advanced driving experience.
Conclusion
The 2022 Mercedes EQS450+ broadens the definition of what a luxury convertible-to-electric sedan can be, bringing Mercedes-Benz’s hallmark refinement, cabin quality, and technology into a flagship electric package. It excels in interior luxury, ride comfort, and high-end features like the Hyperscreen, delivering a premium, serene experience that stands out in a rapidly evolving EV market. The car’s main strengths lie in its plush, well-appointed interior, its sophisticated technology suite, and its impressive, smooth performance, which together create an environment that feels more like a premium lounge than a traditional car cabin.
That said, the EQS has its trade-offs. It carries a price premium that may be a barrier for some buyers, and its charging network implications, while workable with home charging, may deter those who require near-universal fast-charging access for frequent long trips. The vehicle’s approach to luxury and comfort may be less focused on the dynamic, sporty driving feel offered by some competitors, prioritizing refinement and quiet confidence over outright performance credentials. This makes the EQS an excellent choice for buyers who want a first-class luxury experience in an electric form and who are prepared to work within the limitations and realities of EV charging networks.
In the end, the EQS represents a strong and meaningful step forward for Mercedes-Benz’s electric strategy. It demonstrates the brand’s ability to translate traditional luxury values into a modern, high-tech electric platform. For those who prize comfort, interior craftsmanship, and a premium driving experience, the EQS is a compelling option that deserves serious consideration in the high-end EV space.
