Electric cars are suddenly commonplace, especially in the luxury car market, but trust Mercedes-Benz to stay as distinct as it gets. So, with the new Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 SUV, luxury has met electrification in a way that few could have anticipated. It’s sleek, it’s powerful, and above all, it’s incredibly luxurious. And it’s even locally-assembled, which ensues negligible price disparity between the GLS and the electric sibling. But does it feel special enough to deserve the coveted three-pointed star badge? I got behind the wheel to find out.
Slick Masculinity
At first glance, the EQS 580 SUV looks every bit like the elegant sibling of the EQS sedan. But being an SUV, it has more of that imposing, rather daunting stance that we associate with the GLS. It’s massive, yet streamlined, thanks to Mercedes’ focus on aerodynamics. For the uninitiated, this e-SUV’s coefficient of drag of just 0.28 is comparable to some sedans. You don’t usually expect an SUV to be sleek, but the EQS 580 manages that without sacrificing its commanding presence.
The front is dominated by a huge black panel grille, characteristic of the EQ line. It’s flanked by sharp LED headlights. The fascia looks futuristic without being too radical, balancing the line between modern and classy. The side profile is clean, with subtle curves and flush door handles that enhance its aerodynamic efficiency. And let’s not forget the massive, aerodynamically-optimised 21-inch alloy wheels that look oh-so-delicious. At the rear, the taillights have a distinctive light bar running across the width of the vehicle, giving the SUV a wide, confident stance. Overall, the EQS 580 SUV isn’t loud, but it sure whispers its exclusivity with every bit of its aesthetics.
First-Class Meets Space Age
Step inside the EQS 580, and the first thing that hits you is the sheer size and luxury of the cabin. Mercedes has taken every inch of space and filled it with comfort, technology, and tonnes of high-end materials.
First Row: The front seats are where the magic really begins. The Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 SUV offers full electric adjustment, heating, cooling, and massaging functions. But that’s just the start. The real show-stealer here is the massive MBUX Hyperscreen that stretches across the dashboard. It combines three screens into one seamless piece of glass. The 17.7-inch infotainment system is incredibly intuitive, and the sheer size of the screen makes everything from navigation to media consumption feel like an event. And then, we have a 12.3-inch screen at the either end – one playing the role of an instrument cluster and the other bringing several controls to the fingertips of the front passenger. You get some more bells and whistles—wireless charging, a Burmeister 3D sound system, and ambient lighting that can be customized in 64 colors.
Second Row: Now, if you’re someone who enjoys being chauffeured, the second row doesn’t disappoint. No, not one bit. You get ample legroom and headroom, with seats that are almost as comfortable as those in the front. These seats are also electrically adjustable, and you get your own climate control zones. The EQS SUV’s flat floor (thanks to the absence of a transmission tunnel) means that even the middle seat isn’t too bad for short trips. Mercedes has ensured that rear passengers don’t miss out on tech either, with screens mounted on the back of the front seats for media and entertainment. The same screen even lets you easily adjust the front passenger chair to maximise your legroom!
Third Row: Yes, there’s even a third row, though it turns out to be the only chink in the armour. While one-touch tumble/retract feature of the middle row allows easy ingress and egress, there’s hardly any space for a grownup. The last row is best left for kids or pets.
Features Galore: From a massive panoramic sunroof to voice-activated controls that respond to “Hey Mercedes,” this car has it all. There’s also an air filtration system that claims to remove even the tiniest particles. This ensures you’re breathing fresh air, even during the infamous crop-burning days in the north of the country.
Smooth, Refined and Electrifying
Mercedes Benz EQS 580 SUV comes equipped with dual electric motors, one on each axle, giving it all-wheel drive capability. Combined, these motors produce a whopping 536 horsepower and 855 Nm of torque. That’s more than enough to make this large luxury SUV feel light on its feet. Step on the accelerator, and the EQS 580 leaps forward from all that instant torque. The official 0-100 km/h time is just 4.7 seconds, which, on looking at the sheer size and weight of the SUV, defies logic. But a dab of the gas pedal is all it takes to dismiss any doubts.
But what’s even more impressive is how serene the whole experience feels. It’s quick, sure, but it’s also smooth and whisper-quiet. The suspension, with adaptive air springs, soaks up all but the biggest bumps with ease, and the cabin remains eerily silent even at highway speeds. The EQS 580 SUV also comes with rear-wheel steering, which makes a massive difference in tight city spaces. Despite its size, it feels surprisingly agile. This e-SUV has an ARAI-claimed range of 808 km. In the WLTP cycle, it could clock an equally respectable 650 km. These test mileages should easily translate into a real-world range of around 600 km. While the real-world range may still vary, it’s safe to say that range anxiety won’t be much of an issue here.
Expensive but Great Value Proposition
At ₹1.41 crore (ex-showroom), the EQS 580 SUV is squarely aimed at those looking for the ultimate in luxury, technology, and eco-consciousness. Yes, it’s expensive, but when you factor in everything it offers—from the cutting-edge electric powertrain to the ultra-luxurious interior—it starts to feel worth every rupee of that asking price. Also, keep in mind that as an EV, you’re eligible for some state-based incentives, which might help soften the blow of that hefty price tag.
So, after spending time with the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 SUV, here’s my take: It’s a game-changer. Not just because it’s a powerful electric vehicle with stellar range, but because it redefines what a luxury SUV can be in the EV space. The blend of luxury, technology, and performance is hard to beat. Couple this with the sense or pride that comes from owning a three-pointed star, the EQS becomes a solid contender across the luxury SUV segment.
Also Read: New Mercedes-Benz EQA 250+ Test Drive Review – Video
