Mercedes-Benz EQB review: small SUV packs a punch

This city-friendly crossover is compact but surprisingly spacious inside, with enough grunt to make light work of overtaking on the freeway.

The EQB is part of an ever-expanding EV line-up from Mercedes-Benz. Picture: Supplied.

BENZ’S EQ RANGE IS GROWING FAST

Mercedes-Benz has quietly been putting together one of the broadest range of electric cars on sale in Australia.

The recently launched EQB SUV has joined the EQA and EQC electric SUVs and EQV van.

All three have had an electric motor and battery shoehorned into a vehicle designed to hold a petrol or diesel engine. This means they lose some of the interior functionality of electric-only vehicles such as a flat floor and more cabin space.

The electric EQB is based on the petrol-powered GLB. Picture: Supplied.

LOOKS ARE SUBJECTIVE

The EQB is the electrified version of the GLB SUV, which has never been the most attractively styled member of the Mercedes-Benz family.

It shares much of the same body parts as the conventional version but has some futuristic touches. Multi-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels look the goods as do the enclosed grille and LED lights that run the length of the front and rear.

The tall boxy shape helps it squeeze in a compact third row of seats that is best left to smaller teens and children.

The EQB 350 we tested only comes in a five-seat layout due to the addition of a rear motor.

The boxy profile allows for a third row of seats. Picture: Supplied.

BEAUTY IS ON THE INSIDE

Step inside the EQB and you are greeted by typical Mercedes-Benz class and panache.

An immaculately presented cabin has two 10.25-inch displays, one for the driver’s instruments and the other for the infotainment and other vehicle functions.

Sports seats with faux leather and contrast red stitching are in keeping with the vehicle’s sustainable image. The front pair are heated and electronically adjustable.

Ambient lighting with 64 colours gives off nightclub vibes during the evening.

The EQB 350 has an AMG styling pack and adds desirable items such as a huge panoramic sunroof, alloy pedals and a sporty flat-bottomed steering wheel.

There is plenty of room up front and ample space in the second pew but a higher floor means taller adults may feel a little cramped.

The interior has a classy, hi-tech feel. Picture: Supplied.

IT’S BUILT FOR COMFORT

The EQB 350 uses two electric motors – one on each axle providing all-wheel drive – that combine for 215kW and 520Nm. Despite the impressive outputs the EQB is brisk rather than express, hitting the 100km/h mark from a standstill in 6.2 seconds.

The EQB 350 weighs more than 2150kg but well sorted suspension does an excellent job of keeping its bulk in check.

The ride is on the softer side, making for a cosy and comfortable commute around town, but the EQB can float and take a while to recover after hitting larger divots at speed on the open road.

As with the GLB there is some lean through corners thanks to its tall body but it’s an admirable highway cruiser, covering longer stretches at speed with ease.

The electric motors always feel like they have more to give when overtaking.

The small SUV is a comfortable highway cruiser. Picture: Supplied.

THERE IS A PREMIUM PRICE TAG

In the past year the price of cars, especially electric ones, have risen sharply.

The EQB 250 starts at about $92,500 drive-away and the 350 version jumps to about $115,000.

Both versions come with a 66.5kWh battery that provides a driving range of up to 507km in the 250 and 445km in the more potent 350.

They both accept a max charge rate of 100kW via a fast charger, which should replenish the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in about 30 minutes.

Mercedes-Benz covers the vehicle with a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and the battery is guaranteed for 8 years/160,000km.

Originally published as Mercedes-Benz EQB review: small SUV packs a punch