Move over Tesla Model X, you’ve now got stiff competition from Mercedes-Benz after the launch of its electric EQS large SUV.

Deliveries of the spectacular electric vehicle are due in New Zealand in the first half of 2023, with prices and specifications to be announced closer to the launch date. But you can expect the EQS to be priced close to the Model X that start from $182,990 

The new three-row utility vehicle will be built in Mercedes' U.S. factory in Vance, Alabama, USA. And it’s the American market that the brand is expecting to see success.

The EQS SUV is the "perfect fit" for crossover-crazed America, said Britta Seeger, Mercedes-Benz sales and marketing chief.

The SUV offers plenty of space, comfort and connectivity for up to seven passengers in its avant-garde, luxurious interior. Thanks to powerful electric motors, responsive 4MATIC all-wheel drive and an intelligent OFFROAD driving mode, the EQS SUV is also capable of tackling light terrain with ease.

The new EQS SUV shares the long-wheelbase (3210 millimetres) with the EQS sedan but is over 20 centimetres higher. It is 5125long, 1959wide and 11718 millimetres high. 

The interior dimensions benefit from these generous SUV dimensions and from the advantages of the purpose design tailored to the electric platform, says Mercedes.

The second row of seats can be electrically adjusted as standard. Up to four golf bags fit in the boot. A third row of seats with two additional individual seats and extensive comfort features for all passengers is available as an option.

"In the first quarter, we've tripled the sales of full-electric vehicles (compared with a year ago)," said Seeger. "We also see a huge request from the customers asking for full-electric battery vehicles."

As for the all-important electric range, Mercedes says it has been tested to 600km. 

The EQS' MBUX operating system can learn the driver's habits and schedule, recommending phone calls or a change of comfort modes during long drives. MBUX also offers a zero-layer user interface that gives occupants access to customizable driving and comfort modes.