Could The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Be The Real Tesla Killer? EV Rivals Model X

Mercedes-Benz is taking aim at Tesla with its first electrified SUV for the U.S market.

The new EQS SUV is the sister to the EQS sedan and sporty EQE sedan. It features up to 536 horsepower and 633 pound-foot of torque available in two configurations with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Driving modes include Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual, with the 4Matic version featuring an OffRoad mode. Rear-axle steering with a 10-degree steering angle is standard for city and off-highway mobility.

Mercedes-Benz said that 373 miles of range was possible on the SUV, depending on vehicle equipment and configuration. The EQS sedan has an EPA estimated range of 350 miles on a single change, according to the company website.

The EQS SUV has seating for seven, with room for up to four golf bags in the trunk of the vehicle. The interior of the SUV has three screens covered by a seamless MBUX Hyperscreen curved glass. One of the screens is dedicated to the passenger and not visible by the driver.

Other features of the vehicle include a driver-assist system, which can automatically operate acceleration and braking.

The new EV will compete not only with Tesla’s Model X but also with BMW’s iX SUV, Mercedes-Benz told CNBC.

Tesla’s Model X has an EPA estimated range of 333 miles on a single charge and is rated at 1,020 horsepower. Starting price of the EV is $108,940, according to the company’s website.

BMW’s iX has an EPA estimated range of up to 324 miles, depending on configuration, and is rated 610 horsepower. Starting price on the SUV is $83,200 to $105,100, depending on the model, the company’s website said.

It was unclear how much Mercedes-Benz’s EQS SUV would list for, but expectations have placed the EV at around $100,0000, CNBC reported. The EQS sedan has a starting price tag of $102,310 and $125,900, depending on configuration, the automaker’s website indicated.

Mercedes-Benz said it will produce the EQS SUV in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in the coming months, with arrival at dealers in the U.S. expected in late 2022, the automaker said. Batteries are supplied from a factory in nearby Bibb County.