Test
Vehicle's MSRP: $61,650 (Base
Model: $55,550)
Seating
Capacity: 5 or 7
Standard
Safety Features: airbags; ABS; a
rearview camera; vehicle stability control; traction control; adaptive highbeam
assist headlights; an electronic blindspot system; a lane keep assist system; and rain-sensing wipers
Options:
charging cable;
AMG line sport steering wheel; augmented video; panorama roof; speed limit
assist; heated front seats; AMG body styling; AMG diamond block grille trim;
exterior mirror covers; a heads-up display system; massaging front seats; and
window trim
EQB 350 4Matic (AWD)
Standard
Audio On Test Vehicle: AM/FM/HD
Bluetooth
Connectivity: Standard
USB
Connectivity: Standard
Apple/Android
Connectivity: Standard
Bumper-to-Bumper
Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Battery Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles
Horsepower: 225-hp
Standard Fuel Mileage: 104-cty/98-hwy
What’s
New: The German brand’s EQB is all-new for the 2022 model year. This is the
brand’s least expensive all-electric vehicle.
All-wheel drive availability
An all-electric vehicle
Precision driving characteristics one expects in a gasoline
powered Mercedes-Benz
The brand’s most economical all-electric vehicle
Roomy
Comfortable seating
Roofline accommodates tall occupants
Versatility
Augmented reality navigation system
Power front seats with memory
An oversized 10-inch navigation system
Loads of utility space
Great visibility
A panorama sunroof
Massaging front seats
Three row optional seating capacity
Wireless charging
A 288-horsepower model is available (EQB 350)
Free 30-minute charging for the first two years of ownership with the Electrify America charging network
Keyless entry not standard equipment
SiriusXM radio is not standard equipment
Limited drive range with base 300 model
Driver assist features are optional on the vehicle
No underneath the hood storge area for most electric vehicles
No radar activated cruise control system is available
When third row seats are ordered, the rear cargo area is virtually eliminated
Ventilated front seats aren't available
The all-wheel drive EQB is available in two trims: the EQB 300 and the EQB 350. The only noticeable difference between the models are the horsepower, driving range and the price point. For approximately a $3,500 savings, we found the EQB 300, which spews out 55 less horsepower than the EQB350 to be more than adequate for most electric vehicle drivers, while also offering a higher diving range.
Like the GLB, the EQB is available as a two row or a three row vehicle. The German brand’s entry-level crossover is also outfitted with a pair of 10-inch iPad-like screens which houses the digital driver gauges and the touchscreen infotainment center. The EQB is also equipped with such features as 18-inch wheels to power operated memory front seats to a power rear liftgate.
And for those seeking more create comfort and tech features, the EQB option list ranges from heated front seats to a panoramic sunroof to an augment navigation system to some of the latest safety driving aids.
Ironically, underneath the hood, many of the mechanics one would expect from a gasoline powered vehicle are found here. Thus, this leaves no room for additional storage like that of many of today’s electric vehicles. Its as if Mercedes-Benz retrofitted the GLB, turning a gasoline model into an electric vehicle. Although we must note, this boxy looking crossover is not lacking storage.
Lastly, we were disappointed that our test model lacked a standard remote keyless entry system and SiriusXM radio. Its a Mercedes-Benz. We expect these features to be standard.
Overall, this is one of the most affordable luxury electric vehicles in the market place, with a starting price just shy of $57,000. Even with options, our GLB 300 listed for a hare under $62,000, which is below the average cost electric cost of $66,000.
Competition: Audi Q4 e-tron and Volvo XC40 Recharge
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