2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV revealed: Australian launch set for first half of next year

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV has been revealed as the latest in a line of dedicated electric vehicles from the German manufacturer, with an Australian launch slated for early 2023.

Carrying on from the reveal of the EQS sedan last year, the Mercedes-Benz electric SUV rides on the same platform as its five-door liftback counterpart, although it gains an extra 20 centimetres in height for optimal ground clearance on light terrain.

Just like the sedan, three grades of the SUV will be available at launch – the rear-wheel-drive EQS 450+ (265kW/568Nm), all-wheel-drive EQS 450 4MATIC (265kW/800Nm) and the flagship EQS 580 4MATIC (400kW/858NM), all of which are powered by the same 107.8kWh lithium-ion battery.

14

While the EQS SUV can't match the sedan's 770km driving range on a charge, the entry-level 450+ still boasts a WLTP range of up to 660km, with the all-wheel-drive variants sacrificing economy to record a range of 613km each.

The car's on-board AC charger allows for charging at up to 22kW, with the DC fast charger stepping it up to 200kW, giving the EQS an extra 250km of range in just 15 minutes.

14

As with the sedan EQS, the SUV is equipped with rear-axle steering at up to 4.5 degrees as standard, with the full 10 degrees available as special equipment, reducing its turning circle from 11.9 to 11 metres.

Standard wheels on the EQS SUV measure up at 20 inches, although further options ranging up to 22 inches are available, with five-spoke light alloy and AMG multi-spoke light alloys available, both of which are aimed at increasing efficiency though better aerodynamics.

14

Inside the cabin, the front row occupants benefit from fully electric adjustable seats with ambient lighting, four-way lumbar support and seat heating, while climate control and multicontour massage seats are optional.

For those in the second row, the three-abreast seats features an electrically adjustable backrest angle and 130mm of fore and aft adjustment, as rear armrests, heating and an i-Size child seat attachment complete the options list.

Also available as an option is a third row of seats, expanding the EQS to be a seven-seater with two retractable seats, folding head restraints and easy-entry function on the second row.

14

Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster which is coupled with a 12.8-inch, portrait-oriented infotainment screen, although those wanting the 55.5-inch MBUX Hyperscreen can order the high-tech display as an option.

Mercedes hasn't confirmed what specs will be available for Australian buyers but it did lock in a local launch for the first half of 2023.

Local pricing and features will be announced closer to the model's arrival.