Mercedes-Benz EQS has received yet another update, but this latest round of upgrades is far more substantial than before. Unlike the refresh introduced in 2024, this update brings a new 800V electrical architecture along with a suite of advanced technologies—most notably, the introduction of steer-by-wire.
Before diving into the more significant updates, let’s take a look at the exterior. At a glance, it retains the familiar egg-shaped design that the EQ line has become synonymous with. Key changes include new star-shaped daytime running lights, giving it a slightly more distinctive lighting signature in line with the marque’s latest launches. It also gains new monoblock wheels, although the overall silhouette remains largely unchanged.
Beneath the surface, however, is where the biggest transformation takes place. While the EQS continues to use the same EVA2 platform, it now adopts an 800V architecture that brings bigger improvements over the previous 400V system. The battery capacity has been increased to 122 kWh, up from 118 kWh previously, while maximum DC fast charging has been boosted to 350 kW — double the 175 kW supported by the earlier 400V system.
With these new upgrades, Mercedes-Benz says the EQS is now capable of adding up to 320 km of range in just 10 minutes of charging, while a 10-80% charge can be completed in just 27 minutes. Range has also been significantly improved, now rated at up to 926 km on the WLTP cycle (an increase from the previous 822 km figure). Efficiency gains are further supported by an upgraded regenerative braking system, which now offers recuperation power of up to 385 kW.
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Performance has not been overlooked either. The updated EQS delivers up to 585 hp (430 kW), enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. A two-speed gearbox helps optimise both acceleration and efficiency across different driving conditions.
In addition, the EQS now supports both vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality, allowing it to feed power back into the grid or supply electricity directly to a home.
Its suspension system has also been improved with the introduction of new cloud-based damper regulation, working in conjunction with the Airmatic suspension system. If you’re unfamiliar, Airmatic can adjust electronically in anticipation of road conditions, such as preparing for an upcoming speed bump, resulting in a smoother ride.
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The new Mercedes-Benz EQS now comes standard with Digital Light, which now offers a 40% wider field of illumination while consuming 50% less energy. Its Ultra Range high beam is capable of illuminating distances of up to 600 metres.
Inside, the headline feature is the optional steer-by-wire system, which replaces the traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Paired with a yoke-style steering wheel, the system offers a 270-degree lock-to-lock range. Mercedes-Benz says it is the first German manufacturer to bring this technology to a production car.
Interestingly, the seatbelts are now heated, capable of warming up to 44 degrees Celsius. Just like the rest of the front passenger seats, this can be adjusted via the centre screen — in line with the brand’s signature “welcome home” experience.
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Finally, the updated MB.Drive Parking Assist system has been improved to detect parking spaces more effectively. It now supports diagonal parking and can perform automated parking manoeuvres at speeds of up to 5 km/h — around 60% faster than before.
For now, Mercedes-Benz has yet to announce pricing. However, as is typical with most model updates, prices are expected to creep up slightly. For context, the Mercedes-Benz EQS is currently offered in Malaysia from RM648,888 for the locally assembled (CKD) EQS 500 4Matic, up to RM798,888 for the AMG EQS 53 4Matic+, both on-the-road and excluding insurance.
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