MERCEDES-AMG EQS 53

First series electric car from Mercedes’ performance division is a 751bhp limousine

- GREG KABLE

TESTER ’S NOTE

You can differentiate an AMG from a Benz EQS at the front by the Panamericana grille, redesigned bumper, splitter, fins on the air intakes and reshaped air curtains; and at the back by the larger spoiler and redesigned valance under the bumper. GK

We’re used to huge numbers from Mercedes-AMG, but even so, those credited to the EQS 53, its first series production electric car, are surely enough to capture the attention of even the most ardent ICE holdouts.

At 751bhp and 752lb ft (with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package fitted), the big saloon’s drivetrain delivers 110bhp and 88lb ft more than the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 found in the GT 63 S 4-Door Coupé.

It’s essentially the set-up from the magnificently refined EQS 580 with a number of performance-focused modifications. With a single-speed gearbox and fully variable 4Matic to deploy it, the result is 0-62mph in 3.4sec – which, considering the generous dimensions and 2575kg kerb weight, is quite an achievement.

This potency is relayed by several design elements that set the AMG apart from the standard EQS. It’s a successful reworking, but at the same time it’s not significantly differentiated from the AMG Line package available on the standard car. It has affected the aerodynamics as well, increasing drag by 0.3Cd.

The interior also gets a sportier treatment than the standard EQS, the 1.4m-wide Hyperscreen as standard and sports seats featuring synthetic leather and red stitching. It’s all fittingly upmarket both in appearance and feel, giving the new AMG saloon a truly luxurious air matched by few, if any, competitors.