Winner: Mercedes-Benz EQE
Mercedes is a byword for refinement and the addition of electric power has brought that refinement to a new level. The EQE is a fully-electric luxury saloon priced and sized similarly to the evergreen Mercedes E-Class and its exceptional civility and quietness endeared it to our jurors.
Most buyers will be happy with the EQE 350+ with its ability to deliver over 500 kilometres between charges, while those with deeper pockets and a hankering for more performance should check out the Mercedes-AMG 53 4Matic model with its 625hp, all-wheel-drive powertrain. While that one costs north of €135,000, entry-level prices are a relatively reasonable €85,295.
Runners Up
BMW 5 Series
The 5 Series has long been a benchmark in its class and though it’s a runner up this year, you wouldn’t bet against the all-new model (due to arrive in Ireland any day now) taking the top spot for 2024. Even the outgoing car has such a wide array of abilities including space, performance and comfort. With such a broad range of powertrains available, the 5 Series can cater to a wide sector of the market. Inclusion of plug-in hybrid models help with efficiency and if you want serious performance then you’re well catered for in the M5, or even the better-value M550i. An all-electric version headlines the arrival of next year’s new 5 Series.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The E-Class features so much of the comfort and futuristic tech of its bigger sibling, the S-Class, but delivers it with a much more palatable price tag. With such a varied list of powertrains and body styles, the E-Class ticks many boxes. It has a gigantic boot, plush interior and it drives well in any guise. In time for the 2024 awards will be an all-new E-Class, so there may be bargains to be had in the runout model now.
