BMW M5 vs Mercedes-Benz EQE
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW M5 starts from $259,900 before on-road costs, while the Mercedes-Benz EQE opens at $149,900. That makes the Mercedes-Benz EQE the more affordable entry point by $110,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $285,890 and $164,890 respectively.
The Mercedes-Benz EQE qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The BMW M5, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz EQE hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 89% for the BMW M5 and 95% for the Mercedes-Benz EQE.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 7 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW M5 and 9 in the Mercedes-Benz EQE.
Feature Showdown
The BMW M5 features a 14.9-inch touchscreen, while the Mercedes-Benz EQE gets a 12.8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW M5 stands out with ventilated seats and Bowers & Wilkins audio that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz EQE. The Mercedes-Benz EQE counters with Burmester audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW M5 uses a Plug-in Hybrid producing 535kW and 1000Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.5 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz EQE responds with a Electric making 215kW and 565Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds.
The BMW M5 has the clear power advantage at 535kW vs 215kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW M5 is 2.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW M5 measures 5,096mm long on a 3,006mm wheelbase, 150mm longer than the Mercedes-Benz EQE at 4,946mm (3,120mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz EQE generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 530L in the BMW M5 and 430L in the Mercedes-Benz EQE, giving the BMW M5 a 100L advantage.
For towing, the Mercedes-Benz EQE leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m to 11.9m
Based on 11.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW M5) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz EQE). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW M5 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz EQE if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz EQE takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the BMW M5 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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