Mercedes-Benz EQS vs. Tesla Model S: Which Luxury EV Is Right for the Hamptons?

If you want to invest in a trusted luxury auto brand for driving around the Hamptons, the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Tesla Model S both represent the best of what electric vehicles (EVs) can offer. Mercedes-Benz has been perfecting its craft since Carl Benz patented his first internal combustion engine car — the Benz Patent-Motorwagen — in 1886. Now it's become one of the world's largest premium vehicle brands. As for Tesla, it revolutionized the EV industry. These two take very different approaches to luxury electric driving.

Performance and Range

This Mercedes EQS vs. Tesla Model S comparison gets interesting when you dig into what each car actually delivers. The EQS 450+ puts out 355 horsepower and 419 lb-ft of torque, getting you from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Plus, you'll get up to 390 miles on a single charge. The EQS 450 4MATIC increases torque to 590 lb-ft and reaches 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The EQS 580 4MATIC bumps things up to 536 horsepower and 633 lb-ft of torque, dropping that 0 to 60 time to 4.2 seconds. This upgraded power reduces range to 371 miles.

Tesla plays a different game entirely. Its 670-horsepower dual-motor Model S hits 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and stretches range to 410 miles. The high-performance Plaid variant will absolutely destroy anything in its path with a 0 to 60 time under 2 seconds, though you'll only get 368 miles of range.

However, the EQS isn't trying to be a drag racer. It's engineered for those peaceful drives out to Montauk where you want to arrive refreshed, not rattled. The ride quality and cabin silence make every trip feel like a first-class experience.

Interior and Comfort

One glance inside either car and you'll immediately understand what sets them apart. The EQS wraps you in heated, cooled, and massaging seats with more adjustments than you'll probably ever use. Every surface is covered in premium leather and wood trim options that feel as good as they look. The nappa leather center console even recognizes your fingerprint to load your personal settings. Want to set the mood when you're heading to a sunset dinner in East Hampton or driving back from the city late at night? You can choose between 64 ambient LED lighting color options.

Rear passengers get their own heated, reclining seats with USB-C ports because why should the driver have all the fun? Every surface you touch feels deliberate, crafted with the kind of attention to detail you'd expect from a luxury brand with over a century of experience.

Tesla takes the opposite approach: clean, minimal, and functional. The Model S features comfortable standard seats, while the Plaid gets sportier ones for enhanced support, but both share the same stark interior philosophy. It's well built but lacks the tactile luxury you get from traditional premium materials.

Technology and Infotainment

Mercedes' MBUX Hyperscreen is a massive 56-inch display that spans your entire dashboard. It's actually three screens working together: a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 17.7-inch OLED center touch screen, and a 12.3-inch passenger display. It uses artificial intelligence to learn how you use everything and automatically adjust brightness, plus it'll even hide pixels you're not using. Just say "Hey, Mercedes" to activate the voice assistant.

The system's innovative zero-layer interface learns your habits and suggests things before you even ask. Plus, you get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Mercedes me connect app features, and over-the-air updates to keep everything current. Some models even add augmented reality navigation.

Tesla's 17.4-inch touch screen works well enough, and it's definitely intuitive, but there's no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. If you're someone who uses your iPhone all the time and expects your car to work with all your apps and services, the Mercedes system makes more sense.

Charging Experience

Charging becomes a real consideration when you're constantly moving between the city and your weekend place. The EQS handles this beautifully with DC fast charging that'll get you from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. For home charging, it's compatible with both Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. A NACS DC fast-charging adapter also comes standard, and the MB.CHARGE Public feature simplifies locating and paying for charging. On the other hand, Tesla allows you to charge up to 205 miles in just 15 minutes at a large number of charging stations globally.

The charging landscape around Southampton keeps getting better. Rivian just opened a beautiful 2,000-square-foot charging outpost at 1 Montauk Highway in Southampton with six fast chargers. Tesla's Supercharger network used to be the clear winner, but that advantage is shrinking as they open up to other brands and more charging infrastructure pops up across Long Island. Both cars have solid charging options now — it's really about which EV fits your lifestyle better.

Experience the EQS Difference at Mercedes-Benz of Southampton

Tesla's direct sales model can't match the personalized service experience you get working with Mercedes-Benz of Southampton. We understand luxury car ownership, know the local community, and are here when you need us.

For those who've always appreciated fine craftsmanship, proven engineering, and the confidence that comes with automotive heritage, the Mercedes-Benz EQS makes more sense than the alternatives. Visit Mercedes-Benz of Southampton to test-drive the EQS and experience why it's become the luxury EV of choice for discerning drivers throughout the Hamptons.