Mercedes-Benz is continuing the local rollout of its EQ family of fully electric vehicles by introducing the EQB, a compact SUV that joins the compact EQA and medium EQC SUVs, plus the EQS luxury sedan, in its line-up.

Available with seating for up to seven people and up to 1710 litre of storage space, the EQB has a 66.5kWh battery and the two-model range starts with the 250 variant, which is has a seven-seat option and which uses a single e-motor, delivering 140kW and 385Nm, to run the front wheels. A range of 371km is claimed.

The second variant is the 350 4MATIC which has dual e-motors, a combined output of 215kW and 520Nm, and a driving range of 360km.

The EQB can be charged up to 11 kW with an AC charging system, or up to 100 kW using DC charging. Both models in the EQB range incorporate a Type 2 CCS charging socket, while charging cables for use with Australian domestic sockets and public charging stations are also supplied with either vehicle.
Standard specs for the range are, as you would expect, very high.

A widescreen display features two 10.25-inch, high-resolution screens. The driver’s instrument panel can be customised with a number of pre-loaded themes, while the central screen acts as the portal to access the MBUX infotainment system, which includes audio, telephony, and navigation controls as well as a number of vehicle settings. A leather multi-function steering wheel also enables control of some features.

Seats are finished in ARTICO upholstery (a man-made leather substitute) and front seats are electrically adjustable and heated. The centre console includes a wireless charging mat for supported smart devices. Dual-zone climate control, DAB+ digital radio, Apple and Android smartphone integration, an advanced sound system and ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours are all standard inclusions.

Also included is the Driver Assistance Package featuring a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience systems led by DISTRONIC active cruise control with Active Speed Limit Assist, plus Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. The standard Parking Package includes the PARKTRONIC parking assistant and a 360-degree camera. A KEYLESS-GO Comfort Package includes an electrically operable tailgate including hands-free access.

The EQB 250 includes acoustic ambient protection, which mitigates the risk posed to pedestrians and cyclists by the vehicle’s silent drivetrain by sounding a warning at speeds below 20 km/h.

Other key features include adjustable damping suspension with multi-link rear suspension, LED high-performance headlights with Adaptive Highbeam Assist and featuring EQ-specific blue elements, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, and the Progressive Exterior package featuring chrome and aluminium trims. 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light alloy wheels are fitted.

Available solely in the five-seat configuration, the EQB 350 has sports seats with adjustable head restraints, a multi-function sports steering wheel in Nappa leather, backlit spiral-look trim elements, AMG floor mats and illuminated door sills.

Exterior features include an electrically controlled panoramic glass sunroof, AMG-specific body styling including extra chrome trim pieces, a diffuser look for the rear apron, and 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels.

The Mercedes-Benz EQB 250 is priced at $87,800 in standard five-seat configuration, with a third row of seats adding $2900. The EQB 350 4MATIC is priced at $106,700. Both models are on sale now.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (September 2022) 

26 September 2022