# Mercedes EQS — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Mercedes EQS on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mercedes-eqs

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2022
- **Ideal trim**: EQS 450+ AMG Line Premium
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £44,490

## Why this model

The Mercedes EQS is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a truly luxurious electric saloon. It offers an incredibly smooth and quiet ride, a stunning interior packed with cutting-edge technology (like the Hyperscreen on some models), and a very impressive real-world range thanks to its large 100kWh liquid-cooled battery. It's basically an S-Class, but electric, so you get top-tier comfort and refinement. The initial depreciation hit on these high-end EVs has been significant, meaning you can now pick up a nearly new one for a fraction of its original price, making it a much better value proposition.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market trends (February 2026), a 3-4 year old Mercedes EQS 450+ AMG Line Premium with around 30,000-50,000 miles is typically selling for around £44,490. This reflects the broader softening of the used EV market and the steep initial depreciation of luxury cars. The 100kWh battery, with an expected degradation of ~1.8% per year, means a 2022 model should still have around 91kWh usable capacity at 5 years old, offering excellent range retention. You're getting a lot of car for your money compared to its new price.

## Which trim to buy

The EQS 450+ AMG Line Premium offers the best balance of luxury, range, and value. The 450+ rear-wheel drive model provides excellent range (up to 487 miles WLTP, around 380 real-world) and plenty of power for daily driving. The 'AMG Line' adds sporty styling cues, while 'Premium' brings desirable features like the Burmester surround sound system, augmented reality navigation, and a panoramic sunroof, without pushing the price too high like the 'Premium Plus' or more powerful 580 models. You get almost all the bells and whistles without the top-tier price tag.

## What to check before you buy

- Software glitches and infotainment system quirks are not uncommon, so check all functions thoroughly.
- Due to its weight and power, tyre wear can be significant, especially on larger wheel options. Check tyre condition and brand.
- The advanced air suspension system should be checked for any unusual noises or uneven ride height.
- Ensure all driver assistance features (like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping) are working correctly, as these are complex systems.

## Running costs

Running an EQS can be surprisingly affordable for such a luxury car, especially if you charge at home. With a real-world efficiency of about 3.8 mi/kWh, charging at a standard home rate (Ofgem cap 24.5p/kWh) will cost you around 6.4p/mile, or about £645 per year if you drive 10,000 miles. If you switch to a smart EV tariff like Octopus Go or Intelligent Octopus (around 9p/kWh overnight), this drops to a fantastic 2.4p/mile, costing only about £237 per year for 10,000 miles – a saving of £408 annually! Just avoid relying on public rapid chargers (18.4–22.4p/mile) for daily use. Road tax for EVs is free until April 2025, after which it will be £195 per year. Insurance will be on the higher side due to the car's value and performance, so always get quotes.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Electric
- **Horsepower**: 329-751 hp
- **Mpg**: N/A (Electric)
- **Reliability Score**: Good, but complex tech can lead to software quirks.
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2021)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| EQS 450+ AMG Line | £105,000 | £41,500 | MBUX infotainment system with 12.8-inch OLED central display; 12.3-inch digital driver display; 20-inch alloy wheels |
| EQS 450+ AMG Line Premium | £115,000 | £44,490 | All AMG Line features plus:; Burmester surround sound system; Panoramic sliding sunroof |
| EQS 580 4MATIC AMG Line Premium Plus | £140,000 | £58,000 | All AMG Line Premium features plus:; MBUX Hyperscreen (three integrated displays across the dashboard); Head-up display |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £44,490 | 0% |
| 2027 | £39,151 | 12% |
| 2028 | £35,236 | 10% |
| 2029 | £32,417 | 8% |
| 2030 | £30,147 | 7% |

The EQS has already experienced its steepest depreciation curve in its first few years. Buying a 2022 model in 2026 means you're getting it after this initial drop, making it a 'sweet spot' for value. While it will continue to depreciate, the rate should be more gradual compared to buying new. You'll benefit from a significantly lower purchase price while still enjoying a relatively new, high-tech luxury EV.

Total value lost since new: 32.23%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Porsche Taycan](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/porsche-taycan.md)
- [Audi e-tron GT](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/audi-e-tron-gt.md)
- BMW i7

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.