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The all-new EQE is the EV version of the E-Class, and it's impressive.

For 2023 the Mercedes-Benz all-electric EQ family will expand with the EQE. The new electric version of the bread and butter E-Class is a pivotal vehicle for Mercedes-Benz, and they are pulling out all the stops. The EQE is a smaller-scale version of the EQS in the same way the standard E-Class is a smaller version of the S-Class. The EQE features many of the same groundbreaking features as the EQS, along with its enigmatic if not controversial design language. The EQE feels like a premium sedan from the next decade with a greater focus on the driver. Now that the Model S is moving further upmarket, the EQE essentially shares this price bracket with the Polestar 2 and upper trim level Tesla Model 3's. Potential buyers will find the EQE more impressive in almost every aspect.

Note: While we wait for official word from consumers on the upcoming EQE, HotCars' 'Costs, Facts, And Figures' rating defaults to 1 out of 10. Once we start fielding what owners think of this upcoming vehicle, we'll be sure to update the score to reflect what drivers think.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE launches with two diverse powertrains that aim for two different sets of E-Class buyers. The base variant is the EQE 350+, the plus designates long range, and we expect a small battery variant sometime next year. The 350+ uses a single motor in the rear beneath the trunk floor, producing 280 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the 500 increases power to 402 horsepower and 633 lb-ft of torque. An AMG variant is in the works for release in mid-2023.

All EQE variants launch with a 90.6 kWh battery pack which Mercedes-Benz produces in-house in Hedelfingen, Germany. The plant is carbon-neutral, running entirely on renewable energy. At the same time, the battery packs now feature a minuscule amount of cobalt, as Mercedes-Benz works to eliminate precious metals from the batter entirely. Mercedes-Benz also commits to using ethical sources for lithium with minimal environmental impacts, though they plan to produce lithium in the near future synthetically. The range at launch for the EQE is 406 miles in the efficiency-driven 350+ and 352 miles in the 500. Both of these numbers are from the WTLP European rating cycle. The stricter EPA numbers will likely come with a certification of approximately 5-10% less as it also considers worse-case scenarios like freezing temperatures and high speeds. The EPA figures are due for release this fall when the EQE begins shipping.

Related: Mercedes-AMG Reveals EQE Performance Sedan

Despite a departure from the traditional in-line six-cylinder, the EQE still provides confidence, inspiring E-Class performance, and handling. The base EQE 350+ accelerates to 60 in a brief 5.6-seconds and tops out at 130 mph. While that is more than palatable for most standard E-Class drivers, those seeking performance can go for the 500, which reaches 60 in only 4.5-seconds. While quick, it still falls short of the Model 3 performance, but it is not all about 0-60 times. The EQE outpaces every other EV in the segment with the best suspension, and handling money can buy. The EQE combines adjustable air suspension and adaptive dampers that create the most adjustable ride in the industry. For performance scenarios, the suspension is stiff with little body roll, while on the highway, the air suspension is soaking up every bump, turning the EQE into an isolation chamber. Passive rear-wheel steering keeps the turn radius tight and parallel parking a breeze at low speeds.

When it is time to charge the EQE, the navigation can quickly find a charging station and tell you whether or not it is in use. On your way, the battery will condition itself to accept up to 200 kWh of charging power. An 80% charge happens in under 30 minutes. Though the built-in EV-centric navigation means you will rarely charge that long on trips, the system routes through 200-mile or so jaunts for quick 10-minute pit stops that only require 40-80% charges. Mercedes-Benz also includes an at-home fast charger with purchase.

Related: 10 Upcoming 2023 Cars That Are Worth Waiting For

The interior of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE is as breathtaking as the exterior. While it feels like a concept car, this is indeed a production vehicle. Buyers will first notice the 64-color ambient lighting that even traces along the seats and elevates the futuristic design language. The EQE is the only car with standard seat heating and ventilation in this class. The rapid heating seats can also provide a hot stone massage after a tiring day. A beautiful three-spoke steering wheel features touch capacitive controls for the driver's display and a massive infotainment screen. It also features controls for level three autonomous driving. On highways and interstates, the EQE operates totally hands-free, even changing lanes and overtaking to maintain a preset speed.

A rectangular display in front of the driver features range, energy consumption, speed, and gorgeous 4k graphics for navigation and media. A head-up display projects guiding arrows onto the windshield over the road ahead to show navigation instructions. The centerpiece is the optional hyper screen set up, which includes a massive 12.8" OLED screen as well as an additional optional screen for the passenger. While the standard portrait screen is plenty large, the hyper screen is excellent for watching Netflix or Youtube during a recharge.

The MBUX is top-notch with automatic software updates and 5G connectivity. It is one of the few systems without lag and is as responsive as even the best smartphone. The center console features cupholders and wireless charging. Overhead a panoramic sunroof that opens is a welcome feature. The rear seat is sparse with USB-C connectors and a standard armrest with cupholders. The headroom is tight for six-footer's thanks to the EQS's sloping roof line. The hatchback is also tight, with 15 Cu-Ft of space. Sadly like its big brother, there is no front trunk.

Related: This Is What We Love About The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+

Despite falling surprisingly in-line with the E-Class, family pricing is decidedly premium, as one would expect from a brand like Mercedes-Benz. The base 350+ will start at approximately $68,000 and rise to roughly $80,000 for a top-trim variant. For the price, consumers receive excellent Mercedes-Benz build quality, technology that outpaces electric and combustion competition alike, and the thrill of being among the first to step into the future with Mercedes-Benz. Deliveries for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE begin this fall, but new orders will likely see deliveries in Q1 of 2023.

Randy Gardner is a writer, entrepreneur, and general car nut based in Orlando, Florida. Randy was born into the car scene, spending his entire childhood hunting down and restoring classic cars with his father. From 1950s MoPars to 1980s Saabs, it's no surprise his primary focus is on the unloved underdogs of the car world. Randy began contributing to Hot Cars in March of 2021.