The 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is a large luxury electric SUV offering standard five-passenger seating with an optional third row for up to seven. It competes in the segment alongside models like the BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Rivian R1S. The 2026 lineup carries over much of the prior design with updates that eliminate the rear-wheel-drive model and rename trims for simplicity, standardizing dual-motor all-wheel drive. The entry-level EQS 400 4MATIC trim features a 118-kWh battery pack powering dual permanently excited synchronous motors that produce 355 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles.
The MBUX Hyperscreen comes standard as a 56-inch curved glass panel uniting a 12.3-inch driver's display, 17.7-inch central touchscreen, and front passenger screen into a cohesive AI-driven interface. It provides quick access to functions through voice commands activated by 'Hey Mercedes,' wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and augmented reality navigation. Among the 2026 enhancements are a standard NACS adapter for Tesla Supercharger compatibility, heated second-row seats, a second-row wireless phone charging pad, and pillowed headrests. The Mercedes me connect app supports remote operations including engine start, climate preconditioning, and vehicle health monitoring, with over-the-air software updates to enhance performance and features ongoing.
What You're Really Signing Up For
- Acceleration boost and rear steering locked behind subscriptions.
- Extensive data collection from in-cabin cameras and microphones.
- Shares driving data and collision photos with Mercedes and law enforcement.
- Remote deactivation possible through connected services.
- Privacy policies hard to understand pre-purchase.
Top Reported Issues
The most frequently mentioned problems by owners
Extensive Data Collection
Mercedes-Benz vehicles and Mercedes me connect services collect extensive personal data including bi...
Acceleration Boost Subscription
The EQS SUV has hardware capable of faster acceleration, but Mercedes locks the full performance boo...
Rear-Steering Unlock Fee
The EQS SUV's rear-axle steering hardware supports up to 10 degrees of turning for better maneuverab...
Shares Data with Law Enforcement
Mercedes-Benz shares personal information, sensory data like audio and video, with law enforcement a...
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
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