If you’re here, it probably means you’ve got your eyes on the Mercedes EQE 350 or...
If you’re here, it probably means you’ve got your eyes on the Mercedes EQE 350 or EQE 500.
So, which one’s best for you?
The main difference between the Mercedes EQE 350 SUV and the EQE 500 SUV is that the EQE 350 SUV has 288 horsepower and costs $77,900, while the EQE 500 SUV has 402 horsepower and costs $89,500.
Does the EQE 500’s extra power justify its price? Or is the EQE 350 better for you?
That’s what we’ll try to figure out!
5 Differences between the Mercedes EQE 350 and the EQE 500 SUV
Looking at the used inventory on Edmunds, around 53% of Mercedes EQE SUV listings are for the EQE 350, while 19% are for the EQE 500.
That means the EQE 350 is more popular than the EQE 500, but why?
First, here is a quick overview table of all the differences between the EQE 350 and the EQE 500 SUV:
| 1. Performance | 288 hp / 564 lb-ft | 402 hp / 633 lb-ft | |
| 2. Electric range | 253 miles | 269 miles | |
| 3. Standard features | Standard 19-inch wheels | Standard 10-degree rear axle steering and 20-inch wheels | |
| 4. Curb weight | 5,635 lbs | 5,565 lbs | |
| 5. Price | $77,900 | $89,500 |
Note: These numbers are specific for the EQE SUV variants. The differences between the EQE 350 and the EQE 500 Sedan will be in the same areas, just with slightly different numbers.
Now, let’s dive into the details!
1. Performance
The main difference between these two models lies in their performance.
Here is an overview of the performance of the EQE 350 and the EQE 500 SUV:
| Mercedes | Power (hp) | Torque (lb-ft) | 0 to 60 mph |
| EQE 350 | 288 | 564 | 6.2 seconds |
| EQE 500 | 402 | 633 | 4.6 seconds |
The EQE 350 has 288 hp. Sounds quite impressive, right?
But the EQE 500 offers a whopping 402 hp. And you can definitely sense that extra push!
The EQE 350 SUV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, but the EQE 500 SUV is noticeably faster at 4.6 seconds.
One more interesting thing to note about the performance of the EQE 350 is that you can upgrade it through Mercedes’ on-demand acceleration upgrade.
It’s an over-the-air update that can boost the output on your EQE 350 from 288 hp to 348 hp (+60 hp). The acceleration time changes from 6.2 s to 5.2 s (-1.0 s).
Mercedes on-demand acceleration upgrade for the EQE 350 costs either $60 per month, $600 per year, or $1,950 as a one-time payment.
2. Electric range
Next, let’s dive into something that’s super crucial for electric vehicles: the range.
Now, if you’re like me, you’ve probably had those “Oh snap, where’s the nearest charger?” moments.
With the ever-evolving tech in the EV world, range anxiety is becoming less of a thing, but it’s still a number we need to look at closely.
The EQE 350 has a range of 253 miles. That’s like driving from Los Angeles to San Diego and back without needing to recharge. Not bad, right?
But the EQE 500 does even better, with a range of 269 miles.
It might seem like a small difference, but when you’re on a long road trip, those extra miles can mean reaching your destination without the dreaded range anxiety.
And a little side note (because I know some of you are curious) – both models have the same battery size (89.0 kWh) and charging times (10% to 80% in 32 minutes).
So the slight range difference boils down to other factors, like weight, on-board systems, and performance capabilities.
Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention this: While these numbers sound great, real-life driving conditions like speed, terrain, and use of other car systems (yes, I’m looking at you, air conditioner) can affect the range.
3. Standard equipment
There’s also a subtle difference in the standard equipment you get with both models.
Starting off, there’s a standard feature in the EQE 500 that truly makes it stand out: the 10-degree rear-axle steering.
If you’re scratching your head, wondering why that’s a big deal, let me paint a picture for you.
Imagine navigating tight city corners, parking in compact spaces, or even making U-turns.
That rear-axle steering means the car’s rear wheels turn ever so slightly, making its turning circle 34.5 ft instead of the EQE 350’s 40.4 ft.
Having experienced this firsthand, I can tell you it’s a game-changer, especially in city driving.
Now, the EQE 350, being the more “modest” sibling, comes with 19-inch wheels as standard. They look great and do their job efficiently.
But, for those who like a stronger road presence, the EQE 500 comes with larger 20-inch wheels.
4. Curb weight
Alright, let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight but plays a crucial role in how a car feels on the road: curb weight.
Simply put, it’s the weight of the car without passengers or cargo but with all the necessary fluids – think of it as the car’s “empty” weight.
A lighter car often feels more agile and can be more efficient, while a heavier one might offer a more planted, luxurious feel on the highway.
Surprisingly, the EQE 350 comes in a bit heavier at 5,635 lbs. On the flip side, the EQE 500, even with its additional features and performance chops, weighs slightly less at 5,565 lbs.
That’s a 70 lbs difference!
However, does this weight difference transform the driving experience?
In day-to-day drives, it might not be dramatically noticeable. But for the keen drivers among us, every pound can tweak the driving feel, especially when cornering or accelerating from a standstill.
So, the big question: Does this weight difference matter for your buying decision?
For the majority, it might not be the deciding factor.
But if you’re someone who appreciates the nuances of driving and loves to feel every aspect of the car’s performance, it’s a detail worth considering.
5. Price
Ah, the elephant in the room, the price!
The EQE 350 SUV has an MSRP of $77,900, while the EQE 500 SUV has an MSRP of $89,500.
Is the EQE 500 worth the additional bucks?
Well, that depends on you.
If you’re someone who craves the best of the best, values the added power, and enjoys those premium features, then the price difference might seem justified.
But if you’re looking for a luxurious, efficient, and powerful EV without needing all the extra bells and whistles, the EQE 350 SUV offers fantastic value.
What is the best choice?
It’s time for the golden question: Which is best for you?
Here’s my two cents:
If your primary goal is to have a luxury electric SUV that takes you from Point A to Point B with flair and efficiency, the EQE 350 is the best choice. With its impressive range, reasonable power, and a price tag that’s slightly more budget-friendly, it covers all the basics of luxury EV driving and then some.
However, if the thrill of top-notch performance makes your heart race, then the EQE 500 SUV is the best choice, thanks to its more powerful motor.
If you can’t choose, the EQE 350’s potential on-demand acceleration upgrade offers an interesting counterbalance, allowing for performance boosts without jumping to the higher model.
In the end, both choices are solid!
Conclusion
From performance to price, we saw all the differences between the Mercedes EQE 350 and the EQE 500.
If you’re considering these models, we highly encourage you to take them for a test drive.
After all, nothing can truly replicate the feeling of being behind the wheel, experiencing the drive for yourself.
From personal experience, I can say Mercedes rarely disappoints. You get that nice feeling of being wrapped in luxury, no matter which you pick.
Good luck!
