Mercedes-Benz EQB (2022) Launch Review
Mercedes-Benz South Africa has launched a flurry of electric vehicles late in the year and we’ve had a quick drive in the new EQB. Here’s what we thought of it…
It has been a challenging year for many automotive brands and Mercedes-Benz has been one of the marques severely affected by stock shortages. Remember that while Mercedes-Benz SA continues to produce the entire C-Class sedan range at its East London plant, every other model is imported.
Owing to production disruptions (caused by shortages of components such as semiconductors and wiring looms), cars have not been coming off the line quickly enough to satisfy demand, plus there have been shipping delays. Again, this is not just a Mercedes-Benz problem; many brands have suffered shortages and delays. Most recently, logistical issues hampered the local launch of the VW Golf 8 R.
Benz’s all-electric EQ range is broad; while some models are based on ICE-model platforms, some of the newer additions to the line-up are based on the brand’s dedicated MEA electric-vehicle architecture.
So if you want something fresh, luxurious and different, you are likely to find what you’re looking for within the EQ range. Kicking off the range is the EQA, essentially an electrified GLA and, if you desire a bit more space and poke, there’s the EQB (modelled on the GLB). There’s an EQC, which you guessed it, is an electrified (previous-gen) GLC. For those shopping for a sedan, Benz offers the EQE and EQS.
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What’s on offer?
Mercedes-Benz SA offers its EQB with one powertrain and 3 trim levels. Many brands have opted to endow their EV models with bold – but polarising – styling, but even though the EQB has some futuristic cues (enough to distinguish it from its ICE sibling), its appearance is altogether conventional. It’s a tricky game to play, just ask BMW with its iX. It’s brilliant, but those quirky looks aren’t to everyone’s taste.
With the EQB, you actually need to tell people that it’s an EV. If you look closely, however, you can spot some subtle clues that it is an all-electric model, such as the Mercedes-EQ black panel grille, continuous light strips at the front and rear of the vehicle, aerodynamically optimised light-alloy wheels (in a bi- or tri-colour design, up to 20 inches in size), as well as specifically adapted front and rear wheel spoilers.
There are two motors on duty (one on each axle) and they deliver peak outputs of 215 kW and 520 Nm of torque. Power is directed to all four wheels via an automatic transmission.
As for the performance claims for the EQB, 0-100 kph is said to be dispatched in a brisk 6.2 seconds and its stated top speed is 160 kph. It’s not the lightest car around (with a kerb weight of just over 2000 kg), but then again, neither are its rivals, with most of the additional portliness coming from the battery pack.
The battery is rated at 66.5 kWh and the claimed range (from 100% charged) is between 395 and 423 km. Mercedes-Benz SA’s website has a nifty range simulator that allows you to input your driving style, road conditions and weather conditions to calculate the distance you could achieve on a single charge.
At this price point, the EQB’s standard equipment list is expectedly generous, but you can play around with the configurator to your heart’s content (or until your bank balance or -manager cries “enough!”).
Plenty of optional packages are available for the EQB, along with various individual options such as a panoramic sliding sunroof (R16 400) and adjustable damping (R17 600). Should you wish to specify that 3rd row (of two seats) to turn your EQB into a 7-seater, be prepared to part with an additional R22 000.
What’s it like to drive?
Our short test route was comparable to (what we’d imagine is) a commuter’s average route; it comprised stints of freeway driving and trundling along congested urban roads. The EQB’s ride quality was pliant, despite being fitted with large (20-inch) wheels, but we suspect this was due to the roads being well-maintained. We’d like to drive the EQB on a variety of road surfaces to see how forgiving its suspension really is.
Like the vast majority of electric cars, the EQB operates in near silence. In EVs, there’s nowhere to hide unpleasant sounds because there is no ICE to mask excessive wind or road noise. We’re happy to report that, at 100 kph, we discerned only a gentle wind sound emanating from the side mirrors. Some artificial powertrain noise is plumbed into the cabin, but we understand it can be switched off if it gets annoying.
The electric motors deliver maximum torque right from the get-go and thanks to all-wheel drive, the EQB launches off the line with impressive urgency. The torque delivery is instantaneous, and you don’t even need to fully depress the accelerator pedal to exact urgent performance from the powertrain.
Besides, in the interests of maximising your range, you shouldn’t be stomping on the long pedal too often in any case; rather rely on momentum and brake regeneration to eke out those extra kilometres.
Summary
Our test drive was short and sweet, which is also an apt description of the EQB, come to think of it. Yes, its design is boxy, but taller passengers will be thankful for the excellent headroom and exterior visibility. With a realistic range of well in excess of 300 km and ground clearance of 165 mm, the EQB should be well suited to dirt-road journeys, with the added bonus of a large load bay, plus the option of a 3rd row.
Many may wonder why the EQB exists when there is EQA. Yes, the EQB is a touch more expensive in comparison to its smaller sibling, but the benefits are notable. You get more space, more performance (215 kW/520 Nm versus 140 kW/385 Nm) and the sure-footedness of all-wheel drive.
Now for the kicker. With prices starting above R1.3 million, the EQB isn’t exactly ‘cheap’ or ‘affordable’, by compact SUV standards anyway. As things stand, all-electric motoring remains the preserve of the wealthy, not least those who can afford the extra cost of installing solar panels and home chargers.
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