You‘re interested in upgrading to a cutting-edge electric luxury vehicle. Two enticing yet starkly different offerings have captured your attention – the all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS flagship sedan, and Tesla‘s category-dominating Model S. Let‘s examine how these advanced EVs stack up across the spectrum of performance, styling, technology and real-world usability.
As an experienced EV advisor, I‘ll serve as your guide through this in-depth comparison between the vanguard Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ and the benchmark Tesla Model S Long Range. We‘ll analyze how these electric flagships rival each other – delving into their powertrain specs, interior space, advanced driver assistance systems, charging compatibility and more.
By the end, you‘ll possess key data-based insights to inform which premium EV aligns best with your driving priorities and ownership experience expectations.
EQS vs Model S Overview
First, let‘s set the stage by orienting ourselves around what each brand sought to accomplish with their cutting-edge electric sedan entries.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS aimed to leapfrog its renowned S-Class and seize executive sedan leadership through sheer technological achievement. The brand‘s engineers employed advanced computational fluid mechanics to sculpt its cab-forward "one-bow" silhouette minimizing aerodynamic drag.
Inside, the EQS debuts second-generation MBUX connectivity with AI-enhanced natural voice control and augmented reality navigation guidance. By synthesizing user comfort, safety and efficiency at an unprecedented level, Mercedes believes they‘ve defined the electric luxury vehicle standard.
Meanwhile, Tesla‘s continual Model S refinement pursues stratospheric straight-line performance thresholds while maximizing practical clean transportation for the masses. As the original Tesla signature vehicle, the 2023 Model S Long Range balances elite-level acceleration with ample seating and 402 miles EPA-estimated range. Its minimalist cabin belies a high-tech powerhouse.
Now that we‘ve aligned on the ethos behind each automaker‘s electric flagship car program, let‘s scrutinize how they compare where rubber truly meets the road.
Driving Experience and Performance
A luxury flagship vehicle must excel dynamically while cosseting occupants in comfort. Do these rival electric vehicles deliver on those fronts? Let‘s crunch the data and experience what reviewers concluded.
Power and Acceleration
Spec | EQS 450+ | Model S LR |
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Power | 329 hp (Front) / 232 hp (Rear) | 412 hp |
Torque | 406 lb-ft (Front+Rear) | 487 lb-ft |
0-60 mph | 4.1 s | 3.1 s |
Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
No doubt about it – the Model S Long Range‘s impressive power-to-weight ratio gives it a decisive performance advantage. However, I‘ll note that the EQS provides perfectly adequate acceleration for merging and passing. Let‘s peek under the hood at what enables each vehicle‘s impressive straight-line speed.
Powertrain Deep Dive
The rear-biased Mercedes EQS all-wheel drive system intelligently vectors torque to maximize traction during full-throttle acceleration. Engineers also optimized the rigidity and weight balance of its dedicated EV chassis to preserve stability. Inside its sleek body, an air suspension system counteracts squat and dive by stiffening spring rates when needed.
By comparison, Tesla augments its aluminum Model S chassis and air suspension with electromechanical anti-roll bars to sharpen turn-in response. The tri-motor Plaid model extends performance supremacy even further for only $12,000 beyond this Long Range example. But admittedly, its lower Center of Gravity and sticky tires deliver sports car-like grip when desired.
Range and Efficiency
In the critical assessment of driving range per charge, the Tesla Model S Long Range once again leads this matchup:
Spec | EQS 450+ | Model S LR |
---|---|---|
Range (EPA) | 350 mi | 402 mi |
Efficiency | 28 kWh/100mi | 25 kWh/100mi |
Tesla‘s range advantage stems largely from its battery capacity edge – by roughly 15 kWh in this case. Credit also Model S‘s lower aerodynamic drag and mass helping it potentially travel up to 17% farther on the open highway.
Charging Comparison
I‘ll note the EQS can replenish 186 miles of range in just 15 minutes using 200+ kW DC fast charging, which slightly bests the Model S. Mercedes me connect also identifies charger locations and their capabilities. Of course, Tesla‘s vast proprietary Supercharger network delivers more convenient long-distance charging for its owners.
Ride Comfort and Handling
Reviewers praised the EQS suspension for gliding over road imperfections without quelling composed cornering responses. Rear-axle steering virtually extends the wheelbase at higher speeds for increased stability, transitioning to tighter turn-in when maneuvering parking lots.
By employing stereo multipurpose cameras, Mercedes also developed its E-Active Body Control System that previews upcoming pavement ripples or undulations. It then prepares damper firmness to maintain balance. Overall, the EQS furnishes a sublime balance of fluid movement and taut control.
The Model S conversely connects closely with underlying road textures unless cruise control engages. There, its standard adaptive air suspension smoothes outride choppiness. Credit precise steering and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for eager reflexes when hustling the Model S down winding roads. Just expect a firmer quality that prioritizes communication over coddling.
Expert Validation
One automotive evaluate called the Mercedes EQS "a magic carpet ride" praising its unflappable composure and minimal interior noise intrusion. While critics coronated the latest Tesla Model S update "a complete performance package." So again, it comes down personal preference – serene motoring isolation or engrossing dynamic engagement.
I‘ll emphasize that both the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model S deliver compelling driving experiences. One cossets passengers with whisper-quiet luxury. The other electrifies with its raucous performance. Fortunately, you can‘t go wrong based on dynamics alone. Next let‘s evaluate interior accommodations.
Interior Comfort and Luxury
For vehicles priced at the pinnacle of the market, expectations run understandably high for design and material quality advancing the onboard experience. Does either cabin environment sufficiently pamper its inhabitants? Let‘s find how these electric flagships compare inside:
Space and Layout
Spec | EQS | Model S |
---|---|---|
Front Hdrm | 40.5 in | 39.7 in |
Rear Hdrm | 39.4 in | 37.3 in |
Front Legrm | 41.7 in | 42.7 in |
Rear Legrm | 44.4 in | 35.3 in |
Cargo Capacity | 21 ft3 | 28 ft3 |
Inside, both EV flagships supply ample room for adult-sized passengers upfront. However, the Mercedes-Benz EQS leverages its larger footprint, stretched wheelbase and dedicated EV platform to furnish meaningfully improved rear seat spaciousness and nearly as much front cabin elbow room.
I‘ll acknowledge cargo versatility lags slightly behind the Tesla alternative though. Some critics questioned whether Mercedes emphasized sleek style over practicality here. Still, families need not fret – a small frunk supplements the modest but serviceable EQS trunk.
Ergonomics and Visibility
Mercedes-Benz strives placing all cabin controls within convenient reach, with logically organized center console buttons and drifting steering wheel column enhancing the driving position. Frameless side windows magnify sensed spaciousness, although restricted rearward sightlines marginally reduce parking confidence.
In signature minimalist fashion, Tesla centralizes most Model S functions within its large horizontally-oriented touchscreen. Unfortunately, its web-based menu layers require increased scrolling that can frustrate some drivers. Thankfully, superior thin-pillar outward vision aids maneuvering for most body types.
Materials and Detailing
MBTex simulated leather seats come standard, with Nappa leather available in a variety of coordinating color schemes. Open-pore wood inlays mingle with satin aluminum and piano black lacquer trim for a contemporary expression of luxury. Unique turbine-style air vents, ambient interior lighting and excessive badging announce the EQS experience.
Tesla adopts a reduced design motif also leveraging leather, Alcantara, carbon fiber and matte finishes in the Model S cabin. Critics note more hard plastic materials around the doors and dash than expected for its lofty price point. Nonetheless, the innovation leader continues improving here too – now offering a yoke-style steering wheel and second-row captain‘s chairs pushing the exclusivity quotient.
Core Technologies and Features
Electric vehicles live and die by the competency of their underlying battery and infotainment technologies enabling everything from charging to automated driving. How might our contenders satisfy those needs? Let‘s scrutinize the capabilities powering these heavyweight EVs.
Battery Tech
An 107.8 kWh battery underpins EQS 450+ driving range, constructed using proprietary nickel cobalt manganese chemistry. Thermal regulation maintains optimal operating temperatures for reduced degradation too. Mercedes backs its battery workmanship with a 10-year / 155,000 mile warranty manifesting confidence.
Comparatively, contemporary Tesla Model S editions employ a 100 kWh lithium iron phosphate modular battery architecture rewarding longevity over maximized density and range. Dispersed cooling mitigates thermal runaway risk as well. Tesla further backs its battery packs with an 8-year / 150,000 mile warranty reflecting durability faith.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Mercedes second-generation MBUX system runs comprehensive vehicle functionality including multi-display instrument layouts tailored to driving modes. Natural voice assistant comprehension improves via cloud support and interior microphones. Augmented video overlays onto applicable camera views as well. Up to seven onboard USB ports link devices.
Tesla‘s 15-inch horizontal touchscreen may lack tactile switches, but provides immense configurability. Over-the-air updates continuously upgrade maps, entertainment and driving functionality. Bluetooth links multiple phones as the potent audio system streams everything from Spotify to video. Expect more multimedia freedom here.
Advanced Driver Aids
Mercedes EQS ADAS suite includes superb lane centering assistance, smart cruise control with automated restarts and proactive speed limit sign recognition. A forward parking system automatically steers into spots spotted by exterior cameras and ultrasonic sensors. It‘s among the most comprehensive standard systems available.
Every Tesla Model S includes existing Autopilot capabilities like advanced adaptive cruise control, auto lane changes and self-parking. The $15,000 Full Self Driving option adds automated driving on city streets using pure vision-based neural networks. Critics argue capability claims exceed reasonable real-world functionality currently however.
Both automakers supply laudable standard safety technologies, while Tesla offers greater autonomy potential at added cost. I‘ll emphasize adhering to operational design domains remains critical given no vehicle yet furnishes full Level 5 capability however.
Verdict: Which Luxury EV Is Right For You?
Let‘s briefly recap key learnings between the state-of-the-art Mercedes EQS and continually evolving Tesla Model S across a few major categories:
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Performance – The Tesla Model S Long Range furnishes meaningfully brisker acceleration and higher top speeds from its well-matched electric powertrain. But the EQS 450+ still provides entirely adequate real-world peak power.
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Comfort – Inside, the Mercedes EQS cabins excels at coddling all passengers with its expansive dimensions and lavish materials. Superior sound insulation preserves its serene ambience, although the Model S offers greater cargo flexibility.
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Technology – Large touch surfaces govern both EV‘s tech experiences, yet the EQS adds greater voice control functionality and AR mapping integration. Its driver assist suite also seems more holistically baked-in versus Tesla‘s a la carte approach requiring Full Self-Driving package purchase.
So in summary – the Tesla Model S satisfyingly maximizes range and performance for the dollar, while the new Mercedes EQS doubles-down on space, silence and road-scanning cutting-edge driver assistance. Both vehicles masterfully advance electric mobility, but in different directions.
I suggest focusing on your seating needs, driving priorities and technology preferences to determine the best executive EV match. Seek a lengthy test drive if possible. And don‘t hesitate reaching out with any additional questions!