2026 S-Class S 500 Sedan vs 2026 EQS 450+ Sedan Powertrain

The main difference between these two sedans is that one is electric and one isn’t. The S-Class S 500 Sedan has a traditional gas-powered engine: a 3 L inline-6 turbo engine with mild hybrid drive, to be exact. Mild hybrid drive helps to increase fuel economy and efficiency, but it isn’t as efficient as a truly electric powertrain.

The EQS 450+ Sedan, on the other hand, has a Permanently Excited Synchronous electric motor. It gives the EQS an EPA-estimated electric range of up to 390 miles. Plus, it means zero emissions and zero stops at the gas station for you.

How do the S 500 and EQS 450+ compare in power outputs? The S 500 is rated at up to 442 horsepower. That makes it more powerful than the EQS 450+, which is rated at a still-commendable 355 horsepower.

2026 S-Class S 500 Sedan vs 2026 EQS 450+ Sedan Cargo Capacity

One other major difference between these vehicles is cargo capacity. Since electric vehicles have smaller powertrains, they often offer extra storage space. This is true of the EQS 450+ Sedan, which offers between 22 and 63 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Even the low end of this range is still substantially larger than the S 500 Sedan’s cargo capacity of 12.8 cubic feet.

Which Mercedes-Benz Sedan Should You Drive?

The Mercedes-Benz Sedan that you should drive depends on several factors. First, do you like traditional gas power, or do you feel ready to try an EV? The electric powertrain is the main difference you’ll notice in your day-to-day driving. Remember that an EV will require a space to charge it at home, or you’ll have to charge it with a public charging station. Other key differences can be explored with a test drive here at Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, AZ.