The holiday season often presents challenges – balancing festive cheer with the endless to-do lists of decorating, family gatherings, and gift shopping. But this past festive season, the Mercedes-Benz EQE350 4MATIC SUV turned what could have been a chaotic time into an electrified joyride. Over the course of a month with this luxury EV, I discovered its capabilities and how it seamlessly intertwined with our family’s holiday traditions.
With the holiday spirit comes the inevitable spending – lavish meals, thoughtful gifts, and bright decorations. Add fuel costs to that, and the festive budget can quickly get out of hand. However, the EQE350 proved to be a game-changer in this regard. Its range of 460 to 550 km per charge and affordable electricity costs meant I had more to splurge on presents for the family. For the first time, charging the car felt like a gift to my wallet rather than a dreaded expense.
ELECTRIFIED HOLIDAY DRIVES
The Mercedes-Benz EQE350’s performance was as much a part of the festivities as the decorations. Powered by dual electric motors producing 215 kW and a torque-heavy 765 Nm, every drive was a thrilling reminder that the future of motoring is here. I’ll admit I indulged in showing off the SUV’s instant acceleration more than once. Whether merging onto a busy highway or pulling away at a traffic light, the EQE350 made every moment special.
It wasn’t just about speed – the refinement stood out as well. The cabin remained whisper-quiet even on rougher roads, making holiday commutes surprisingly peaceful. This calm allowed us to enjoy the festive playlists my daughters enthusiastically curated.
FAMILY TESTED, FESTIVE APPROVED
As a family of seven, practicality is paramount, and the EQE350 delivered without compromise. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodated us and the numerous shopping bags and decorations we’d picked up along the way. The 580-litre boot became a hero during those shopping trips, effortlessly holding everything we needed.
Inside the cabin, the atmosphere was an experience in itself. My kids loved the ambient lighting, which we set to festive reds and greens. The MBUX infotainment system, however, stole the show. During one tranquil drive, my daughter said, “This silence is deafening.” Without missing a beat, her sister commanded, “Hey Mercedes, play us some Christmas carols.” The car responded instantly, filling the cabin with holiday cheer as we sang.
ADVENTURE COMPANION
From Christmas-light tours to impromptu road trips, the EQE350 became more than just a mode of transport; it became part of our holiday memories. Its adjustable regenerative braking was a blessing in traffic-heavy hotspots, while its smooth ride made even the longest journeys feel effortless. And when we weren’t driving, charging stops became opportunities to grab a cappuccino or enjoy a moment of stillness amidst the holiday hustle.
LAST WORD
After spending over a month with the Mercedes-Benz EQE350 4MATIC SUV, it’s safe to say it wasn’t just a car but a lifestyle upgrade. From the money saved on fuel to the quiet joy it brought to family moments, this electric SUV proved that going green doesn’t mean compromising luxury or performance.
As the Christmas lights came down and the new year rolled in, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness as I handed back the keys to my colleague, who will now have the last stint with it. The EQE350 wasn’t just an electrifying ride; it was a part of our festive story. For anyone considering an EV, take it from me: the Mercedes-Benz EQE350 isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a companion and one you’ll be reluctant to part with.
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © BERNIE HELLBERG JR
