Mercedes-Benz EQB Review

Read Caroline’s Mercedes-Benz EQB review for everything you need to know about buying the brand’s new mid-size electric SUV in Ireland.

Mercedes-Benz is strengthening their ‘EQ’ range of electric cars and SUVs with the arrival of the new EQB.

Based on the Mercedes GLB that launched just a few years ago, the EQB is a charismatic, mid-size SUV with the added boon of offering two extra seats. That makes the EQB one of the few electric SUVs on sale with seven seats.

There are three versions of the EQB on sale now in Ireland, with the differences being between the number of driven wheels and the power output. But all versions use a 66.5kWh battery, with up to 435 kilometres of range (WLTP) possible on a full battery charge.

Pricing starts from €65,650 for the EQB250, from €68,675 for the EQB300 4Matic, and from €71,695 for the EQB350 4Matic.

In this review, we’re going to take a closer look at the new EQB and of course drive it!

What’s so special about the Mercedes-Benz EQB?

The Mercedes-Benz EQB carries all the class of the German brand packaged in a trendy SUV package. The EQB has a great stance with a boxy design and traditional SUV cues like cladding around the bumpers, sills and wheel arches, and roof rails that make it look like it’s ready for adventure.

At the front the EQB features the typical Mercedes-EQ black panel grille with central star. The continuous light strip at the front and rear looks impressive when lit up and is another design cue that links all the brand’s new EV models like the EQA and the EQE.

There are three trim levels – Progressive, Electric Art and AMG Line – which alter the appearance of the car somewhat with different trim elements and alloy wheel designs. But all versions get 18-inch alloy wheels that fill the arches nicely.

Behind the wheel, the upright windscreen and high seating position adds to the 4×4 charisma of this car. The secret is it’s electric and zero emissions, offering a silent and smooth drive that defies how we might think of an SUV.

The EQB’s interior is another strong point. It’s not just practical; it’s also got a gorgeous design and finish that makes it a compelling choice of premium compact SUV.

Inside the EQB

The EQB has a stunning interior with lots of good quality materials and glamourous ambient lighting and design features like the neat circular vents for the ventilation. Every EQB comes well equipped including lots of safety features, reversing camera, heated front seats, lumbar support and keyless go.

No one does compact premium interiors quite as good as Mercedes-Benz. The EQB is an expensive car but the quality and design of the interior certainly paints this car in good light. Leather upholstery comes as standard across the range.

The digital technology is some of the best we’ve seen in the segment and makes this car a pleasure to spend time in. Two 10-inch digital displays combine to give a slick widescreen effect and the MBUX infotainment system will respond to commands of ‘Hey Mercedes’. The graphics look modern and it’s all very easy to use.

The EQB shares its dimensions with the GLB and can accommodate seven people across three rows. Granted the EQB is at its best as a generously sized five seater with a big boot of over 465 litres. But the extra two seats are a great option for families. You can move the second row of seats forward to create a little more legroom in the third row. But it’s still pretty tight back there so really only suitable for children.

A powered tailgate comes as standard.

Driving the Mercedes EQB

The range kicks off with the EQB250. It’s front wheel drive only and offers 190hp. It is expected to be the most sought-after model in Ireland with pricing starting from €65,650 and a WLTP range of up to 426 kilometres.

The other two models in the range are four-wheel-drive. The EQB300 has 225hp, while the range-topping EQB350 has 288hp.

On test for Changing Lanes was the EQB300 4Matic. On the road the EQB impresses for its comfort and refinement, being one of the nicest electric SUVs to drive of its kind. It’s a smooth and serene driving experience behind the wheel of the EQB. It’s hardly sporty but there is plenty of power and grip, with the 0-100 km/h sprint done in 8 seconds should you feel like it.

Another impressive feature is the efficiency of the Mercedes-Benz EQB. Over a week of driving my average consumption was 19kWh per 100 kilometres, making it one of the most efficient electric SUVs I’ve tested in a while.

The EQB can charge at a maximum of 100kW, so you can get up to 80% charge in about 30 minutes at a high-power charging station. From a standard 7kW wallbox at home it will take about nine hours to charge to full. There’s also an 11kW AC on-board charger, which can get the battery to full in about six hours with the right charger.

Did you like it?

The Mercedes-Benz EQB is the latest of the brand’s electric EQ cars. It’s more charismatic and spacious than the Mercedes EQA, with more traditional SUV styling and an interior design that really makes the most of the EQB’s boxy dimensions.

It’s certainly significantly priced but that’s the price of zero emissions these days from a brand like Mercedes-Benz. There are plenty of other premium electric SUVs competing for the same market. But the EQB does shine for its elegance and refinement. It’s truly a fantastic cabin experience that stands out head and shoulders above the rest.

What’s more the EQB is well-equipped and genuinely efficient to run so you should see a good return on every battery charge.

Mercedes-Benz really has momentum now with a range of plug-in hybrids and full battery electric vehicles available spanning every segment of the market. The EQB is one of their best.

Model tested: Mercedes-Benz EQB300 4MATIC
Price: €68,675
Battery: 66.5kWh
Range: 431-435km (WLTP)
Power: 228hp
Torque: 390Nm
Top speed: 160km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 8 seconds
Motor Tax: €120 per year

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Written by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes