Believe it or not, the EQB 250+ sits in a league of its own.

No, seriously. At its price point in the local market, which other premium electric SUV can one find with this level of headroom and legroom? One would need to spend another $20-grand to step up to the next larger electric SUV, the BMW iX3.

The EQB is the electric version of the GLB. Where the latter has proven quite popular and successful in Singapore, does the EQB have what it takes to do the same in the electric vehicle (EV) segment in which it resides?

First Impressions

From head-on, the EQB is differentiated from the GLB by the solid front grille, more smoothed-out headlights and a front bumper with fewer openings for more aerodynamic efficiency.

Black plastic trim clads the lower perimeter of the bodywork and would contrast nicely with lighter paint colours.

19-inch rims wear MO-mark 235/50 R19 Bridgestone Turanza T005 rubber, and for the most part, they remain quiet and comfortable on the move, only protesting if one tries to hustle the EQB around tighter corners.

Viewed from the side, this is unmistakably a Good Likeable Bread-van. That it sits as tall as it does bode well for its occupants, but more on that later. You won’t lose your EQB in a large, sprawling carpark, that’s for sure.

Roof rails mean that up to 75kg of outdoorsy items can be strapped down up there.

The rear end combines a large and rather flat tailgate with nicely rounded corners for a cohesive-looking rump. A lightbar stretches from one end to the other and lets others know that this SUV is powered by the zappy-zappy stuff.

What Is Within

Don’t be surprised when that tailgate electrically swings open and you find two extra seats in the rear of the EQB.

Although this is a five-seater for most intents and purposes, that last row of seats can be deployed if a pair of very young children need to also be transported in a pinch, for a grand total of seven occupants. The two young’uns would have their own pair of cupholders too.

In standard configuration, 565 litres of luggage space is available, which is plenty. Drop the 2nd row of seats, and the EQB literally turns into a minivan with 1,800 litres of cargo capacity.

Headroom and legroom in the rear are good. The seats themselves can be slid forward to liberate more boot space, while the seatbacks can be reclined for added comfort on longer journeys.

A couple of aircon vents keep the rear occupants nice and cool.

Adjusting the driver’s and front passenger’s seats is a doddle, thanks to the seat controls being mounted on the respective doors with two memory settings each. Why more manufacturers don’t do this is a mystery, for it is supremely ergonomic.

The multifunction sports steering wheel itself is nicely sized and adjustable for reach and rake, but the swipey-swipey optical trackpads a la Blackberry Bold on the spokes are best used only when necessary, because it’s more intuitive to use the media controls on the infotainment’s touchscreen instead.

The instrument screen measures 10.25 inches across and can be configured to display dials in a few different ways. Readability on the move is spot on, and a pleasure to use.

The infotainment system also features a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available. Other functions can be accessed via the MBUX built-in settings and apps.

The standard audio system played nice and loud without becoming tiring on the ears as David Draiman from Disturbed shrieked his signature “OW-WA-A-A-A!” as he came Down With The Sickness, and if the hifi can handle that at three-quarters volume level, it can handle pretty much anything else.

Thankfully, physical rockers feature to control the dual-zone climate control system, although it can also be adjusted via the infotainment’s touchscreen. Setting the aircon to Auto and simply adjusting the temperature was sufficient for this review drive, and the system did a great job.

Driving The EQB

There’s a contorted saying that goes “People who live in glass houses should undress in the dark.” Speaking of glass houses, the view out of the EQB is excellent! Blind spots are minimal, and it is easy to place the SUV where one intends for it to go.

Even reversing without using the backup camera is easy, thanks to the large wing mirrors which offer superb visibility. That one sits higher up off the ground also helps in this regard.

There’s also a nifty feature called “Traffic light view” which turns on the front windscreen-mounted camera when one is at a standstill at a traffic light-controlled junction, for that added convenience of seeing when the lights change. Nice touch!

Road and wind noise are well contained and befitting a premium SUV EV that wears the three-pointed star emblem. The suspension is also supple and soaks up bumps with good body control.

Helping in this regard is the battery pack which sits underfloor and moves the centre of gravity lower. The end result, even at highway speeds, is an SUV that feels stable and planted at all times.

The 70.5kW battery pack can be charged via DC at a maximum of 100kW or via AC at 11kW, with the former said to take around 35 minutes. Due to the truncated timetable of the test drive, charge time was not tested.

Propelling the EQB forward is a 190hp electric motor that drives the front wheels. Now that may not sound like much, but 385Nm of torque is a handful for just the front tyres to handle. Floor the throttle from a standstill or at low speed and the front wheels will scrabble for grip.

What isn’t in doubt, however, is that this EQB prefers cruising on the highway as compared to sitting in stop-and-go street traffic.

Naturally, your mileage may vary with use-case, driving style and conditions, but a weighted and normalised test-drive average of 14.5kWh/100km or 6.89km/kWh compared to Mercedes-Benz’s 18.5kWh/100km or 5.41km/kWh WLTP efficiency claim is pretty good.

This brings us to the $305,000 question – “is the EQB 250+ a worthwhile purchase?” After spending some time with it, I would say ‘yes.’

Maybe a panoramic sunroof would have been a good addition, but with the exception of the Blackberry-esque optical trackpads on the steering wheel’s spokes, there’s not much to complain about here. Okay, maybe adaptive cruise control would also have been a nice addition.

It looks pleasant. It feels premium. It’s got the space. It has sufficient pace. And most importantly, the EQB 250+ is definitely worthy of wearing the Mercedes-Benz emblem. Difficult to argue with that, really.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

Technical Specifications

Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+

Power: 190hp
Torque: 385Nm
Drive: front wheels
0-100km/h: 8.9 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 160km/h (claimed)
Unladen Weight: 2,105kg
Battery Size: 70.5kW
Energy Economy: 18.5kWh/100km or 5.4km/kWh (claimed)
Range: up to 569km (claimed based on WLTP)
Price: from S$305,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Mercedes-Benz Singapore

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Mercedes-Benz has launched the new EQA and EQB ahead of the Car Expo 2024.

The EQA and EQB will be even more appealing to newcomers and those switching to electric vehicles. Fresh looks, a class-leading range of up to 569km on a single charge, and an updated MBUX with improved voice control and updated driving assistance systems are some of the new things to look out for.

Also, available as an option are the Sound Experiences, innovations from its larger model siblings. At market launch, consumers can look forward to the EQA 250+ (Electric Art and Progressvie), and the EQB 250+ (Electric Art and Progressvie).

“The Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQB have been some of the brand’s most well-received models, with many of our customers’ first experiences with the world of Mercedes-Benz through one of these all-electric models. As such, the new EQA and EQB could not have been better timed,” said Claudius Steinhoff, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Singapore.

“Refreshed with the latest in electric intelligence, the EQA and EQB now come with the most up-to-date connectivity, entertainment, and active safety features, including Dolby Atmos integration with the optional Burmester surround sound system. The new EQA and EQB outperform their compact size, even topping its class with an effective range of up to 569km, and we look forward to having our customers experience these vehicles for themselves.”

With the newly designed black panel surface with a star pattern at the front, the EQA and EQB visually catch up with their larger model siblings in the all-electric Mercedes-Benz family. Black stars come as standard, while for the Electric Art variant, the stars are in chrome.

A light band connects the daytime running lights while the new bumper emphasises the broad effect of the vehicle front. Trim elements in high-gloss black are integrated into the side protrusions, and the fog lamp is recessed.

The designers have also changed the insides of the taillights. Four new alloy wheels in 18-, 19- and 20-inch format and two new paint finishes, spectral blue and high-tech silver, complete the model range.

The engineers at Mercedes-Benz have been able to increase the ranges of the EQA to up to 569 kilometres (WLTP). The measurements include aerodynamic optimisation such as a new leading edge for the rear wheel arch, a ridge that functions as a spoiler, as well as rolling resistance-optimised tyres that contribute to improved efficiency.

New features in the interior include the current-generation steering wheel with touch control panels as well as the trim in brown lime open-pore wood, Mercedes-Benz pattern and backlit Mercedes-Benz pattern. In the latter trim, the star pattern is lasered into the plastic and is adaptively backlit.

The standard equipment has been expanded, with all EQAs and EQBs now coming with a 10.25-inch central touchscreen and USB package.

Different sound worlds that allow individual acoustic setups, which are familiar from the larger electric models from Mercedes-Benz, are now available in the EQA and EQB in conjunction with the optional Burmester surround sound system.

“Silver Waves” is a sensual and clean sound, while “Vivid Flux” is aimed at EV enthusiasts and is crystalline, synthetic and yet humanly warm. Both Sound Experiences can be selected in the central display or be switched off.

Two further sound worlds will be added shortly and can be unlocked online as part of the Individualisation Package if the optional Burmester Surround Sound System is on board: “Roaring Pulse” is reminiscent of powerful machines and is sonorous and extroverted, while “Serene Breeze” offers a relaxed and natural sound.

Both the EQA and EQB feature an updated generation of MBUX. The redesign of the infotainment system was focused on a new design and improved performance. This includes the zero-layer interface, whereby the user does not have to scroll through submenus or give voice commands.

In combination with the 10 colour worlds of the ambient lighting, there are numerous individualisation options. All previous functions such as media, phone, vehicle, etc. are still available and can be conveniently operated via the touchscreen, or the touch control buttons on the steering wheel.

Situationally and contextually, applications are offered on the top layer in the field of view. Smartphones can now connect wirelessly to the vehicle via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The display of the charging features in MBUX has also improved; for example, the charging flap can be unlocked on the central display via a softkey in the charging menu. Furthermore, the currently available DC charging power is displayed and during the charging process, the recharged range is indicated in kilometres.

By activating online services in the Mercedes me app, the intelligent voice assistant becomes even more capable of dialogue and learning. The system gets to know the driver and remembers familiar settings or usual driving routes. It then suggests personalised infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions to suit the respective driving situation.

However, if the suggestion is unnecessary, the driver can reject it with the function “Do not suggest now” or deactivate it permanently with “Do not suggest again” and the vehicle will remember these requests. Certain actions can also be triggered without saying “Hey Mercedes”, and the voice assistant can also explain vehicle functions.

The optional Burmester surround sound system now features the immersive Dolby Atmos audio experience in conjunction with the current MBUX generation. This feature gives music more space, clarity, and depth.

In addition, Dolby Atmos adapts to the playback environment, so listeners can hear music almost as clearly as it corresponds to the original vision of the artists in the studio.

EQA features 340 litres of boot space that can be expanded to 1,320 litres, while EQB holds 465 litres with the seatbacks up and 1,620 litres with them dropped.

Thanks to more powerful environment sensors, the parking systems can better support the driver when manoeuvring. Integrated into MBUX, they can be operated more intuitively and more quickly, and the Parking Package with 360-degree camera supports the driver when parking in and out of longitudinal and transverse parking spaces.

Photo Credits: Mercedes-Benz and LinkedIn

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It seems like only yesterday when electric vehicles (EVs) first hit the market. Now, with more countries and individuals touting electrification as “the future”, automotive manufacturers are pushing out new EVs by the dozen. Not wanting to miss out on a big share of the EV pie, Mercedes has also ramped up development and is going all in on their new electric EQ lineup.

With the EQA and EQC already on the market, effectively electric copies of their popular ICE counterparts, it was only a matter of time before Mercedes turned their attention to the GLB. Sure enough, the EQB was born.

Does it live up to the perceived high standards of the German three-pointed star? Let’s find out.

Electrifying silent drive

While its GLB sibling has to make do with a 1.3-litre petrol engine shared with Renault and Nissan, which was known to be quite boisterous and unrefined, the EQB leaves it in the dust with its newfound electric powers.

Even in its EQB250 guise with just a single front-mounted motor, 140kW (188bhp) and 385 Nm of torque is still plenty to get it briskly off the line. At full chat, the EQB can complete the century sprint in 8.9 seconds. Not too shabby for a single-motor 7-seater. Parking is a simple affair in this thing too, with good all-around visibility and a myriad of sensors to detect any speck of dust you would run into.

One thing I will commend the EQB for is its ride quality. Being a family-centric car, the EQB has pretty soft suspension, MacPhersons in the front and multi-link out back, which cushion out bumps and kinks in the road well. Plus, having the advantage of being an EV meant the ride was virtually silent, and without unnecessary vibrations.

Like most EVs on the market, the EQB is fuss-free when you’re going about your daily chores. It’s a relaxing car to cover long distances in (as long as it stays in Singapore), and a fully juiced battery should provide you with about 350km of range. In my time with the car, I averaged about 19.3kWh/100km, and that’s without eco-friendly pedal discipline.

Of course, this isn’t a car you would want to tear up B-roads in. But, being a little more enthusiastic in the corners, the EQB still held its composure well unlike other Mercedes EQ models such as the EQC. This is partially thanks to all that battery weight being low down under the floor, resulting in a lower centre of gravity. 

As long as you’re not hyping yourself up to be the next Micheal Schumacher on the roads, the EQB does well in delivering a dignified and relaxing drive.

Shockingly comfortable on the inside

While it is tamer in performance compared to other EVs on the market, the EQB has two major advantages going for it, and that is comfort and space. This is the first EV in Singapore with room for 7 in the cabin. So not only is the EQB able to carry your entire family nucleus around, but it also does so in silent comfort, with a ride quality befitting of the three-pointed star badge. 

Young ones will be sufficiently entertained for long journeys, thanks to the abundance of charging ports located throughout the cabin. Even 3rd-row passengers get their own ports and small cubby holes to store hand-held items, a big upgrade in in-flight amenities compared to other 7-seater models where last-row occupants are essentially exiled from the rest of the cabin. 

Up front, most of the creature comforts are similar to what you get in the GLB. Twin digital displays dominate the dashboard, both 10.25-inches in size.

Mercedes’ infotainment system is decent enough to use, but the scroll menus may be quite a hassle to navigate whilst driving, especially if you rely on the haptic buttons on the steering wheel. Those things are just cumbersome to use.

Turn the car on at night, and a smorgasbord of LEDs light up to greet you. While it can entertain your passengers, my hot take is that these LEDs actually make the car look less premium, looking like the aftermath of a modding trip with our Malaysian neighbours.

Aside from the flashy LEDs, there’s really not much to complain about in the interior of the EQB. It’s practical enough for the family, and the posh blend of materials will impress your co-workers at the office.

Sleek, ae-static styling

Following the rest of the Mercedes EQ lineup, the EQB’s exterior resembles a GLB which dressed up with way too much hair wax. The entire body looks very slippery with no indentations, probably to give the car as low of a drag coefficient as possible.

Up front, the traditional radiator grille has been replaced with a posh black panel with chrome details. The head and taillamps of the car are also new, with EQ-specific LED light strips. 18-inch alloys are standard on the car, but you can always spring for the AMG-line option to spec your EQB out with fancier body panels and AMG-specific 18-inch rims. However, with the EQB 250 you wouldn’t be able to get the 20-inch big boy tyres, as those are only reserved for the more powerful 350 4Matic. Talk about jealousy.

Unlike the rest of the EQ SUV range, the EQB has a tall and squarish roofline, much like the GLB. It isn’t the best looking, but it provides passengers with tons of headroom in the cabin. 

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate the look of the EQB. But I’m also not someone who would take a second glance at the car. There’s really not much going on. Granted, its design is functional, but I would have loved to see at least some distinguishing features between it and the GLB. Unless they’re put side by side, most people wouldn’t be able to tell one from the other.

Sparking a new segment for the EV market

The EQB does tick a lot of boxes. It’s the first relatively attainable EV 7-seater in the mainstream market that doesn’t come in the shape of a van. It has relatively brisk performance, drives tidily and has loads of space to boot. 

If you just can’t wait to ferry your kids around in smug, efficient silence, it’s a safe bet. But before you rush down and place a deposit, it might be worth considering what your needs are in a car. If your family nucleus is small and you want something a bit more punchy, then the smaller EQA may be a more enticing prospect, and you save some cash doing so too.

But, if you’re someone who wants a practical boot, comfortable drive, and the added benefit of ferrying 7 passengers when the need arises, then the EQB may be a compelling EV option.

Technical Specifications

Mercedes-Benz EQB
Battery Capacity: 66.5kWh
Drive: Front wheels
Power: 188hp
Torque: 385Nm
0-100km/h: 8.9 seconds (claimed)
Fuel Economy: 16.4kWh/100km or 6.1km/kWh (claimed)
Price: $320,888 (Progressive), $328,888 (Electric Art), both with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Mercedes-Benz Singapore

If you like EVs, why not check out the Mercedes-Benz EQV here!