2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: A Real-World EV Sedan Comparison
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6 Highlights:
- The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan exudes the upscale quality and comfort you would expect from the German automaker.
- The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is surprisingly more comfortable than you would think. It also has a few tech-savvy tricks up its sleeve, including a 361-mile range.
- The Mercedes EQE 350+ sedan starts at $75,000, which is over $30,000 more than the Hyundai Ioniq 6.
With more electric vehicle making their way into the market every year, it can be tough to choose the right one. Luxury brands, like Mercedes-Benz, are electrifying their models to lure buyers with deep pockets. But those who aren’t as financially endowed can check out more affordable models from Hyundai.
Two popular models from both brands are the 2023 Mercedes EQE sedan and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. I’ve had a chance to drive both cars recently, so here is a real-world comparison between them.
| 2023 Mercedes Benz EQE Sedan | 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $74,900 | $41,600 |
| Trim levels | Three trim levels | Four trim levels |
| Engine Types + Sizes | Single or dual-motor setup | Single or dual-electric setup |
| Horsepower + Torque | 288 – 402 hp | 149 – 225 hp |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | Single speed | Single speed |
| Acceleration + Top Speed | Up to 306 miles of range | Up to 361 miles of range |
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan
- Pros: The Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan has plenty of tech-savvy features and a potent powertrain with up to 306 miles of range.
- Cons: It’s pricey and well out of many buyer’s budgets.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE is one of the brand’s latest EV offerings as part of its EQ lineup. It’s essentially the electrified version of the E-Class sedan and an entry-level way for new luxury buyers to get into an EV. However, it’s worth noting the EQE starts at $75,000, which is considerably more than its gas counterpart and the Hyundai Ioniq 6 I’m comparing it to.
That said, the Mercedes EQE sedan is very comfortable on the road and has all of the tech features anyone could need, including LED interior lights. The main highlight, though, is its potent electric powertrain that provides plenty of on-demand torque while achieving up to 306 miles of range, depending on the trim level.
2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6
The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is the brand’s flagship EV sedan and one of its latest offerings. In addition to being value-packed with features, the Ioniq 6 has plenty of power and is relatively affordable with its $41,600 starting price.
Hyundai sent me an Ioniq 6 Limited to test for a week, and I was impressed with the quality of its craftsmanship, features, and range. The car’s interior was comfortable and filled with tech-savvy features like a 12.3-inch infotainment system, heated/ventilated seats, Apple CarPlay, and a household outlet in the rear seat. All things considered, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 presents a better value proposition than the EQE sedan.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Driving and Performance
Driving the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE is a serene and comfortable experience. The cabin is well-insulated from the outside noises, and the ride is soft and compliant over road imperfections. There’s plenty of power from the car’s dual-motor setup, thanks to the large amount of instantaneous torque.
Interestingly, the same sentiments can be said about the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6. The South Korean automaker has stepped up its game in recent years, and it’s apparent in its electrified vehicles. The Ioniq 6 exuded many of the same buttery-smooth ride and driving qualities as the EQE sedan. However, I will say that it felt a little less powerful, and its steering was less precise.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Interior and tech
The Mercedes-Benz EQE and the Hyundai Ioniq have many of the same tech features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, heated/ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. However, the phone connectivity is wired in the Hyundai and wireless in the Mercedes.
The Ioniq 6 has a leg up over the EQE with its rear-seat household outlet, a plethora of USB ports, and a larger infotainment screen. The Mercedes has the Hyundai beat in terms of overall interior comfort and luxury, though, as its upholstery and touch points feel higher quality.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Charging times
One of the most important aspects of owning an EV is how long it takes to charge it. As such, charging the Mercedes-Benz EQE from 0 to 100% on a level 2 charger takes 9.5 hours, according to Mercedes. Connecting it to a DC fast charger can charge the battery from 10 to 80% in only 31 minutes.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 charges just as quickly. A level 2 50-kW charger can take the battery up to 80% in only 73 minutes, and a 350-kW fast charger can do it in just 18 minutes. A regular level 2 charger (240V) can charge the battery up to 80% in around seven hours.
During my time with the Mercedes-Benz EQE, it took 45 minutes to charge it from 53 to 96% with a 57-kW charge. The Ioniq 6 charged quicker than the Mercedes as taking its battery from 49 to 75% only took 15 minutes at a rate of 67-kW.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Which EV luxury sedan should you pick?
If you want the luxury of a Mercedes-Benz and have $75,000 (or more) to spend, the EQE sedan is a great way to get into the luxury EV market. It has all of the tech features you could want in addition to the style and upscale craftsmanship you would expect from the German automaker. However, if you want to spend half the amount of money while still getting a dose of luxurious comfort, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is hard to beat
