Or maybe the average customer won't notice.
Mercedes-Benz has dropped some new specification updates on the US-bound Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV. The hot EV is expected to arrive at dealers shortly and is the first high-riding EQ to receive the AMG treatment.
The US-spec model will receive Nappa leather upholstery and the Mercedes Hyperscreen as standard. The AMG Dynamic Plus package will be an optional extra, however.
It's an odd choice to leave one of the most desirable features on the table, as the Dynamic Plus package uses a selection of advanced systems to create five driving modes for maximum fun. More importantly, with this package, the driver will have access to 677 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque provided by the dual motor setup.
With Dynamic Plus included, the available driving modes consist of Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport +, and Individual. These drive programs change the power output, suspension settings, power distribution between the two motors, and even the sound experience. In addition to the above, the driver can override the default suspension setup in all modes above to one of three settings. You can, for example, have 100% power in Sport + but a smoother suspension setup by putting the dedicated AMG Dynamic Select button in Comfort.
Mercedes actively limits the power output according to the driving modes, a useful tool. In Slippery, you only get access to 50% of the power, which is 308 hp. Given the instant response of an electric motor, it's probably a good idea. You only get the full 100% in Sport +, while Race Start with the Boost function activated gives you 110% for a short burst.
In this mode, the car produces 677 hp and can hit 60 mph in an estimated 3.4 seconds.
But that's not all. The top speed is also increased to 149 mph, which is relatively low for an AMG model. Even the cheapest AMG on sale in the USA, the CLA 35, will happily get you to 155 mph.
Finally, the package includes the AMG Sound Experience's “Performance” mode and AMG-specific graphics on the various Hyperscreen displays. The former uses the onboard bass actuator and speakers to provide an “emotionally charged sound backdrop to the rapid acceleration.”
Still, even without these features, the AMG EQE SUV remains an attractive alternative to the gas-powered GLE, though it remains to be seen how it will stack up against the fierce Tesla Model X Plaid, which comes standard with 1,020 hp and a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds. And it will likely be a lot cheaper.
Keyword: America's Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV Missing Vital Standard Feature