--- title: "The 2027 Mercedes EQS Is Flashier in Every Way, But Also a Better EV" date: "2026-04-13" modified: "2026-04-13" authors: - name: "Joel Feder" job_title: "Director of Content and Product" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/joel-feder" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/news/the-2027-mercedes-eqs-is-flashier-in-every-way-but-also-a-better-ev" categories: - "Mercedes-Benz News" - "News" - "News by Brand" tags: - "Electric Vehicle" - "EQS" - "luxury" - "Mercedes" - "sedan" --- # The 2027 Mercedes EQS Is Flashier in Every Way, But Also a Better EV ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() *\Joel Feder\* Mercedes-Benz’s flagship EV has had a rough go of it. From dealers saying the EQS isn’t [“aspirational” enough]() to [offering massive discounts]() because nobody was buying the large liftback sedan, it’s been struggling. At one point, we even heard that the EQS would just [be replaced by an electric S-Class](), and production of the EV for the U.S. market [was paused altogether](). But manufacturing [resumed](), and the car is even [getting a midcycle refresh](). On Monday, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS debuted with a tweaked design, more range, more gears, faster charging, and an upgraded interior, all in a bid to stir sales. Oh, and it debuts Merc's [new steer-by-wire system with a yoke](). ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() **Joel Feder** When the 2027 EQS arrives in the U.S. later this year, its battery pack will grow from the current car’s capacity of 118 kWh to 122 kWh. But the battery pack itself isn’t larger—it’s just more energy dense. That extra battery capacity should take today’s EPA-estimated range of 385 miles to about 420 miles on a full charge. A new two-speed transmission, first seen in the electric CLA and now more recently in [the electric GLC-Class](), will help the EQS go the distance, improving efficiency through different gear ratios for different speeds. The transmission is hooked up to new electric motors, which should also be more economical. They'll check in at 544 and 585 horsepower, depending on configuration. It’s all running on a new 800-volt electrical architecture. The system will enable up to 350 kW of charging, which will allow the EQS to add up to 175 miles of range in just 10 minutes, in ideal conditions. When plugged into a 400-volt fast-charging station, the EQS will virtually split its battery pack, for a peak charge rate of 175 kW. ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() While plenty has changed under the metal skin, the overall stance and design of the EQS holds steady. The plastic grille that [received the S-Class treatment]() carries over, but now has backlit stars embedded in it. The [stand-up hood ornament]() can be backlit, too, to ensure everyone knows you’ve arrived. Inside, optional front-door panels have stitched laurels evoking the Mercedes logo. The cupholders, which apparently EQS customers complained about, have been redesigned and feature new silver trim. Buyers even get [heated front seatbelts, just like the updated S-Class](). ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() ![2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS]() But it’s the steering yoke that grabs your attention. Its design is more starship than Tesla, with closed loops to grab on both ends, forcing—or at least encouraging—a proper nine-and-three hand placement. The yoke, and steer-by-wire system it’s paired with, will be optional in the U.S. for a yet-to-be-determined price. Mercedes-Benz hasn’t said how much the updated EQS will cost when it arrives in showrooms later this year. *Got a tip about future product? Send us a line at tips@thedrive.com* ## Author Overseeing what you see, read, touch, hear, and interact with from the vast lakes of Minnesota, Joel Feder shapes how The Drive looks and operates as the head of content and product initiatives. On a daily basis, Joel leads the newsroom and editorial staff playing point on both short-term coverage and long-term strategic plans. His mission is to help ensure The Drive shapes the future of automotive media by helping the team execute original reporting, breaking news, and exclusive opportunities. Regarded as an industry insider and recognized by colleagues, fellow journalists, and manufacturers as a point-person and leader in the industry, Joel owns and runs the largest automotive professionals group on Facebook in an effort to serve and help others. Joel serves as a juror for the World Car Awards. In addition, he is the board chair and chair of the governance and nominating committee for Move Forward MN, a local non-profit that helps at-risk youth with barrier-free mental health and housing services. While you’re reading this he’s either on his computer or iPhone chasing the latest news or drafting a story. ### Author social links [Instagram]() [LinkedIn]() [Bluesky]() [Email]()