What is it?
We’re used to seeing big numbers from cars produced by Mercedes-AMG. Even so, those credited to the new Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4Matic+, the Mercedes-Benz performance-car division’s first true series-production EV, are the sort to grab the attention of even the most ardent of ICE holdouts.
At 751bhp and 752lb ft in combination with an optional AMG Dynamic Plus package, the big saloon’s electric drivetrain delivers 121bhp and 88lb ft more than the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine found in the GT 63 S 4-Door Coupé.
The dual-motor system is based heavily on that used by the magnificently refined EQS 580 but with a number of specific modifications aimed at ramping up performance even further.
With a single-speed gearbox and a fully variable four-wheel drive system to deploy it, the result is a claimed 0-62mph time of 3.4sec. Considering the EQS 53’s generous dimensions and 2575kg kerb weight, that's quite an achievement.
In doing so, AMG is serving notice that it doesn’t intend to let a wholesale shift towards electrification ruin its reputation for delivering some of the fastest-accelerating four-doors your money can buy.
The potency of the new model is relayed by a number of unique styling touches that help to set it apart from the standard EQS. Included is an AMG-specific Panamericana grille within a redesigned two-tone front bumper, which sports a prominent splitter element and fins on the air intakes, plus revised air curtains to smooth airflow into the front wheelhouses either side.
Mercedes' fully adaptable Digital Light headlights also feature as standard.
Further back, the EQS 53 sports wider sills, a larger rear spoiler and a revised multi-channel valance at the bottom of the rear bumper.
The standard 21in wheels come in either Aero or Heritage design. Buyers can also opt for larger 22in wheels in the same design.
This is a successful reworking, giving the EQS 53 its own distinctive visual signature. But at the same time, it's not significantly differentiated to the AMG Line design package available for the standard EQS. The changes have affected the aerodynamics, too, with the drag coefficient increasing from 0.20Cd to 0.23Cd, despite the retention of a blanked off grille and largely enclosed full-length undertray.
The interior also gets a more sporting treatment than the standard EQS with AMG sill-plates, a multi-function AMG steering wheel with a rotary driving-mode controller, AMG-specific graphics for the digital instruments, two touchscreens housed within the standard 1.4-metre-wide Hyperscreen dashboard, AMG sport pedals, AMG floor mats and broad AMG seats up front, wrapped in either standard synthetic leather or optional Nappa leather, both with contrasting red stitching.
Add your comment