Mercedes has unveiled the 2027 EQS facelift, refining its flagship electric sedan with a combination of design updates and cutting-edge technical upgrades. Once labeled as a polarizing “technology carrier,” the EQS now aims to woo more customers with enhancements to styling, range, charging capabilities, and an optional steer-by-wire system inspired by Formula 1.

Updated exterior: a friendlier face for the EQS

One of the most noticeable changes to the 2027 EQS is its redesigned exterior, aimed at aligning more closely with contemporary Mercedes styling. Gone is the divisive EQ-specific design language. The front grille, now entirely illuminated with tiny stars, echoes the aesthetics of the newer CLA, with tighter integration of the daytime running lights and a prominent top light strip. Buyers opting for the AMG line will notice a central illuminated Mercedes star instead of the standalone “hood ornament” star.

Subtle touches, such as the addition of power dome accents on the hood, add to the sportier aura. The facelift introduces new options for paint finishes, including a glittering black color with embedded glass particles for added brilliance.

At a length of 206 inches (5.23 meters), the EQS remains a generously proportioned sedan. Wheels are available from 19 inches to 21 inches, with the largest variants sporting an aerodynamic design for efficiency.

Battery tech gets a major overhaul

The heart of the facelifted EQS lies under the floor, where Mercedes has reengineered its battery system. The top-tier EQS 580 now offers an enormous 122 kWh battery (net capacity), which is among the largest in any production electric vehicle available today. Mercedes claims this upgrade provides up to 370 miles (600 kilometers) of range at higher speeds and even more under city-driving conditions.

The smaller battery option also sees a significant leap, now rated at 112 kWh net—an increase of 16 kWh over its predecessor. This positions the smaller-battery EQS ahead of most competitors in terms of range and price-to-capacity value, making the car more accessible to a wide range of buyers.

In Europe, the EQS starts at 94,000 euros for the entry-level configuration with the smaller battery. Mercedes emphasizes that the lower starting price contributes to better leasing and taxation advantages, especially for corporate purchases.

Faster charging: 800-volt architecture

To complement its advanced battery setup, the EQS now benefits from an 800-volt charging architecture, which dramatically reduces recharging times. With peak DC charging rates of 330-350 kW, users can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes for the smaller model and 27 minutes for the larger one.

Adding flexibility, the facelifted EQS supports both 400-volt and 800-volt charging infrastructure, thanks to an onboard DC-DC converter. This eliminates compatibility issues with older stations while ensuring future-proofing for ultrafast chargers.

Steer-by-wire: advanced handling meets Formula 1 vibes

One of the standout innovations in the 2027 EQS facelift is its steer-by-wire system. This optional setup eliminates the mechanical steering column, replacing it with an electrical control mechanism. Steering inputs are transmitted electronically, offering faster and more precise adjustments.

The steer-by-wire technology is paired with a futuristic flat-top and flat-bottom steering wheel inspired by Formula 1. While polarizing in style, the wheel integrates real buttons for tactile feedback, a feature that Mercedes retains even on its more tech-forward designs.

The system also integrates seamlessly with the 10-degree rear-axle steering, which enables sharper cornering and greatly reduces the turning radius—an advantage particularly noticeable in parking and urban environments.

However, Mercedes encourages customer flexibility, as the steer-by-wire technology is not mandatory. Classic steering systems with up to 4.5 to 10 degrees of rear-axle steering remain available, catering to more traditional buyers.

Interior: luxury and high-tech functionality

The interior of the EQS retains its tech-heavy focus, anchored by the Hyperscreen infotainment system. A massive panel composed of three screens spanning the dashboard offers dynamic ambient lighting effects and customizable layouts. Subtle design tweaks enhance usability, including improved climate-control interactions and better driver visibility of the instruments.

Material options remain luxurious, with plenty of leatherette and microfiber finishes available, although not consistently across all markets. Mercedes has also added animal-free steering wheel materials for more ethical customization options.

Rear passengers benefit from increased comfort, including new optional comfort packages with additional cushions and expanded entertainment screen sizes. While not as plush as an S-Class, the EQS facelift strikes a fine balance between luxury and eco-conscious innovation.

Limitations: no frunk but plenty of tech

Despite these upgrades, the EQS still lacks a front storage compartment (frunk), a feature present in many competitors. Mercedes attributes this to the inclusion of a massive HEPA air filtration system under the hood to enhance cabin air quality.

Moreover, while the EQS boasts some of the best aerodynamic properties in the market—achieving a Cd value of 0.20—its tightly stretched roofline results in headroom constraints for taller passengers, particularly in the rear seats.

Pricing and market positioning

The EQS is no budget-friendly EV. The EQS 580 with all-wheel drive accelerates to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and starts at around 135,000 euros in its premium configuration. Fully loaded, these figures can soar beyond 150,000 euros, making the EQS a high-end offering for discerning luxury buyers.

Yet, the upgrade to the 2027 EQS places it in a strong position within the luxury EV market. With significantly better range, faster charging, and refreshed aesthetics, Mercedes distances its flagship EV from rivals, reaffirming its status as a technology leader.

The EQS, reinvented?

The 2027 Mercedes EQS refresh is more than cosmetic. By addressing criticisms of its polarizing design, overhauling range capabilities, and introducing tech innovations like steer-by-wire, Mercedes has made its flagship EV a formidable competitor. Whether these upgrades resonate enough to attract a broader audience remains to be seen, but as an electric "S-Class," the EQS now certainly looks and feels the part.