How do the EQS and BMW iX compare?
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No Mercedes yet
Last edited by finlayson; Dec 20, 2022 at 01:37 PM.
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From: Westchester, NY
2014 Mercedes E350 4matic Wagon, 2018 Fiat 124 Spyder Lusso manual, 2005 Acura TSX manual
Main one that comes to mind is a steering wheel heater button (I thought I remember one on the steering wheel - I know my x5 and 745 have one), Can’t even find one on the eqs. Only way I can activate I the steering wheel without the seats is via “hey Mercedes.”
of course I’ve only had the eqs 3 days and driven bmws for many years. More acquainted to the I drive interfaces.
of course I’ve only had the eqs 3 days and driven bmws for many years. More acquainted to the I drive interfaces.
I disagree with you about the physical button piece - iDrive still has a center console scroll wheel while MBUX 2 doesn't, but aside from that they pretty much have the same amount of physical buttons, except that the EQS has physical (well capacitive) heated and cooled seat buttons. I checked my videos and pictures and the iX doesn't have a physical heated steering wheel button either. Also having to go into the screen to adjust adaptive cruise following distance is a huge negative to me.
Other then that you make some great points about the iX. It really is a fabulous car and I think most poeple would not be dissapointed with either one.
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You guys all know the eqs well so don’t have a lot to add there but have spent some time in an ix m60. It’s a phenomenal vehicle and great value proposition compared to a loaded 580. Holler with any specific questions but in addition to the refinement of the entire experience I’d say that a stand out feature is the adaptive regen. It’s flawless and very smart
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From: SF Bay Area
EQS 580 SUV; previously Tesla Model S
You guys all know the eqs well so don’t have a lot to add there but have spent some time in an ix m60. It’s a phenomenal vehicle and great value proposition compared to a loaded 580. Holler with any specific questions but in addition to the refinement of the entire experience I’d say that a stand out feature is the adaptive regen. It’s flawless and very smart
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26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
You guys all know the eqs well so don’t have a lot to add there but have spent some time in an ix m60. It’s a phenomenal vehicle and great value proposition compared to a loaded 580. Holler with any specific questions but in addition to the refinement of the entire experience I’d say that a stand out feature is the adaptive regen. It’s flawless and very smart
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In my view, the iX M60 is not a direct competitor to the EQS 580 SUV. It will be more comparable to the EQE SUV AMG coming soon, and the AMG will likely be more luxurious with better appointments, and much better looking, IMO of course. To each his own, but for me, the EQS is the perfect large EV-SUV and has no direct competitor, yet. As I’ve posted before, I had an iX 50 on order for over a year, but it never made its way from Germany to the dealer before the EQS SUV presented itself. I knew in my heart I would end up in the Mercedes, so I’m glad the iX did not come in. I test drove their demo multiple times so I know how it drives and it is a very competent vehicle but it has some drawbacks. iDrive 8 is not the easiest system to use and the frameless doors don’t provide a solid feel when you close the doors. And while I wouldn’t call it ugly, BMW is known for beautiful vehicles and could’ve done a better job with the exterior. If you haven’t yet, take an EQS 580 SUV for a long drive.
EQE a more direct competitor, for sure, but EQS is somewhat close given that the third row in the EQS is there but doesn't add a ton of utility. Second row in the ix is excellent, felt like a shade more space to me but havne't checked the dimensions of to know definitively. And German vs German, kinda same universe of price but loaded 550 25k more than ix (17.5 after 7500 credit) so loaded versions of both not apples to apples.
Personally thought I would not like no physical buttons but they have climate right there at the bottom of the main idrive screen, and some physical buttons for Park assist, mode selection, and ride height, for example. Didn't find myself hunting for stuff.
Frameless doors bothered me in a 50 demo I drove, but didn't notice them in ix M60. Maybe the soft close feature dulled that a bit.
Re adaptive regen, it's very smart. On highways lets you cruise, in local stop and go traffic effectively one pedal driving. And smart enough to decipher the in between situations in a dynamic, and natural way.
Hanz zimmer zoom sounds a nice treat too.
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26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
BMW has lots of loyal buyers, no surprise some will go with an iX over an EQS SUV or the upcoming EQE SUV. As they say, it's your money, spend it as you see fit. Best wishes if you decide to purchase the iX M60. We are very happy with our EQS 580 SUV. Best car we've owned to date.
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From: Reading PA
26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
The iX M60 interior just doesn't compare to the EQS 580 SUV interior IMO. Check out this video, it really is a delight to drive at night.
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The iX M60 interior just doesn't compare to the EQS 580 SUV interior IMO. Check out this video, it really is a delight to drive at night.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs3hoCA3S8k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs3hoCA3S8k
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From: Westchester, NY
2014 Mercedes E350 4matic Wagon, 2018 Fiat 124 Spyder Lusso manual, 2005 Acura TSX manual
The EQS has adaptive regen too. I've heard great things about it. I'd be curious to see how the BMW and MB versions compare.
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2019 SL550/2023 EQS 580 SUV
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26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
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The iX M60 interior just doesn't compare to the EQS 580 SUV interior IMO. Check out this video, it really is a delight to drive at night.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs3hoCA3S8k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs3hoCA3S8k
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From: Reading PA
26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
The iX is a one off platform. BMW does not plan to make any other models based on this platform. It appears they built it to test the waters for a large EV SUV. You will know when they are serious about building electric vehicles in the United States when they build a battery plant here in the US like Mercedes Benz. At this point, Mercedes-Benz is much more committed to the future of electric vehicles and they invested billions of dollars in the future of EV’s in the United States and around the globe. BMW will get there but they are late to the dance.
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Mercedes calls it Intelligent Recuperation. I tested it in the iX demo I drove, and while it was good it wasn’t as refined or as intelligent as in the EQS version. It will slow the car when the blinker is on for a turn or when approaching a sharp curve or roundabout. It’s integrated with the mapping system to know what’s ahead. The Mercedes engineers did an excellent job with this option. Bottom line, the EQS cost more for a reason. It offers more features and luxury than the iX. I’m not knocking the BMW, I just don’t think they are comparable EV’s.
The money buys you the eqs interior aesthetic and more luxurious feel and slightly more insulated experience. My 0.02
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Lexus
Drive both cars a lot, I give slight nod to ix for its brake pedal. Regen is pickem, but feels more natural to me because the brake pedal is more natural.
The money buys you the eqs interior aesthetic and more luxurious feel and slightly more insulated experience. My 0.02
The money buys you the eqs interior aesthetic and more luxurious feel and slightly more insulated experience. My 0.02
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From: Reading PA
26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
interestingly this video by MKBHD was posted today and his biggest complaint seems to be braking
https://youtu.be/xhdV3xWmxgQ
https://youtu.be/xhdV3xWmxgQ
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I just watched it and the reason he complains about the braking is because he owns a Tesla Model S. I've never once found the brake pedal moving to be an issue. It's barely noticeable and makes a big deal about it. Not a true car reviewer. Just a Tesla owner who has lots of viewers.
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interestingly this video by MKBHD was posted today and his biggest complaint seems to be braking
https://youtu.be/xhdV3xWmxgQ
https://youtu.be/xhdV3xWmxgQ
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26 EQS 400 SUV, 23 EQS 580 SUV (sold), 19 X7 (sold), 17/14 GLS550 (sold), 13 GL550 (sold)
He knew little about the EQS and how it will be positioned in the US market. For example, the trim in his tester is not available in the US. I found his complaints trivial and biased based on his Tesla ownership. Tesla owners love one-pedal driving because that's what Tesla pushed down their throats. I tried it several times and would never use it. But that's just me I guess. He is a good reviewer of electronics, I just find his reviews of cars (including his own Model S) to be superficial. Maybe I'm the only one.
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He knew little about the EQS and how it will be positioned in the US market. For example, the trim in his tester is not available in the US. I found his complaints trivial and biased based on his Tesla ownership. Tesla owners love one-pedal driving because that's what Tesla pushed down their throats. I tried it several times and would never use it. But that's just me I guess. He is a good reviewer of electronics, I just find his reviews of cars (including his own Model S) to be superficial. Maybe I'm the only one.
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From: Chesapeake, Virginia
EQS 580 and EQS 580 SUV
As others have said, it came down to being able to receive delivery by year end. Had an IX on order since March and never made it to production. Would have waited if not for the IRS rule changes on the credits.
Started looking at other options and found the EQS.
While the iX is cheaper there are a few things I like much better on the EQS (These are all opinion!):
1. Build quality seems more luxurious. Leather and suppleness throughout where the Ix seems more focused on the eco green aspects
2. Ride comfort and quietness a step up from the Ix (IMHO).
3. Very comfortable seats. Much More so than what was on the dealer IX demo. I ordered the upgraded multi contour massage seats, but never sat in them. So not a good comparison to make a real judgement.
4. IX drove more like a sport utility (sporty drive factor) vs the S class luxury feel of the EQS. Personal choice, but I have come to like the luxury comfort over the sportiness.
5. I’ve already mentioned luxury a few times.
6. I do like the sound effects of the Ix over the EQS. I prefer the futuristic wooshing over the fake motor sounds. And some sounds on the EQS are just bizarre. Like the metal on metal grinding sound when you are idling or taking off. It goes away at 30 mph, but just a strange sound. I thought something was wrong at first
Update edit - after further reading this seems to be the sound generator for pedestrians. Just a weird slightly irritating sound I wish could be turned off on the inside.
7. The EQS seems bigger. Not sure of the specs but the EQS feels bigger. It will take a third row of seats which is not an option on BMW.
8. Doors. I have never been a big fan of the glass directly against the body panel doors. Feels flimsy and cheap. I like the heavy framed doors of the EQS.
9. Controls are more intuitive in the IX and (I think) it has real buttons for common features where it makes sense. (Like certain seat controls, steering wheel heater, ac controls, etc….EQS is mostly all touch screens and sliders.
Update - after seeing the "Multi Function" seats - the physical seat controls are pretty much the same. See below for addition details.
10. Wheel options are better on the EQS.
11. You can actually buy an EQS.
After a couple of weeks of diving here are a few updates:
1. I really like the rear wheel steering of the EQS (10 degrees). Amazing turn radius.
2. I am getting much better range than published (At least math wise). I have left it unplugged for a week now and still plenty of battery. Based on the consumption and remaining battery indicator, the math works out to 350+ miles on a charge. (Rated at 285 - EQS 450 4matic). I'll let you know if this holds true.
3. Seat comfort in the EQS is winning hands down. BMW dealer finally got a loaded M60. (After I have been waiting 9 months and purchased the EQS. Come to find out that "Multi Function" seats are NOT the same as "Multi Contour" (Chip shortage??). Only additional functions besides up/down/forward/backward are the lumbar and wing bolsters. No thigh adjustment, no upper seat tilt adjustment, and didn't really look at headrest adjustments. AND massage is only lumbar massage and ONLY on the driver side. No lumber or massage for passenger. I assume they will become available later when chips are back in supply. EQS has full body massage AND seat kinetics for both Driver and Passenger.
4. EQS Light shows (interior and exterior are amazing)
5. Haven't decided if I am a fan of the electric shading on the sunroof of the IX. I like the old school retractable shade on the EQS. The IX "shading" seems dark enough, but I can still see the sun peeping down on me from above. Not sure how that will fair when the temps get back to 110 degrees this summer - No it's not Global warming. Its always that hot around here. :-0
6. Have come to like the "Metal" switches and controls (Window and seat controls) in the EQS over the Crystal controls in the IX (Seat and center control knob). While BMW did a really nice job on the crystal in my X5, its comes across as a little "over the top" in the IX.
7. One thing I find amusing is the back up up Beeping. I forget and keep thinking there is a delivery truck around me somewhere.....
8. EQS was not warning me of cross traffic when backing up. Found the setting to turn that on and works now, Just weird its a separate setting you have top activate separate from the other safety and parking aides.
9. Another quirk that I cant seem to adjust is the collision warning that beeps when I am standing still waiting to pull out and another vehicle makes the right hand turn into the street/lot I am sitting on.
10. Now there are a couple of things that have happened that are a little concerning: Have only happened once so far.
A. Late afternoon the car suddenly slammed on its brakes in the middle of the road to keep me from "crashing into" a shadow that was crossing the road.
B. Pushed the start button and the only thing on the dashboard was a message "Critical Malfunction". Had to turn off the car and open/close the door to get it to reset and start.
Started looking at other options and found the EQS.
While the iX is cheaper there are a few things I like much better on the EQS (These are all opinion!):
1. Build quality seems more luxurious. Leather and suppleness throughout where the Ix seems more focused on the eco green aspects
2. Ride comfort and quietness a step up from the Ix (IMHO).
3. Very comfortable seats. Much More so than what was on the dealer IX demo. I ordered the upgraded multi contour massage seats, but never sat in them. So not a good comparison to make a real judgement.
4. IX drove more like a sport utility (sporty drive factor) vs the S class luxury feel of the EQS. Personal choice, but I have come to like the luxury comfort over the sportiness.
5. I’ve already mentioned luxury a few times.
6. I do like the sound effects of the Ix over the EQS. I prefer the futuristic wooshing over the fake motor sounds. And some sounds on the EQS are just bizarre. Like the metal on metal grinding sound when you are idling or taking off. It goes away at 30 mph, but just a strange sound. I thought something was wrong at first
Update edit - after further reading this seems to be the sound generator for pedestrians. Just a weird slightly irritating sound I wish could be turned off on the inside.
7. The EQS seems bigger. Not sure of the specs but the EQS feels bigger. It will take a third row of seats which is not an option on BMW.
8. Doors. I have never been a big fan of the glass directly against the body panel doors. Feels flimsy and cheap. I like the heavy framed doors of the EQS.
9. Controls are more intuitive in the IX and (I think) it has real buttons for common features where it makes sense. (Like certain seat controls, steering wheel heater, ac controls, etc….EQS is mostly all touch screens and sliders.
Update - after seeing the "Multi Function" seats - the physical seat controls are pretty much the same. See below for addition details.
10. Wheel options are better on the EQS.
11. You can actually buy an EQS.
After a couple of weeks of diving here are a few updates:
1. I really like the rear wheel steering of the EQS (10 degrees). Amazing turn radius.
2. I am getting much better range than published (At least math wise). I have left it unplugged for a week now and still plenty of battery. Based on the consumption and remaining battery indicator, the math works out to 350+ miles on a charge. (Rated at 285 - EQS 450 4matic). I'll let you know if this holds true.
3. Seat comfort in the EQS is winning hands down. BMW dealer finally got a loaded M60. (After I have been waiting 9 months and purchased the EQS. Come to find out that "Multi Function" seats are NOT the same as "Multi Contour" (Chip shortage??). Only additional functions besides up/down/forward/backward are the lumbar and wing bolsters. No thigh adjustment, no upper seat tilt adjustment, and didn't really look at headrest adjustments. AND massage is only lumbar massage and ONLY on the driver side. No lumber or massage for passenger. I assume they will become available later when chips are back in supply. EQS has full body massage AND seat kinetics for both Driver and Passenger.
4. EQS Light shows (interior and exterior are amazing)
5. Haven't decided if I am a fan of the electric shading on the sunroof of the IX. I like the old school retractable shade on the EQS. The IX "shading" seems dark enough, but I can still see the sun peeping down on me from above. Not sure how that will fair when the temps get back to 110 degrees this summer - No it's not Global warming. Its always that hot around here. :-0
6. Have come to like the "Metal" switches and controls (Window and seat controls) in the EQS over the Crystal controls in the IX (Seat and center control knob). While BMW did a really nice job on the crystal in my X5, its comes across as a little "over the top" in the IX.
7. One thing I find amusing is the back up up Beeping. I forget and keep thinking there is a delivery truck around me somewhere.....
8. EQS was not warning me of cross traffic when backing up. Found the setting to turn that on and works now, Just weird its a separate setting you have top activate separate from the other safety and parking aides.
9. Another quirk that I cant seem to adjust is the collision warning that beeps when I am standing still waiting to pull out and another vehicle makes the right hand turn into the street/lot I am sitting on.
10. Now there are a couple of things that have happened that are a little concerning: Have only happened once so far.
A. Late afternoon the car suddenly slammed on its brakes in the middle of the road to keep me from "crashing into" a shadow that was crossing the road.
B. Pushed the start button and the only thing on the dashboard was a message "Critical Malfunction". Had to turn off the car and open/close the door to get it to reset and start.
Excellent, excellent review!
I was in the same position in regards to waiting. Had a $100k loaded iX 50 on order since March for my wife. Gave up in December waiting on a build and bought the EQS 580 SUV. Loved it so much, I bought an EQS 580 sedan for myself! I did drive both, so I had a couple of additional comments.
- I thought the iX ride was softer than the EQS SUV. I couldn't feel a single bump in the iX.
- The exterior on the iX is hard to get past, but there's absolutely No comparison on the interior experience vs the EQS. The EQS is hands down way more impressive with the giant screens, LED lighting and passenger dash controls that are absent on the iX.
- The passenger experience in the iX is pretty basic. "Nothing to see here..." Just ugly.
- The rear hatch and storage in the EQS is fantastic.
- Ok, you pay for the EQS. Ours was $145k, but had the dual motors and you'd have to move to the iX 60 for that and would approach $130k.
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I just watched it and the reason he complains about the braking is because he owns a Tesla Model S. I've never once found the brake pedal moving to be an issue. It's barely noticeable and makes a big deal about it. Not a true car reviewer. Just a Tesla owner who has lots of viewers.
