MERCEDES-BENZ EOS SUV 450 4MATIC

EV equivalent of the GLS is created using hardware from the talented EQS saloon

- ILLYA VERPRAET

Mercedes-Benz steered itself into a spot of nomenclatural bother with its first full-production EVs. The EQA, EQB and EQC are all SUVs because they are electric versions of the GLA, GLB and previous GLC. But the EQS and EQE are saloons, because Mercedes wanted to show just how aerodynamic it could make an EV.

So what to call the SUV versions? M The answer is simply MercedesBenz EQS SUV. A little inelegant, perhaps, but effective. Much like the new car's design. With its stubby bonnet and tall sides, it's not the most dynamic-looking car, but it does offer a lot of space, and a 0.25 drag coefficient is good for a big SUV.

We have tested Mercedes' electric behemoth in the US, but now it has landed in the UK. As is typical with Mercedes, the UK range is less expansive than it is elsewhere. All EQS SUVS get a huge battery pack with 108.4kWh of usable capacity, but while other regions have a range of motor options, only the 355bhp 450 4Matic and 536bhp 580 4Matic are coming here.

There's also next to no personalisation. You can have an AMG Line Premium Plus or a Business Class, and other than a few special paints and the option of the Hyperscreen, there are no options.