At the top of the luxury EV market, the Mercedes-Benz EQS and BMW i7 take different approaches. The EQS is a sleek, aerodynamic sedan built from the ground up as an EV, while the i7 is the electric version of BMW's 7 Series. Here's how the 2026 models compare.
2026 EQS vs. i7 at a Glance
| Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ | BMW i7 eDrive50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP* | $99,900 | $105,700 |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 449 hp |
| EPA-estimated range | Up to 390 miles | 314 miles |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
Moving up, the EQS 580 4MATIC® starts at $123,900, and the i7 xDrive60 starts at $124,200 with 536 hp and 311 miles of range.
Range and Efficiency
The EQS's slippery, aerodynamic shape pays off where it counts for EV owners: range. With up to an EPA-estimated 390 miles, the EQS 450+ can make Fresno to the Bay Area or Los Angeles with miles to spare.
For 2026, the EQS also includes a standard NACS charging adapter, giving access to Tesla Superchargers along with other public fast-charging networks.
Design and Comfort
Inside, the EQS surrounds you with quiet, an airy cabin and available MBUX Hyperscreen, a single sweeping glass display across the dashboard. Standard air suspension smooths out rough pavement.
The i7 counters with a more traditional, formal sedan shape and an available rear-seat theater screen. Both are among the quietest, most comfortable cars on the road.
Technology
- MBUX with natural voice control and Navigation with Electric Intelligence, which plans charging stops for you
- Available MBUX Hyperscreen and Burmester® 3D surround sound
- Advanced driver-assistance systems and available rear-axle steering for a surprisingly tight turning circle
Which Luxury EV Is Right for You?
| If you want… | EQS | i7 |
|---|---|---|
| The lower starting price | ✓ | |
| The longest range | ✓ | |
| More base horsepower | ✓ | |
| A futuristic, aerodynamic design | ✓ | |
| A traditional sedan silhouette | ✓ |
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Experience the EQS
Take an EQS for a quiet test drive. Visit us at 7055 N Palm Ave or call Sales at (559) 254-4585.
*Starting MSRP excludes transportation and handling charges, taxes, title, registration, license, preparation and documentary fees, insurance, and dealer add-on products, accessories and associated labor. Pricing, specifications and feature availability vary by model and configuration and are subject to change. Confirm details with Mercedes-Benz of Fresno. EPA-estimated range is for comparison only; actual range varies with driving, weather and battery condition. BMW information is from publicly available sources; confirm with a BMW dealer.