Introduction : A Better EQS Emerges
2025 Mercedes-Benz EQS450 : When Mercedes-Benz first introduced the EQS, expectations were sky-high. As the electric counterpart to the legendary S-Class, it was supposed to redefine luxury EVs. However, the early EQS models failed to fully impress, especially when compared to rivals like the Tesla Model S and Lucid Air.
For 2025, Mercedes hasn’t reinvented the EQS—but subtle, well-targeted changes have made it significantly better.
Refreshed Design: More Mercedes, Less Jellybean
The 2025 EQS receives mild exterior updates typical of a mid-cycle refresh. Redesigned front and rear bumpers help soften the controversial “aerodynamic blob” look. While the ultra-low drag coefficient remains impressive, Mercedes finally allowed style to regain some ground.
Most notably, the return of the classic three-pointed star hood ornament adds a sense of identity that was missing before. It’s a small detail, but for a flagship Mercedes, it matters.
Bigger Battery, Real-World Range Wins
One of the most important upgrades lies beneath the floor. The battery pack now grows to 118 kWh, up from 108 kWh previously. On paper, that increase seems modest—but in the real world, it pays off.
During testing, the 2025 EQS450 4Matic achieved 400 miles of range at 75 mph, matching earlier rear-wheel-drive versions despite carrying all-wheel drive hardware and added weight. That kind of range should comfortably ease EV anxiety for most drivers.
Charging Performance: Long Trips Made Easier
The EQS supports DC fast charging up to 200 kW, while Level 2 AC charging tops out at 9.6 kW. Though fast-charging wasn’t fully verified during testing, previous EQS models have shown strong results—adding roughly 150 miles of range in under 20 minutes under ideal conditions.
For a luxury EV designed for long-distance cruising, charging capability remains a strong point.
Ride Comfort: Quiet, Soft, and Effortless
If comfort is your priority, the EQS still excels. The ride quality remains extremely smooth, bordering on floaty, and the cabin feels more like a luxury lounge than a car interior. Newly standard pillowed headrests further reinforce the EQS’s nap-friendly personality.
At highway speeds, the EQS is whisper-quiet, registering just 66 dBA at 70 mph, making it one of the quietest production cars tested.
Brake System Fixed: A Major Improvement
Earlier EQS models suffered from an oddly inconsistent brake pedal feel due to aggressive regenerative braking logic. That problem is now largely resolved.
The 2025 EQS delivers a predictable and natural brake pedal response, blending regenerative and friction braking smoothly. Panic stops feel confident, bringing the nearly three-ton sedan to a halt from 70 mph in 168 feet—a respectable figure for its size.
Improved Handling Without Losing Luxury
Mercedes has also retuned the adaptive suspension and steering. While the EQS still isn’t a sporty sedan, it feels more controlled and less disconnected than before.
Standard rear-wheel steering dramatically improves low-speed maneuverability, making parking lots and tight spaces surprisingly easy to navigate. High-speed stability also benefits from this system.
Performance: Quick Enough, Not Thrilling
With 355 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, the EQS450 4Matic delivers smooth and effortless acceleration. The sprint to 60 mph takes 4.7 seconds, which feels quick in daily driving but falls behind several competitors in this price range.
The instant torque masks the EQS’s weight well, though drivers looking for excitement may find rivals like the Lucid Air more engaging.
Interior Quality: Luxury Meets Screen Overload
Material quality inside the EQS is excellent. Soft leather, premium wood trims, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel all reinforce its flagship status.
However, the massive Hyperscreen, stretching nearly across the entire dashboard, can feel overwhelming. While visually impressive, it replaces traditional elegance with a constant wall of glass and digital information. Optional augmented-reality displays add even more visual stimulation—perhaps more than some drivers want.
Pricing and Value: Tough Competition
The tested 2025 EQS450 4Matic carried a sticker price of $115,360. While pricing has dipped slightly for 2026 models, competition remains fierce.
The Lucid Air Touring undercuts the EQS on price while offering more power, sharper driving dynamics, and stronger visual appeal. Tesla’s Model S also remains a formidable rival.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding real-world driving range
- Exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin
- Improved braking and ride balance
Cons:
- Rivals offer better performance and handling
- Heavy reliance on screens reduces interior elegance
- Styling still lacks emotional appeal for some buyers
Final Verdict: Incremental Changes That Matter
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQS450 4Matic doesn’t completely redefine Mercedes’ electric flagship—but it finally feels closer to what it should have been from the start. Better brakes, improved ride control, and extended range make it a far more convincing luxury EV.
