After weeks of living with back-to-back AMGs, from the wild, square-shouldered brutality of the G-Class duo to the sleek, razor-sharp athleticism of the CLE 53 Coupe, it felt like my senses had been tuned entirely to the language of petrol powered performance. The burble, the thunder, the sharp responses and the sheer theatre of AMG machinery had dominated my drives. So when the keys to the Mercedes EQS 450 landed in my hand, it felt like someone had pressed a reset button on my automotive instincts.

No roar, no crackles, no mechanical theatrics, just a calming silence inviting me to step into another dimension of luxury. After days of absorbing AMG adrenaline, it was time to go fully electric. And not just electric, electric in Mercedes’ flagship style.

What unfolded next was not a typical EV test. It turned into a story of quiet discovery, of range, comfort, family moments and a new kind of indulgence that doesn’t shout but whispers luxury. And it all started the moment I pointed the EQS towards Mumbai for a real-world test that would redefine my expectations.

DESIGN

The Mercedes EQS 450 carries the unmistakable aura of a flagship EV. Its smooth, organic silhouette and aerodynamic stance give it an almost sculpted calmness. There are no aggressive cuts or flashy interruptions, just clean surfaces, flowing lines and a quiet confidence that feels premium without ever being loud.

On the road, the EQS has presence. It looks substantial yet beautifully refined, futuristic yet unmistakably Mercedes.

The grille panel, subtle chrome traces and the distinctive LED signature all come together to create an aesthetic that whispers sophistication rather than shouting performance. This is a luxury electric SUV designed not to provoke but to glide.

INTERIROS

Step inside and the EQS 450 immerses you in a world of tactile luxury and intuitive tech. Soft materials, wraparound ambient lighting and the flowing dashboard architecture create a serene cocoon that feels both modern and indulgent.

The 5-seater configuration transforms the rear cabin into a true lounge. Drawing on the 7-seater EQS SUV’s experience, the second row becomes a command centre with twin seatback screens, ambient lighting controls, and a tablet tucked into the armrest. It’s a first-class environment, complete with pillow-soft headrests and beautifully finished trims that make even short drives feel special. Then comes the boot, a genuine revelation.

Unexpectedly massive, genuinely practical and perfect for everything from airport runs to family adventures. My mother turned it into a full-blown theatre during a spontaneous shopping trip

parade, filling bag after bag while marvelling at how much the EQS could accommodate. Few luxury EVs blend indulgence and usability this seamlessly.

COMFORT AND SAFETY

Comfort is the EQS 450’s true superpower. Its air suspension smoothens every imperfection on the Pune Mumbai highway, gliding over rough stretches with the composure of a flagship sedan.

Even at triple digit speeds, the cabin remains remarkably hushed, insulating occupants from wind noise and external chaos. Ride quality is beautifully plush, with only a hint of body movement, nothing that disturbs the EQS’ deep sense of calm. Mercedes’ clever GPS-linked suspension raise feature is a delightful everyday luxury, automatically lifting the car at known speed breakers for seamless crossings.

Safety, too, is uncompromised. Multiple airbags, robust driver aids, and Mercedes’ sophisticated digital assistance suite create a cocoon of protection. Rear-wheel steering significantly enhances confidence, making the EQS feel much smaller than its actual size when navigating city corners.

PERFORMANCE

Powered by a 355BHP electric drivetrain, the EQS 450 delivers power like silk, smooth, steady and quietly confident. A gentle tap of the throttle unleashes an effortless surge, carrying the SUV to 100kmph in a claimed 6.1 seconds without disturbing the tranquil cabin.

THE EQS 450 DELIVERS AN ELECTRIC RANGE THAT TRANSFORMS EV DRIVING FROM CALCULATION TO PURE JOY.

The real magic lies in efficiency. My Pune Mumbai Pune run showcased just how capable the EQS is in real world travel. I set off with a full charge and 637km displayed on the cluster, and after the entire journey, complete with Mumbai traffic, detours, and family errands, I returned home in Pune with 25 per cent battery remaining and 137km of range still in hand.

It’s the kind of range performance that turns EV driving from a calculation into a joy. Rear-wheel steering tightens the turning circle dramatically, making manoeuring in tight spaces surprisingly effortless..

Yes, the steering touch controls are still a bit finicky, but the passenger touchscreen and the superb Burmester audio help restore balance to the interface experience

VERDICT

The Mercedes EQS 450 isn’t about brute force or headline-grabbing acceleration. It champions something far more precious: the quiet, refined and deeply premium experience that makes every journey feel special.

At ₹1.33 crore (ex-showroom), it delivers extraordinary real-world range, indulgent comfort, serene ride quality and remarkable practicality.

all wrapped in the soft glow of electric sophistication. For families, long-distance travellers or anyone who values the luxurious side of electric mobility, the EQS 450 stands out as one of the most complete EVs you can buy in India today. Quiet. Confident. Remarkably premium. Elite Quiet Serenity isn’t just a headline; it’s the EQS way of life.