Mercedes EQE / EQB — The Quiet Executive

Mercedes-Benz has taken two distinct approaches to electric motoring with the EQE and EQB, and both make a compelling case for Irish buyers seeking premium electric transport. The EQE targets executive saloon buyers, while the EQB offers a practical seven-seat family solution.

Mercedes EQE — The Electric E-Class

The EQE is Mercedes' answer to the BMW i5 and Tesla Model S. It's a large, luxurious electric saloon that prioritises refinement above all else. The flowing, cab-forward design is unmistakably electric, with a smooth front end and a gently tapering roofline that creates one of the most aerodynamic production cars available.

Inside, the optional Hyperscreen — a single piece of curved glass spanning the entire dashboard — is genuinely spectacular. Three screens sit beneath it, including a passenger display for entertainment. Even without the Hyperscreen, the standard 12.8-inch OLED centre display running MBUX is among the best infotainment systems available.

The EQE 350+ with the 90.6 kWh battery delivers up to 639 km WLTP range. Real-world Irish driving yields around 480-520 km — enough for Dublin to Killarney and back without charging. The ride quality is exceptional, floating over Irish road surfaces with a serenity that few cars at any price can match.

Performance is effortless. The rear-motor EQE 350+ produces 292 PS and glides to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds. The AMG EQE 53 offers 687 PS for those wanting genuine performance — reaching 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds while maintaining the same limousine-like refinement.

Mercedes EQB — The Electric Family Seven-Seater

The EQB takes a more practical approach. Based on the GLB platform, it's a compact SUV that offers an optional third row of seats — making it one of the very few electric seven-seaters available. For larger Irish families, this alone makes it worth considering.

The 66.5 kWh battery provides up to 423 km WLTP range in the EQB 250+. Real-world range sits around 320-360 km, which covers most daily needs comfortably. The interior is well-finished with Mercedes' characteristic attention to detail, and the MBUX system with the 10.25-inch dual screens is intuitive and responsive.

The third-row seats are best suited to children, but they fold flat to create a versatile cargo area. With all seats folded, the EQB offers a substantial 1,620 litres of space.

On Irish roads, the EQB rides comfortably and handles predictably. It's not sporty, but it's composed and confidence-inspiring. The all-wheel-drive versions provide reassuring traction on wet roads.

Running Costs

Both models benefit from Mercedes' strong dealer support network across Ireland, with service centres in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick. Road tax is €120 for both. Mercedes offers competitive finance packages and a comprehensive warranty.

Verdict

The EQE suits executive buyers and long-distance commuters who value refinement and range. The EQB suits families who need seven seats and the flexibility that brings. Both showcase Mercedes' commitment to electric luxury and represent strong choices in their respective segments.

EQE Rating: 9/10 | EQB Rating: 8/10

EQE Price range in Ireland: €75,000 - €120,000
EQB Price range in Ireland: €52,000 - €65,000