Mercedes NZ introduce EQB electric SUV

Following in the footsteps of the smaller Mercedes-Benz EQA, the newly introduced EQB adds space and can carry up to seven people while retaining its emissions free compact SUV status.

The fully electric EQB builds on the petrol powered GLB and arrives locally in two different models, the EQB 250 and EQB 350 4Matic.

Space is the name of the game for the compact SUV as 1710 litres of storage space is available with the all seat rows folded down, while 495 litres is available with the second seating row in use. 

The EQB 250 fitted with optional third row seating brings storage to a total of 1610 litres, 465 litres with the second row in use and 110 litres with all rows in use.

Powering the SUV is a specifically developed drivetrain for the Mercedes-EQ compact SUV range that makes use of an underfloor mounted 66.5kWh lithium ion battery weighing in at 469kg.

Charging speeds of up to 11kW of output can be achieved via an alternating current (AC) system or up to 100kW using direct current (DC) charging.

EQB 250

Kicking off the range is the EQB 250 variant which uses a single 140kW and 385Nm electric motor that powers the front wheels, achieving a claimed range of 371km.

Two 10.25-inch displays are onboard, one being a customisable instrument panel and the other the central screen entertainment system.

Five seats come as standard while an optional third row provides seating for seven occupants.

Adjustable and heated front seats, a wireless device charging pad, dual-zone climate control, smartphone integration, ambient lighting and more also come standard.

Mercedes’ Driver Assistance Package featuring active cruise control, speed limit assist, steering assist, brake assist, lane keeping assist and blind spot assist add to the EQB 250’s driving experience.

A parking assistant, electric tailgate and keyless entry also adjoin the SUV’s tech fit out.

On the outside, the EQB 250 features adjustable damping with a multi-link rear, LED headlights, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, and chrome and aluminium trim elements. An LED band across the front of the bonnet and 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke wheels complete the model’s appearance.

Pricing starts at $99,900 including GST and on-road costs in the standard five seat configuration, with the third row of seating adding $2900.

EQB 350 4Matic

For those looking for a bit more power, the EQB 350 4Matic makes use of dual electric motors to give it 215kW and 520Nm of all wheel drive power. From a standstill, 100km/h can be achieved in 6.2 seconds.

The extra motor means range drops slightly to 360km.

While only available with five seats, the EQB 350 4Matic does however provide “sportier” interior features like sports seats, a sports steering wheel clad in Nappa leather, backlit trim elements, AMG floor mats and illuminated door sills.

Exterior features include an electronically controlled panoramic glass sunroof, AMG body styling including more chrome pieces, a rear diffuser, and 20-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels.

Pricing for the EQB 350 4Matic starts at $109,900 including GST and on-road costs.

Both models are now available for purchase and can be optioned with the Edition 1 package which adds more AMG-inspired exterior body elements and EQ-specific interior elements. If optioned, the Edition 1 package will add $9100 to the EQB 250’s price and $3900 to the EQB 350 4Matic.