Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQB amped up

The electric compact EQA and EQB SUVs from Mercedes-Benz are due to get updates, adding more range, extra standard equipment and new styling.

The new EQA 250+ and EQB 250+ models get 578km range (NEDC) and 564km range (NEDC) respectively – up 54km and 57km on their previous variants, and are priced at $92,500 and $100,900 respectively.

New styling includes a front grille design featuring a constellation of Mercedes-Benz stars, plus distinctive new tail-light graphics.

Inside, both models are fitted with the current-generation Mercedes-Benz multifunction sports steering wheel in Nappa leather, featuring touch control buttons, plus a new Mercedes-Benz backlit pattern trim.

Significant updates to standard equipment now include some previously optional items, such as AMG Line exterior styling featuring AMG body styling, front seats with electric adjustment and memory setting, an advanced sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and standard metallic paint. 

In addition, the EQB 250+ adds a third row of seats as standard, allowing seating for up to seven people.

This previously popular option – which can also be folded flat to create significant extra cargo capacity – further enhances the family-friendly appeal of this highly practical and flexible all-electric SUV, says Mercedes-Benz.

Both variants have an electric motor generating 140kW power and 385Nm torque, allied to a 70.5kWh battery pack, and ride on adjustable damping suspension. 

Standard equipment carries over from the outgoing EQA 250 and EQB 250, including three-zone automatic climate control, sports-style front seats in ARTICO and MICROCUT microfibre with four-way lumbar support, the MBUX multimedia system including navigation with augmented reality display, interior ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours, Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto smartphone integration, wireless charging for mobile devices, digital radio, and a partition net and Load Compartment Package.

There’s also Keyless-Go entry and startup, a powered Easy-Pack tailgate, a Parking Package including 360° camera view and active parking assist, LED high-performance headlights with adaptive high beam assist, heat-insulating dark tinted glass from the centre pillar backwards, and 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels.

An array of integral safety systems on both variants includes nine airbags, the Pre-Safe accident anticipation system, Distronic active distance assist cruise control, active lane keeping assist, blind spot assist, traffic sign assist, active braking assist, exit warning function, tyre pressure monitoring, an auto-dipping rear-view mirror, and the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system. 

Public charging is effortlessly manageable withy seamless integration into the MBUX multimedia system standard on all EQA and EQB variants. This includes navigation fitted with an “Electric Intelligence” feature that calculates a comfortable and time-efficient route, including charging stops. 

The Mercedes me Charge network is supplied in cooperation with ChargeNet, with more than 400 charging stations across New Zealand. Customers can activate this service and access stations using the Mercedes me App, MBUX head unit, or a Mercedes me Charge Card (RFID card)

 All EQA and EQB variants are supplied with a five-metre charging cable designed for use with the optional Mercedes-Benz Wallbox or at public charging stations, and an eight-metre cable for use with domestic power sockets.