In essence, the EQB is an electric version of the GLB. It receives Mercedes-Benz electrification treatment, so it should be familiar to drivers of the internal combustion versions. It’s also one of the few EVs in this class with a third-row seat.
Being a Mercedes-Benz product, it is also appropriately luxurious both inside and out. There is an argument to be made that it’s a perfect avenue for enthusiasts of the German marque to make the switch to electric, but being a Mercedes-Benz doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its flaws, either.
Mercedes-Benz
Reason to love it #1: The interior is beautiful
Despite being at the lower end of the Mercedes-Benz EV fleet, the EQB has a lovely interior with top-notch controls and seating surfaces. Even the Mercedes-Benz-leatherette “MB-Tex” looks and feels very nice. Bonus points go to the unique turbine-design vents.
The infotainment system is powered by two 10.25-inch screens, with an additional small touch screen between them. Honestly, I’m glad it’s not the massive “Hyperscreen,” which consumes the entire dashboard, as this one looks less glossy, and I find it easier to work with.
Mercedes-Benz
Reason to love it #2: Best looking of the EQ SUVs
For many of us (yours truly included), the design of the EQ sedans and SUVs looks like melted wax. That’s on purpose, though, since they are supposed to be fluid in shape to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Fortunately, the EQB SUV is shaped a lot like its internal combustion sibling, which was already fairly attractive. I suppose it’s less “in your face” about the EV language the automaker adopted, but that’s a good thing.
Mercedes-Benz
Reason to love it #3: A joy to drive
Despite being connected to a comparatively small 70.5 kWh battery, all three powertrains provide good performance. The front-wheel drive EQB250+ has a 188-hp electric motor that makes 284 lb-ft of torque. The EQB300 has all-wheel drive, and that added rear motor nets a total of 225 hp and an increased 288 lb-ft of torque. Finally, there’s the EQB350, which makes 288 hp and a massive 383 lb-ft of torque.
Even the front-drive torque numbers are good, and it helps with great launches. In traffic, the handling, ride, and braking are top-notch for the class. Sure, there’s no steering feel, but the handling is true, and the EQB is very maneuverable despite not having 4-wheel steering like other EQ-series vehicles.
Additionally, the MacPherson strut/wishbone front suspension and Multilink rear suspension are excellently tuned. While some may find them a bit stiff, they truly embody the tight feel characteristic of a Mercedes-Benz.
Mercedes-Benz
Reason to love it #4: There’s good utility
Sure, 25.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row isn’t ground-breaking, but having approximately 61.8 cu-ft of maximum cargo space with all rows folded is great. It’s one of the better numbers in this class, and it means that this fairly small SUV can hold a lot.
Did I mention that you can opt for a third-row seat? It’s suitable for smaller people, like children and people under 5’3″. It can be ordered as an option, but it will limit some of your cargo space.
Mercedes-Benz
Reason to think twice #1: Some less expensive options are better
It will cost you $53,050 for the 250+ and $57,200 for the 300. If you want power and fun, you need to lay down $60,850 for the 350. Oh, and remember that this is Mercedes-Benz we’re talking about, so options are very pricey. I outfitted a 250+ with the AMG Line package and Exclusive trim, and my bottom line was hovering near $60,000…for the base model.
The KIA EV9 is a fine example of a three-row electric SUV that gives you far more for the money. The EQB feels like it’s lacking in a few ways against the competition, especially two-row electric SUVs. Volvo, Cadillac, Audi, and Genesis build comparable two-row electric SUVs with better range and faster charging.
Mercedes-Benz
Reason to think twice #2: Those numbers are out-of-touch
The 100 kW charge rate should have stayed in 2023. There are vehicles that can charge up to 350 kW for less dough, and the range numbers also feel a bit behind. The FWD EQB 250+ has a maximum 251-mile range, and that’s as good as it gets. The AWD EWB 300 4MATIC has a 205-mile range, and the speedy 350 4MATIC gets just 207 miles of range.
Mercedes-Benz
Final thoughts
I know that Mercedes-Benz is on course to introduce new electric powertrains that will make it competitive again. Unfortunately, it’s currently lagging behind some of the competition. The EQB SUV is a solid, enjoyable vehicle to drive, and it has some utility, but it already feels a bit old.
Still, there is something to be said about the refinement, comfort, and snoot value of driving a car with a three-pointed star. It’s not the worst choice in its segment; we’re just hoping it will get even better.
About the author
Nathan Adlen
Contributing Writer, Autoblog