*Model Shown is for illustration purposes only.
Vehicle Information
Mercedes delivers us the market's first mid-sized seven-seat EV. Jonathan Crouch drives the EQB.
It's very difficult to package a mid-sized EV so effectively that up to seven people can sit inside it. But Mercedes has pulled off that feat with this car, the EQB, which usefully broadens its electric vehicle line-up. It's based of course on the combustion-engined GLB crossover and shares much of that car's premium appeal.
There's a flood of mid-size Crossover electric vehicles out there at present. So any fresh class entrant had better have something fairly unique to offer. Fortunately, this one does: the Mercedes EQB. It's one of what seems like a continual stream of different Mercedes EQ electric models, with the 'B' in this case standing not for the brand's mini-MPV but designating instead something you may already have guessed from a quick glance at this car: the fact that this is the full-battery version of the Stuttgart maker's GLB mid-sized SUV. Engineering and technology-wise, this car shares everything that matters with its smaller EQA hatch stablemate - including a slightly compromised MFA2 chassis not originally designed for EV use. This model hails from quite a different production facility though. Instead of Rastatt in Germany, it's screwed together at Kecskemet in Hungary, where the GLB is built. A change from the original plan, which would have seen the EQB produced in Daimler's French Hambach plant alongside little smart cars. Regardless of provenance though, what we've got here looks as if it might be a smart choice for a forward-thinking family.
The EQB sprints away from rest pretty quickly, despite tipping the scales at around 2.2-tonnes, a legacy of the fact that Mercedes makes this model run on an MFA2 platform originally designed for combustion models. That being the case, you might have expected the brand to have countered that extra bulk by fitting a more powerful propulsion system but if anything, the opposite is true here. From launch, this EQB was only available in twin motor '4MATIC' AWD form and if you cast a glance around the segment, you'll find that most rivals believe around 300hp is necessary to properly propel a 4WD EV in this class. Well to approach that with this Mercedes, you've to stretch to the rather pricey top '350' version we tried, which offers 292hp. The EQB 300 model that more customers are likely to choose has only 228hp. This model's close relative, the EQA, sells best in front-driven 190hp '250' form but from the launch of the EQB, the brand wouldn't tell us whether this car would also be offered with that more affordable powerplant. Still, you won't be choosing an EQB as an autobahn burner - and if you did, the 'burning' in question would primarily be through this model's rather restricted driving range, WLTP-rated for these two 4MATIC variants at a best of 253 miles - in a class where better versions of comparably priced rivals regularly deliver figures well over the 300 mile mark. Mercedes says it's developed an EQB variant capable of a 500km (310 mile) range, but that will only match (and in some cases still not equal) the current class standard. Whatever variant of this model you choose, you'll find it easy to drive and particularly in its element around town, where you'll appreciate the light steering; and the compact 11.4-metre turning circle you might need for getting into those tight charging bays.
You'd certainly pick up this car's similarity to its GLB counterpart if you happened to know the Mercedes product range. As with the EQA, the EQB delivers a subtle reworking of the combustion engined car it's based on. Which means a boxy profile embellished here with a more aerodynamic front end featuring the usual Mercedes EQ-specific closed-off grille and headlight signature. In the same way, the tailgate gets a full width LED tail light bar, as with other EQ models. Inside, it's also much as you'll find in a GLB, apart from a few trimming changes and the addition of specific 'EQ' electric vehicle menu for the centre screen, which is 10.25-inches in size, like the adjacent instrument binnacle display. There's comfortable space for a couple of adults on the back seat - and room for three at a squash. The key difference with an EQB though, is its relatively lengthy 2,829mm wheelbase, which allows it to offer an optional third row of seats, though Mercedes warns that these are only really suitable for children. Fold those seats down and you'll get 465-litres of boot space. If you opt not to have them, that rises to 495-litres of carriage capacity. Think in terms of about 75-litres less than you'd get in a GLB.
OK: what'll you pay for this seven seat, family-sized all-electric battery-powered Mercedes-Benz? Because this car bears the Three Pointed Star, you won't be expecting it to be inexpensive: it isn't. The brand only offers the two 4MATIC AWD versions of this car, which start with the EQB 300 at just under £55,500 and culminates with the EQB 350 variant we tried, priced from just under £57,000. There's a choice of three mainstream trim levels, 'AMG Line', 'AMG Line Premium' or 'AMG Line Premium Plus' spec. If Mercedes decides to import the front-driven single motor 190hp EQB 250 model you can choose on the Continent, the entry price for this model line will be lower but realistically, you're still going to need a budget of around £50,000. Something else the brand offers on the Continent is a five-seat-only EQB, but for the UK market, you have to have three seating rows in this car. So, premium pricing - but then you probably expected that. At least you get plenty of kit for that, including the ritziest version of the brand's Widescreen MBUX infotainment set-up, with twin 10.25-inch displays for the central screen and the instrument cluster, both of which feature EQ branding and special graphics. Top models get niceties like an electrically-operated panoramic glass sunroof, a Keyless-Go Comfort package, an augmented reality navigation system, an advanced sound system and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
The elephant in the room here is driving range, so let's get straight to it. For either of the 4MATIC variants currently offered, the EQB 300 and the EQB 350, Mercedes is quoting a range figure between 242 and 253 miles. A figure which wouldn't be much improved if the brand were to decide to also import the front-driven EQB 250 variant - at least if our recent test of the similar EQA 250 model is any guide. To give you some perspective on that, even a little Renault ZOE supermini is rated at 238 miles between charges. For AWD versions of mid-sized Crossover EVs like this EQB, the current class benchmark is somewhere just over the 300 mile mark and the seven-seat version of Tesla's Model Y 'Long Range' (which when it finally makes our market in 7-seat form will be this car's closest rival) manages 331 miles. Whichever EQB variant you select, you're going to need to make pretty proactive use of the brake regenerative settings to what is possible. The 100 kW DC on-board charger allows the car to charge the 66.5kWh battery from 10 to 80 per cent in around 40 minutes, and from 10 to 100 per cent in five hours and 45 minutes using an 11kW wall box. Navigation with Electric Intelligence - included as standard - calculates the route that will get the driver to their destination fastest, taking into account charging times, and taking the stress out of route planning. A three-year subscription to the Mercedes me Charge public charging service is also included. With Mercedes me Charge, customers have access to what is currently the world's biggest charging network: this currently comprises more than 450,000 AC and DC charging points across 3 countries. Mercedes me Charge allows customers convenient use of the charging stations of various providers, even when travelling abroad. By registering just once, they can benefit from an integrated payment function with a simple billing process. Mercedes me Charge enables customers to charge at more than 175,000 public charging points throughout Europe; Mercedes-Benz ensures a subsequent offset with green power.
We feel much more convinced by this EQB then we did by its EQA stablemate. Mainly because this more versatile design has a unique selling point denied not only to the EQA but to most other mid-sized EVs out there: seven seats. So larger families who lack a lottery win and don't want a converted van can now join the electric vehicle revolution. What'll they find here? The usual eye-catching Mercedes front-of-cabin experience, classy screen technology and the rather smug sense of self satisfaction that comes in having a car with the Three Pointed Star on your driveway. On top of that, the brake regeneration system is excellent. All of which means that right here, right now, this is the best affordable EV Mercedes makes. And that makes it a difficult car to ignore.
Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty:70
Battery Capacity in kWh:70.5
Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins):645
Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change:10-100
Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW:7.4
Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Charge Time (Mins):435
Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Percentage Change:10-100
Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Power Supply - kW:11
Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Charge Time (Mins):32
Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Percentage Change:10-80
Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Power Supply - kW:100
Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Charge Time (Mins):Not Available
Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Percentage Change:Not Available
Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Power Supply - kW:Not Available
Battery Leased:No
Battery Type:Lithium-ion
Charging Port Location:Right Side Rear
Coupler/Connector Type:CCS Type 2
Maximum Charging Rate - kW:100
Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage:155000
Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years:10
Usable Battery Capacity:70.5
WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb:15.8
WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb - TEH:15.8
WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb - TEL:15.8
WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb:3.9
WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb - TEH:3.9
WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb - TEL:3.9
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb:517
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb - TEH:516
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb - TEL:517
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb:321
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb - TEH:321
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb - TEL:321
CO:Not Available
CO2 (g/km):Data Not Available
HC:Not Available
HC+NOx:Not Available
Noise Level dB(A):Not Available
NOx:Not Available
Particles:Not Available
Standard Euro Emissions:Not Available
Camshaft:Not Available
Catalytic Convertor:Not Available
CC:1
Compression Ratio:Not Available
Cylinder Layout:Not Available
Cylinders:Not Available
Cylinders - Bore (mm):Not Available
Cylinders - Stroke (mm):Not Available
Engine Code:Not Available
Engine Layout:Not Available
Fuel Delivery:Not Available
Gears:1 SPEED
Number of Valves:Not Available
Transmission:AUTO
EC Combined (mpg):Not Available
EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies:Not Available
EC Extra Urban (mpg):Not Available
EC Urban (mpg):Not Available
Alternative Fuel Qualifying:Yes
Badge Engine CC:0.0
Badge Power:190
Based On ID:Not Available
Coin Description:140kW 70.5kWh
Coin Series:Sport Executive
Generation Mark:1
Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07:43E
Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years:6
Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years:2
NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %:95
NCAP Child Occupant Protection %:91
NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09:5
NCAP Pedestrian Protection %:78
NCAP Safety Assist %:74
Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?:No
Service Interval Frequency - Months:12
Service Interval Mileage:15500
Special Edition:No
Special Order:No
Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage:Unlimited
Standard manufacturers warranty - Years:3
Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months:Not Available
Timing Belt Interval Mileage:Not Available
Vehicle Homologation Class:M1
0 to 62 mph (secs):8.9
Engine Power - BHP:190
Engine Power - KW:140
Engine Power - RPM:3550
Engine Torque - LBS.FT:284
Engine Torque - MKG:39.3
Engine Torque - NM:385
Top Speed:99
Emissions Test Cycle:WLTP
RDE Certification Level:N/A
Alloys?:Yes
Space Saver?:No
Tyre Size Front:235/55 R18
Tyre Size Rear:235/55 R18
Tyre Size Spare:TYRE REPAIR KIT
Wheel Style:MULTI SPOKE
Wheel Type:18" ALLOY
Height:Not Available
Height (including roof rails):1654
Length:4684
Wheelbase:2829
Width:1834
Width (including mirrors):2020
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres):Not Available
Gross Vehicle Weight:2540
Luggage Capacity (Seats Down):1710
Luggage Capacity (Seats Up):495
Max. Loading Weight:435
Max. Roof Load:75
Max. Towing Weight - Braked:1400
Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked:750
Minimum Kerbweight:2105
No. of Seats:7
Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb:11.7
Mercedes delivers us the market's first mid-sized seven-seat EV. Jonathan Crouch drives the EQB.
It's very difficult to package a mid-sized EV so effectively that up to seven people can sit inside it. But Mercedes has pulled off that feat with this car, the EQB, which usefully broadens its electric vehicle line-up. It's based of course on the combustion-engined GLB crossover and shares much of that car's premium appeal.
There's a flood of mid-size Crossover electric vehicles out there at present. So any fresh class entrant had better have something fairly unique to offer. Fortunately, this one does: the Mercedes EQB. It's one of what seems like a continual stream of different Mercedes EQ electric models, with the 'B' in this case standing not for the brand's mini-MPV but designating instead something you may already have guessed from a quick glance at this car: the fact that this is the full-battery version of the Stuttgart maker's GLB mid-sized SUV. Engineering and technology-wise, this car shares everything that matters with its smaller EQA hatch stablemate - including a slightly compromised MFA2 chassis not originally designed for EV use. This model hails from quite a different production facility though. Instead of Rastatt in Germany, it's screwed together at Kecskemet in Hungary, where the GLB is built. A change from the original plan, which would have seen the EQB produced in Daimler's French Hambach plant alongside little smart cars. Regardless of provenance though, what we've got here looks as if it might be a smart choice for a forward-thinking family.
The EQB sprints away from rest pretty quickly, despite tipping the scales at around 2.2-tonnes, a legacy of the fact that Mercedes makes this model run on an MFA2 platform originally designed for combustion models. That being the case, you might have expected the brand to have countered that extra bulk by fitting a more powerful propulsion system but if anything, the opposite is true here. From launch, this EQB was only available in twin motor '4MATIC' AWD form and if you cast a glance around the segment, you'll find that most rivals believe around 300hp is necessary to properly propel a 4WD EV in this class. Well to approach that with this Mercedes, you've to stretch to the rather pricey top '350' version we tried, which offers 292hp. The EQB 300 model that more customers are likely to choose has only 228hp. This model's close relative, the EQA, sells best in front-driven 190hp '250' form but from the launch of the EQB, the brand wouldn't tell us whether this car would also be offered with that more affordable powerplant. Still, you won't be choosing an EQB as an autobahn burner - and if you did, the 'burning' in question would primarily be through this model's rather restricted driving range, WLTP-rated for these two 4MATIC variants at a best of 253 miles - in a class where better versions of comparably priced rivals regularly deliver figures well over the 300 mile mark. Mercedes says it's developed an EQB variant capable of a 500km (310 mile) range, but that will only match (and in some cases still not equal) the current class standard. Whatever variant of this model you choose, you'll find it easy to drive and particularly in its element around town, where you'll appreciate the light steering; and the compact 11.4-metre turning circle you might need for getting into those tight charging bays.
You'd certainly pick up this car's similarity to its GLB counterpart if you happened to know the Mercedes product range. As with the EQA, the EQB delivers a subtle reworking of the combustion engined car it's based on. Which means a boxy profile embellished here with a more aerodynamic front end featuring the usual Mercedes EQ-specific closed-off grille and headlight signature. In the same way, the tailgate gets a full width LED tail light bar, as with other EQ models. Inside, it's also much as you'll find in a GLB, apart from a few trimming changes and the addition of specific 'EQ' electric vehicle menu for the centre screen, which is 10.25-inches in size, like the adjacent instrument binnacle display. There's comfortable space for a couple of adults on the back seat - and room for three at a squash. The key difference with an EQB though, is its relatively lengthy 2,829mm wheelbase, which allows it to offer an optional third row of seats, though Mercedes warns that these are only really suitable for children. Fold those seats down and you'll get 465-litres of boot space. If you opt not to have them, that rises to 495-litres of carriage capacity. Think in terms of about 75-litres less than you'd get in a GLB.
OK: what'll you pay for this seven seat, family-sized all-electric battery-powered Mercedes-Benz? Because this car bears the Three Pointed Star, you won't be expecting it to be inexpensive: it isn't. The brand only offers the two 4MATIC AWD versions of this car, which start with the EQB 300 at just under £55,500 and culminates with the EQB 350 variant we tried, priced from just under £57,000. There's a choice of three mainstream trim levels, 'AMG Line', 'AMG Line Premium' or 'AMG Line Premium Plus' spec. If Mercedes decides to import the front-driven single motor 190hp EQB 250 model you can choose on the Continent, the entry price for this model line will be lower but realistically, you're still going to need a budget of around £50,000. Something else the brand offers on the Continent is a five-seat-only EQB, but for the UK market, you have to have three seating rows in this car. So, premium pricing - but then you probably expected that. At least you get plenty of kit for that, including the ritziest version of the brand's Widescreen MBUX infotainment set-up, with twin 10.25-inch displays for the central screen and the instrument cluster, both of which feature EQ branding and special graphics. Top models get niceties like an electrically-operated panoramic glass sunroof, a Keyless-Go Comfort package, an augmented reality navigation system, an advanced sound system and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
The elephant in the room here is driving range, so let's get straight to it. For either of the 4MATIC variants currently offered, the EQB 300 and the EQB 350, Mercedes is quoting a range figure between 242 and 253 miles. A figure which wouldn't be much improved if the brand were to decide to also import the front-driven EQB 250 variant - at least if our recent test of the similar EQA 250 model is any guide. To give you some perspective on that, even a little Renault ZOE supermini is rated at 238 miles between charges. For AWD versions of mid-sized Crossover EVs like this EQB, the current class benchmark is somewhere just over the 300 mile mark and the seven-seat version of Tesla's Model Y 'Long Range' (which when it finally makes our market in 7-seat form will be this car's closest rival) manages 331 miles. Whichever EQB variant you select, you're going to need to make pretty proactive use of the brake regenerative settings to what is possible. The 100 kW DC on-board charger allows the car to charge the 66.5kWh battery from 10 to 80 per cent in around 40 minutes, and from 10 to 100 per cent in five hours and 45 minutes using an 11kW wall box. Navigation with Electric Intelligence - included as standard - calculates the route that will get the driver to their destination fastest, taking into account charging times, and taking the stress out of route planning. A three-year subscription to the Mercedes me Charge public charging service is also included. With Mercedes me Charge, customers have access to what is currently the world's biggest charging network: this currently comprises more than 450,000 AC and DC charging points across 3 countries. Mercedes me Charge allows customers convenient use of the charging stations of various providers, even when travelling abroad. By registering just once, they can benefit from an integrated payment function with a simple billing process. Mercedes me Charge enables customers to charge at more than 175,000 public charging points throughout Europe; Mercedes-Benz ensures a subsequent offset with green power.
We feel much more convinced by this EQB then we did by its EQA stablemate. Mainly because this more versatile design has a unique selling point denied not only to the EQA but to most other mid-sized EVs out there: seven seats. So larger families who lack a lottery win and don't want a converted van can now join the electric vehicle revolution. What'll they find here? The usual eye-catching Mercedes front-of-cabin experience, classy screen technology and the rather smug sense of self satisfaction that comes in having a car with the Three Pointed Star on your driveway. On top of that, the brake regeneration system is excellent. All of which means that right here, right now, this is the best affordable EV Mercedes makes. And that makes it a difficult car to ignore.
Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty:70
Battery Capacity in kWh:70.5
Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins):645
Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change:10-100
Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW:7.4
Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Charge Time (Mins):435
Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Percentage Change:10-100
Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Power Supply - kW:11
Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Charge Time (Mins):32
Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Percentage Change:10-80
Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Power Supply - kW:100
Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Charge Time (Mins):Not Available
Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Percentage Change:Not Available
Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Power Supply - kW:Not Available
Battery Leased:No
Battery Type:Lithium-ion
Charging Port Location:Right Side Rear
Coupler/Connector Type:CCS Type 2
Maximum Charging Rate - kW:100
Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage:155000
Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years:10
Usable Battery Capacity:70.5
WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb:15.8
WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb - TEH:15.8
WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb - TEL:15.8
WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb:3.9
WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb - TEH:3.9
WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb - TEL:3.9
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb:517
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb - TEH:516
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb - TEL:517
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb:321
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb - TEH:321
WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb - TEL:321
CO:Not Available
CO2 (g/km):Data Not Available
HC:Not Available
HC+NOx:Not Available
Noise Level dB(A):Not Available
NOx:Not Available
Particles:Not Available
Standard Euro Emissions:Not Available
Camshaft:Not Available
Catalytic Convertor:Not Available
CC:1
Compression Ratio:Not Available
Cylinder Layout:Not Available
Cylinders:Not Available
Cylinders - Bore (mm):Not Available
Cylinders - Stroke (mm):Not Available
Engine Code:Not Available
Engine Layout:Not Available
Fuel Delivery:Not Available
Gears:1 SPEED
Number of Valves:Not Available
Transmission:AUTO
EC Combined (mpg):Not Available
EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies:Not Available
EC Extra Urban (mpg):Not Available
EC Urban (mpg):Not Available
Alternative Fuel Qualifying:Yes
Badge Engine CC:0.0
Badge Power:190
Based On ID:Not Available
Coin Description:140kW 70.5kWh
Coin Series:Sport Executive
Generation Mark:1
Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07:43E
Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years:6
Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years:2
NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %:95
NCAP Child Occupant Protection %:91
NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09:5
NCAP Pedestrian Protection %:78
NCAP Safety Assist %:74
Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?:No
Service Interval Frequency - Months:12
Service Interval Mileage:15500
Special Edition:No
Special Order:No
Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage:Unlimited
Standard manufacturers warranty - Years:3
Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months:Not Available
Timing Belt Interval Mileage:Not Available
Vehicle Homologation Class:M1
0 to 62 mph (secs):8.9
Engine Power - BHP:190
Engine Power - KW:140
Engine Power - RPM:3550
Engine Torque - LBS.FT:284
Engine Torque - MKG:39.3
Engine Torque - NM:385
Top Speed:99
Emissions Test Cycle:WLTP
RDE Certification Level:N/A
Alloys?:Yes
Space Saver?:No
Tyre Size Front:235/55 R18
Tyre Size Rear:235/55 R18
Tyre Size Spare:TYRE REPAIR KIT
Wheel Style:MULTI SPOKE
Wheel Type:18" ALLOY
Height:Not Available
Height (including roof rails):1654
Length:4684
Wheelbase:2829
Width:1834
Width (including mirrors):2020
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres):Not Available
Gross Vehicle Weight:2540
Luggage Capacity (Seats Down):1710
Luggage Capacity (Seats Up):495
Max. Loading Weight:435
Max. Roof Load:75
Max. Towing Weight - Braked:1400
Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked:750
Minimum Kerbweight:2105
No. of Seats:7
Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb:11.7
EQB 250+ 140kW Sport Executive 70.5kWh 5dr Auto
