Stylistically, the EQB has a decidedly ‘grown-up’ look and feel, combining the square form of the brand’s rugged off-roaders with a distinctly futuristic character. This is achieved through design hallmarks of the Mercedes-EQ range, such as the black panel grille with central star, and the distinctive full-width light strip at the front and rear.

While edgier and more angular in appearance than the EQA, the EQB offers even more functionality, with a level and spacious boot similar in dimensions to a mid-size station wagon. The backrests of the seats in the second row can be adjusted in several stages and the seat base adjusted fore/aft to further expand available boot capacity. Up to four child seats can be fitted in rows two and three, and, when not in use, the third row folds flush into the load floor to increase luggage space.

Safety for the new era

The EQB also furthers the Mercedes-Benz tradition of leading the field when it comes to automotive safety. It features a robust bodyshell that packages the battery low in the frame as a structural element, along with a range of safety features including retractable head restraints, seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters on all outer seats, and a side window bag that also covers passengers in the third row.

In addition, there’s an extensive array of intelligent driving assistance systems including an exit warning function that alerts the driver to approaching cyclists or vehicles, and a warning system when pedestrians are detected near zebra crossings.

The EQB driver is greeted by an impressive and hi-tech Widescreen Cockpit, with control and display via the intuitively operated MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. Depending on the equipment line, a spectacular backlit trim piece and rose gold-coloured decorative elements on the air vents, seats and vehicle key provide clues to the EQB’s electric character.

The efficient electric drive system is closely related to the EQA, with both EQ models also sharing similar advanced driving-assistance systems including clever energy-recuperation technology, and predictive Navigation with Electric Intelligence. The standard ECO Assist system incorporates navigation data, traffic-sign recognition plus information from various vehicle sensors to choose the most efficient anticipatory-driving strategies, saving power and extending vehicle range.

Right on track

Although it’s unclear at this stage which models Mercedes-Benz will specify for the Australian and New Zealand markets, the available range in Europe includes the EQB 300 4MATIC with 168kW of power, and the EQB 350 4MATIC with a more potent 215kW. Both models have an impressive range of 419km on the strict WLTP cycle, while an extended-range version is also in development, as is a more affordable front-wheel drive model.

With its high level of safety, strong performance, impressive range, exemplary noise comfort and superb interior quality, the EQB perfectly exemplifies the characteristics of the Mercedes-EQ brand, while its roomy and versatile seven-seat interior is sure to make it the electric vehicle of choice for discerning modern families.

Register your details for the latest updates on the all-new EQB.