Mercedes-Benz releases EQA price in Australia, New Zealand to follow

Mercedes-Benz Cars Australia has confirmed its recommended retail pricing for the all-electric EQA hatch but a spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Cars New Zealand says a local announcement will be coming soon.

The EQA is available to order in Australian dealerships from April 2021, with deliveries to commence from June 2021. It provides a new entry point to the EQ family, priced at A$76,800 (incl. GST and LCT). 

An exclusive Edition 1 package costs an additional A$7300.

The package includes 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels finished exclusively in matte copper, AMG Line exterior trim, Neva grey leather and blue upholstery, backlit Spiral-look trim elements, blue stitching for the door panels and centre console, air vents in silver chrome and energy blue, sports multifunction steering wheel, AMG pedals, illuminated door sill panels, Edition 1 floor mats, and a unique vehicle key.

SUVs account for one in every three Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles sold globally, compact models comprise one-in-four, and customer interest in the Mercedes-Benz EQ brand and its portfolio of all-electric and mild hybrid models is at an all-time high around the world says the manufacturer. 

Mercedes-Benz Cars Australia says with a driving range of up to 480 km (ADR) the EQA 250 adequately covers the daily commute for most customers, and adds the flexibility to plan extra-urban road trips and weekends away. 

The EQA 250 can be recharged at home via a Mercedes-Benz Wallbox or standard 240-volt wall plug, while the nation’s growing network of rapid and ultra-rapid chargers adds the option of fast top-ups on the go. Every Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 purchase includes a Chargefox subscription, with complimentary unlimited access to selected Ultra-Rapid and Rapid chargers for three years. 

The EQA 250 SUV is powered by an asynchronous electric motor at the front axle with a rated output of 140 kW and 375 Nm, via a single-speed spur gear set. The transmission ratio and gear wheels have been configured for the front-wheel drive system. 

Beneath the floor as part of the integral vehicle structure is a ‘double-decker’ 420-volt lithium-ion battery with five modules and 200 cells, creating usable energy content of 66.5 kWh and combined electrical consumption of 16.2 kWh per 100 km (ADR). The battery is part of an intelligent thermal management system, which can be cooled or heated as required via a coolant-fed plate underneath the battery, ensuring it can be kept within optimal temperature range for operation and charging.

A Type 2 CCS plug and supplied charging cables allow the EQA to achieve from 10-80% charge via an optional installed Mercedes-Benz Wallbox in around 4 hr 15 min (AC connection with at least 11 kW), and from 10-80% charge with a rapid charger in 30 min (DC connection with a 100kW supply).

The time required for a full charge depends on available infrastructure and equipment, and charging via a home-installed Mercedes-Benz Wallbox is considerably faster than at a domestic power socket.

Unmistakably EQ

The EQA features a black panel grille, divided into two by a louvre, highlighting the central star that is a hallmark of the brand. A horizontal fibre-optic strip connects the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlights, ensuring a high level of recognisability both in daylight and at night. Blue colour highlights within the headlight reinforce the signature EQ appearance. The front wing features a badge in high-gloss black with EQA lettering in blue. The rear end also includes characteristic EQ features. The LED tail lights merge seamlessly into the tapered LED light strip, underlining the impression of width in the rear view of the EQA.  

Additionally, the EQA is distinguished by front and rear aprons in chrome, while the roof rails and waistline and window-line trim strips are polished aluminium.

Comprehensively equipped

The EQA has adjustable damping suspension with multi-link rear, a direct steer system and DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode selection, and rides on eye-catching 19-inch AMG 5-twin spoke light-alloy wheels.

Inside, the EQA is equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, including voice control (‘Hey Mercedes’) and 10.25-inch centre touchscreen that is the hub for functions such as navigation, media playback, telephony and vehicle functionality. A second 10.25-inch screen forms a customisable digital instrument cluster for the driver.

 Other convenience functions include keyless entry and start, a powered tailgate with handsfree access, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto plus wireless charging for selected mobile devices, heated and electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control including remotely actuated pre-entry climate control, ARTICO upholstery and a leather multi-function sports steering wheel, and a DAB+ digital radio tuner.

 The standard safety fitment includes the Driver Assistance Package with active distance assist cruise control with automatic restart, route-based speed adaptation, and a range of active assists including steering, braking, lane keeping and blind-spot monitoring. Traffic Sign Assist and Parking Package including Parking Assist and reversing camera, all help keep occupants safe, as do nine airbags.