New Mercedes EQE vs Porsche Taycan: verdict
As the electric equivalent of an E-Class, the new Mercedes EQE has the potential to shake up the executive car category. But first it’ll have to beat the Porsche Taycan...
![Mercedes EQE and Porsche Taycan rears](https://media.whatcar.com/fit-in/760x503/wc-image/2023-10/mercedes_eqe_and_porsche_taycan_rears.jpg)
Our verdict
Look up the definition of ‘a mixed bag’ and you might find a picture of the EQE. While it has attributes that are desirable in an executive car (namely, a long range, hushed cruising manners and plenty of standard kit), these have to be weighed against a jarringly inconsistent ride, grabby brakes and patchy interior quality. Pricier versions with air suspension are better – but not by enough to beat the Taycan.
Not only does the latter deliver the kind of straight-line performance you expect from a premium electric car, but it also exhibits thrilling handling and a smooth ride. And while there’s no getting away from the fact that it costs more to buy and run, its quality totally befits its price.
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1st – Porsche Taycan
![Porsche Taycan side Porsche Taycan side](https://media.whatcar.com/wc-image/2023-10/porsche_taycan_side.jpg)
For Punchier performance; sublime handling; composed ride; high-quality interior; more versatile luggage space
Against More expensive to buy and run; less efficient; you’ll want to add options
Recommended options Performance Battery Plus (£4454), 4+1 seats (£371)
![Mercedes EQE side Mercedes EQE side](https://media.whatcar.com/wc-image/2023-10/mercedes_eqe_side.jpg)
For Longer range; cheaper to buy outright or on PCP finance; more standard equipment; quieter at a cruise
Against Lumpy ride; grabby brakes; patchy interior quality; wallowy handling; rear seats aren’t the most comfortable or roomy
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 3 stars out of 5
Mercedes EQE review >>
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Specifications: Mercedes EQE 300 AMG Line Premium
![Mercedes EQE dashboard vent Mercedes EQE dashboard vent](https://media.whatcar.com/wc-image/2023-10/mercedes_eqe_dashboard_vent.jpg)
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 241bhp
Peak torque 406lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.9sec
30-70mph in kickdown 6.7sec
Top speed 130mph
30-0mph braking 8.6m
70-0mph braking 46.7m
Noise at 30mph 60.2dB
Noise at 70mph 65.6dB
Kerb weight 2355kg
Tyres (std) 255/40 R20 (front), 285/35 R20 (rear)
Battery capacity (usable) 89kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Peak charging rate 170kW
Charging time 7kW home wallbox (0-100%) 14hr 15min
Charging time rapid charger, peak rate (10-80%) 33min
Real-world range 267 miles
Official range 365 miles
Efficiency on test 3.0 miles/kWh
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Specifications: Porsche Taycan RWD Performance Battery Plus
![Porsche Taycan Sports Chrono lap timer Porsche Taycan Sports Chrono lap timer](https://media.whatcar.com/wc-image/2023-10/porsche_taycan_sports_chrono_lap_timer.jpg)
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 322bhp (402bhp on overboost)
Peak torque 254lb ft
Gearbox 2-spd automatic
0-60mph 5.2sec
30-70mph in kickdown 3.9sec
Top speed 143mph
30-0mph braking 8.3m
70-0mph braking 44.5m
Noise at 30mph 60.6dB
Noise at 70mph 66.7dB
Kerb weight 2125kg
Tyres (std) 225/55 R19 (front), 275/45 R19 (rear)
Battery capacity (usable) 83.7kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Peak charging rate 270kW
Charging time 7kW home wallbox (0-100%) 13hr 30min
Charging time rapid charger, peak rate (10-80%) 20min
Real-world range (est) 234 miles
Official range 313 miles
Efficiency on test 2.8 miles/kWh
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Mercedes EQE 300 AMG Line Premium with Manufaktur Alpine Grey paint (£695)
Porsche Taycan RWD with Frozen Berry metallic paint (£852), Performance Battery Plus (£4454), 20in Turbo aero wheels, Blackberry leather interior (£2792), Sport Chrono package (£875) and black side window trims (£269)