Mercedes-Benz has revealed the facelifted EQS, with the updated electric luxury sedan bringing changes to its powertrain, range and onboard technology. The update brings a new 800V electrical architecture, improved battery efficiency and higher claimed driving range.
The EQS facelift also gets updates to its design and feature set, along with revised driver assistance systems. It is offered globally in multiple variants: EQS 400, EQS 450+, EQS 500 4MATIC and EQS 580 4MATIC. The EV can be expected in India,
- Optional steer-by-wire tech to be offered
- Updated front and rear fascia
- Predictive air suspension now uses cloud-based road data
- Regenerative braking increased to up to 385kW
Mercedes EQS facelift powertrain, battery and range
The EQS facelift introduces updated electric drive units and battery options aimed at improving efficiency and range. The EQS 450+ now offers a claimed WLTP range of up to 926km, which is around 13 percent higher than before, making it one of the longest-range electric sedans currently on sale globally. The EQS 400 has a claimed range of up to 817km, while the EQS 500 4MATIC and EQS 580 4MATIC offer up to 876km.
Battery capacity now goes up to 122kWh, with a 112kWh option available on the EQS 400. Power outputs range from 367hp to 585hp, with all-wheel-drive (4MATIC) offered on the EQS 500 and EQS 580 variants.
The EQS supports DC fast charging of up to 350kW, allowing up to 320km of range to be added in 10 minutes under WLTP conditions. It also supports bidirectional charging functions such as vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid, depending on market availability.
A two-speed transmission on the rear axle is now part of the drivetrain, with a shorter first gear for acceleration and a longer second gear aimed at improving efficiency at higher speeds. Regenerative braking has been increased to up to 385kW, a 33 percent increase, allowing most deceleration in everyday driving to be handled through energy recuperation. The air suspension system has also been updated with cloud-based inputs, allowing it to adjust damping based on road conditions detected by other vehicles.
Mercedes EQS facelift exterior design
The EQS facelift retains its coupe-like silhouette but gets updates to its front and rear styling. The front end has been revised with a new illuminated Mercedes-Benz star and a redesigned grille featuring a backlit star pattern. The "Digital Light" headlamps can project high beams up to 600 metres and are more closely integrated with the light bar. The DRLs feature star-shaped elements, in line with the lighting signature seen on newer Mercedes models such as the S-Class, CLA and GLC EV. The bumper design has also been revised with a larger airdam and chrome elements.
At the rear, the light bar has been updated with new internal detailing, while the bumper gets a revised design with more pronounced diffuser elements.
The EQS continues to priorities aerodynamic efficiency, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.20.
Mercedes EQS facelift interior and features
Inside, the EQS continues with the MBUX Hyperscreen, which integrates three displays under a single glass panel. The system now runs on Mercedes’ MB.OS software and supports over-the-air updates. It also gets a new MBUX Virtual Assistant with AI capability, along with navigation that factors in energy usage and charging requirements.
The EQS facelift will also get an optional yoke-style steering wheel, paired with steer-by-wire technology that will be introduced a few months after launch. Mercedes says this tech will be the first for a German manufacturer on a production car.
Driver assistance systems have been updated, including enhanced lane assist and evasive steering support, backed by multiple sensors. Parking assist has also been enhanced, with faster operation and the addition of diagonal parking capability.
Rear-seat passengers get twin 13.1-inch screens for entertainment and vehicle functions such as climate control. Other features include a HEPA air filtration system and heated front seatbelts.
The EQS facelift is expected to go on sale in Europe and the US by the second half of 2026. There is no official word yet on an India launch, although it can be expected to arrive on our shores sometime next year.
Suraj Viswanathan
Uday Singh
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dipan Sur
