Ask tech professionals, Tesla devotees and Mercedes enthusiasts to name a cutting-edge electric SUV for the next era of transportation, and two clear choices emerge: the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model X. These battery-powered family vehicles capture the visions of their respective brands blended with tech from tomorrow. This showdown comparison highlights everything potential buyers need to know based on the specs, features and progress of these EV pioneers.
Redefining Expectations
The Mercedes EQS and Model X stand as statement vehicles from two companies charting vastly different paths to electric. While Elon Musk explicitly aims to rework and simply all forms of production, Mercedes evolves while upholding a tradition of luxury craftsmanship dating to the earliest days of the automobile. How these translate to an actual vehicle purchase depends greatly on the priorities and values of the individual buyer.
The Game-Changing EQS
As Mercedes‘ new electric flagship, the EQS debuted in 2021 embodying the marque‘s future using motors instead of engines. Inspired by the Vision EQS shown two years prior, the production EQS retains the incredibly low 0.20 coefficient slicing through the air for serene stability.
- 355 hp rear mounted electric motor
- 108.4 kWh under-floor mounted battery
- 350 mile max range (WLTP standard)
- 4.5 seconds 0 to 60 mph
- $102,310 starting MSRP
Mercedes injects the EQS experience with bleeding edge tech enabled by rapid recharge speeds as fast as 200 miles in 15 minutes. The optional Hyperscreen spans door-to-door with adaptive OLED displays tuned to user needs via sensor and voice activated AI. A pre-conditioned battery means consistent range and temp control session to session.
The Category-Defying Model X
In signature Musk fashion, the Model X arrived years later than planned thanks to overly ambitious engineering like its exotic falcon wing doors. Yet despite delays, the Model X vaulted electric SUVs squarely into the limelight as a legitimate segment when deliveries began in late 2015.
- 670 to 1,020 hp tri-motor configuration
- 100 kWh under-floor mounted battery
- 348 mile max range
- 2.5 seconds 0 to 60 mph (Plaid)
- $114,990 starting MSRP
While the EQS pushes luxury boundaries, the Model X rewrites performance rules. Leading with its 17 inch touchscreen, the minimalist yet spartan Model X interior focuses purely on function. Tesla‘s global fast charging Supercharger network lets road trip warriors repower 100 miles in just 5 minutes. Continuous over-the-air updates add functionality and value over time.
Delving Into the Details
Mercedes and Tesla take distinct approaches evident across dimensions like design, performance and utility. Where the EQS cocoons with elegant style, the Model X thrills with outrageous acceleration. Interesting contrasts arise in range ratings, interior layout, storage flexibility and semi-autonomous driving capability as well.
Powertrain Performance
| Spec | EQS 450+ | Model X Long Range | Model X Plaid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Rear Permanent Magnet | Dual Induction | Tri Motor |
| Power | 355 hp | 670 hp | 1,020 hp |
| Torque | 419 lb-ft | 728 lb-ft | 1,050 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 s | 3.8 s | 2.5 s |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph | 163 mph |
Clearly the Model X leverages its performance advantage. Even the entry Long Range outpaces the EQS to 60 mph by a full 3 seconds, quite a gap for impatient enthusiasts. The Plaid‘s headline 2.5 second blast to 60 mph crushes exotic supercars costing 10 times as much. The rear drive EQS promotes efficiency over speed.
Utility and Flexibility
Similar exterior dimensions aside, the EQS and Model X deploy interior space quite differently. Both seat 5 to 7 passengers across three rows. Cargo flexibility goes to the Model X.
| Utility | EQS | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 205.4 in | 198.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 126.4 in | 116.7 in |
| Cargo Capacity | 74 ft3 | 91.6 ft3 |
Note the cavernous front trunk and fold-flat second row seats in the Model X allowing more usable cargo room. The EQS gets back at the Model X with superior ingress and egress thanks to the elongated wheelbase and rear-hinged back doors. Still for road trips and home improvement hauls, the Model X better utilizes its footprint.
Technology and Autonomy
Both vehicles showcase advanced interfaces yet the Mercedes system proves more adaptable and contextual versus the Tesla‘s fixed touchscreen layout. Conveniences like over-the-air updates and Apple/Android integration weigh more heavily for tech savvy buyers.
| Technology | EQS | Model X |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Panel | 12.8 in. Touchscreen + Hyperscreen | 17 in. Touchscreen |
| Infotainment UI | Natural voice recognition | Tesla OS |
| Phone Integration | Android Auto/Apple Carplay | Bluetooth |
| Semi-Autonomous Driving | Pilot Assist Package | Standard Autopilot |
While Tesla holds an edge today implementing autonomous functions like auto lane changes, Mercedes has proven highly adept historically advancing driver assistance tech. Expect the gap to continually narrow with both brands promising fully self driving capabilities pending further testing and regulations.
Efficiency and Charging Considerations
Belying its size, the EQS actually bests the Model X when it comes to driving range efficiency thanks to clever measures like pre-conditioning. Mercedes notes real world figures approaching 95% of the generous EPA ratings. Cold or hot weather takes a higher toll on Tesla range.
Both vehicles offer comprehensive public and home charging options. With over 25,000 Superchargers worldwide, Tesla maintains the decisive infrastructure advantage at least for now. That lead will likely shorten as Mercedes expands partnerships with other networks like Electrify America and EVGo.
| Efficiency | EQS 450+ | Model X Long Range |
|---|---|---|
| Range (EPA) | 350 mi | 348 mi |
| Electricty Use | .31 kWh/mi | .38 kWh/mi |
| DC Fast Charge | 31 min (10-80%) | 26 min (10-90%) |
Note the EQS achieves an 11% advantage in electricty use versus the Model X. That directly translates into lower charging costs per mile. However, the Model X juices up quicker at Supercharger peak rates. Most daily use cases only require topping off from home charging.
Which Electric SUV Reigns Supreme?
So taking account all factors, is one vehicle clearly better overall? Well, the answer lies with the user. Those wanting visceral performance in an eco-friendly package find the Model X a perfect fit. Customers seeking whisper quiet refinement opt for the aristocratic EQS. Both vehicles push boundaries in opposing directions – the Model X with outrageously quick acceleration benefiting families, the EQS wrapping owners in spa like tranquility on the road.
Within the EV landscape, Tesla maintains an edge in battery innovation, networked intelligence and charging infrastructure…for now. Yet Mercedes-Benz sets standards luxury brands aspire toward with a customer experience honed over a century. The Model X and EQS expand our collective understanding of transportation‘s future where electric propulsion enhances life‘s journeys.
As range limits push past 400+ miles for top tier models, EVs make more sense economically too. Total cost of ownership models now favor electric power as battery durability proves on par with the drivetrain itself. Strong resale projections even suggest potential value parity with gas counterparts over just a three to four year span.
So which way to go? There‘s no universal right answer. Bungee jumping families hauling ATVs and snowmobiles will get more from the cavernous, crazy fast Model X. Executives gliding home from the country club will bask in the sublime sanctuary of the EQS. Both vehicles commendably advance EV expectations. The decision ultimately comes down to the owner‘s lifestyle and personal tastes.
Now charging ahead even farther, who knows what additional envelope pushing designs Mercedes, Tesla and others have already mapped out deep in their R&D labs!
