Mercedes Benz EQS 450 4MATIC Mercedes-Benz/EQS/EQS02 SUV 450 4MATIC AT

Highlights

• Most advanced ADAS standard
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating
• Lowest running cost in class

Summary

This specific all-electric SUV represents a unique opportunity to own one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road today without the typical new-car depreciation. As a 2023 model, it offers the latest in battery management and software integration, ensuring a seamless transition for those moving away from internal combustion. The grey exterior is highly favored in the UAE and wider GCC for its ability to maintain a clean appearance despite the dust of the region, which directly supports a stronger resale profile. While many luxury crossovers in this segment struggle with high fuel costs in city traffic, this model offers a silent, efficient, and vibration-free experience that is perfect for commuting between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This trim level is a particularly savvy choice as it balances high-end cabin materials with class-leading efficiency. For the GCC buyer, the lack of mechanical complexity means fewer components to wear down in the extreme summer heat compared to traditional petrol engines.

This Car vs Other 2023 EQS 450s

Given that the average annual mileage in the GCC typically ranges between 20,000 to 25,000 km, this 2023 model sits in a very favorable position within the used market. Most regional examples of this year are just beginning to enter their second major service cycle, making this a fresh entry that feels practically new. The European specification often includes high-end interior material packages that are sometimes omitted in other regions, providing a bespoke feel to the cabin. While the market sees many 2023 SUVs, the all-electric nature of this vehicle means it has likely faced less mechanical stress than a petrol-powered equivalent of the same age. The grey exterior is a neutral, professional choice that currently holds its value significantly better than more niche colors in the Saudi and UAE markets. Choosing a one-year-old model allows you to bypass the initial steep depreciation curve while still enjoying the remainder of the major manufacturer-level support systems.

4MATIC vs Lower Trims

Moving into the 4MATIC tier introduces a level of confidence and road-holding that rear-wheel-drive variants cannot match, particularly when navigating the high-speed curves of the E11 or E311 highways. This upgrade ensures that the 375 horsepower is delivered to the tarmac with maximum precision, eliminating wheel spin even in the rare event of a desert rainstorm. Inside, this trim typically adds a higher grade of acoustic insulation, making the cabin one of the quietest environments available in any SUV regardless of price. Buyers also benefit from an enhanced suite of interior technology that includes more sophisticated ambient lighting and upgraded sensor arrays for the driving assistance systems. In the GCC, where technology is a major driver of resale value, opting for the 4MATIC ensures your vehicle remains desirable to the next buyer who will be looking for the most capable version of the model. It effectively bridges the gap between the entry-level electric experience and the ultra-high-performance AMG variants.

EQS 450 vs Segment Rivals

When compared to the BMW iX or the Tesla Model X, this vehicle offers a more traditional sense of luxury combined with futuristic power. It leads the segment in terms of cabin quietness and ride suppleness, utilizing a suspension setup that glides over road imperfections better than the firmer Tesla. For the GCC driver who frequently travels across borders or long distances between emirates, the aerodynamic efficiency of this design translates to better highway range than many blockier SUV rivals. The MBUX interface is widely considered the most intuitive and visually impressive system on the market, outperforming the more Stark interiors of American competitors. Furthermore, the sheer prestige associated with the three-pointed star remains a powerful differentiator in the professional circles of Riyadh and Dubai. It provides a level of brand heritage and manufacturing consistency that newer startup brands in the EV space are still trying to replicate.

Running Costs & Resale

The primary advantage of this electric drivetrain is the significant reduction in monthly running costs compared to a petrol V8 SUV. With no oil changes, spark plugs, or complex transmission fluids to manage, the routine maintenance at authorized centers across the UAE is remarkably straightforward. While European spec vehicles usually require specialized local workshops or major providers like Bosch for official servicing in the GCC, the network in major cities is robust. Real-world consumption is highly efficient, particularly in the stop-start traffic of the Downtown Dubai area where regenerative braking recaptures energy that would otherwise be wasted. You can expect a depreciation rate of approximately 12 to 15% annually, which is standard for high-end European luxury EVs in the local market. Value retention is bolstered by the high demand for electric vehicles as the UAE continues to expand its green infrastructure and charging networks. Long-term, the battery is designed to handle the high ambient temperatures of the region through a sophisticated thermal management system that keeps the cells within an optimal range.

Performance & Capability

With 375 horsepower available nearly instantly, the acceleration is linear and effortless, allowing for confident overtaking on fast-moving highways. The 0-100 km/h sprint is achieved with a calmness that belies its speed, making it an ideal long-distance cruiser for family road trips. While this is a front-wheel-drive biased 4MATIC system, it provides excellent stability during high-speed maneuvers and maintainance of traction on sandy roadside shoulders. The ground clearance is perfectly suited for urban environments and the well-paved arterial roads connecting the major GCC cities. It offers multiple drive modes that allow the pilot to prioritize maximum range for long desert stretches or a more responsive steering feel for city navigation. The towing capacity is sufficient for light leisure equipment, though the vehicle is primarily designed as an executive and family transporter. The lack of a traditional engine allows for a low center of gravity, which significantly reduces body roll through corners compared to traditional high-riding SUVs.

Comfort & Cabin

The interior is a five-seat sanctuary designed to isolate passengers from the harsh 45°C summer heat of the GCC. The air conditioning system is exceptionally powerful, benefitting from the electric compressor that can pre-cool the cabin via a smartphone app before you even step outside. Large, supportive seats are upholstered in premium materials that resist heat absorption, ensuring comfort even when the vehicle has been parked in the sun. The floor is entirely flat due to the electric platform, providing rear passengers with class-leading legroom that makes three-adult seating in the back a genuine reality. High-quality cabin filters ensure that dust and sand from the desert environment do not penetrate the living space, maintaining a fresh atmosphere. Sound insulation is a standout feature, with dual-pane glass effectively blocking out the roar of wind and tires at 120 km/h. This is an environment built for the long commutes between Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.

Safety

Safety is paramount in this trim, which comes standard with a comprehensive array of sensors designed to protect occupants in busy multi-lane traffic. The 5-Star NCAP rating is a testament to its structural integrity and the effectiveness of its crumple zones. Features such as Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist are particularly useful on wide UAE roads where lane discipline can vary. The adaptive cruise control system manages distance perfectly, reducing driver fatigue during the long, straight highway drives common across the Arabian Peninsula. Emergency braking systems are calibrated to detect pedestrians and other vehicles with high precision, providing an extra layer of security in dense urban areas. The battery pack is also encased in a reinforced frame to prevent damage in the event of a collision, reflecting the meticulous engineering standards of the brand. This suite of active safety tech is often an expensive add-on for rivals, but here it provides standard peace of mind.

The bottom line

This 2023 European spec model is the ideal choice for a forward-thinking executive or family looking to embrace electric luxury with a proven, prestigious badge. It represents a significant saving over a new showroom purchase while offering nearly identical technology and a more environmentally conscious footprint for the GCC's changing roads.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.