2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB – Mercedes-EQ has prepared a large influx of mainstream electric cars to compete with its flagship EQS full-size sedan. In autumn, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB SUV is expected to enter the US. It’s an all-electric version of the GLB compact crossover. Like its sibling, the EQB will feature two- or three rows. This could make the EQB the most beloved Mercedes-EQ product in America. This will only happen if the EQB can maintain its gasoline-powered counterpart’s enjoyable driving experience and affordable entry cost. Mercedes won’t speak of the latter, however, the automaker invited us to Stuttgart, Germany, to test the EQB. It was 50 miles, and there were many roads and speeds. It allowed me to quickly identify how much of GLB’s spirit lives in the EQB, and how the all-electric powertrain makes it feel more relaxed and engaging.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB Review
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB Redesign
Engine
Shortly after I began my time in the EQB, Germany’s sky opened up to torrential rain. The rain did eventually stop, but the roads were still soggy the rest of the way. The crossover managed to reach 65 mph on freeways and only about one-third on back roads. The Mercedes EQB-spec 4Matic all-wheel-drive delivers 225 horsepower, 288 pounds of torque, and a maximum speed of 62 mph in the base 300 models. The 350 model boasts 288 horsepower and 384 lbft. My test car, a rosy gold EQB 300 has an additional 4 horsepower and 30 pounds more than the GLB 250. It has a quick response time and nimble performance. Despite its weight, which is expected due to the large battery, EQB 300 delivers instant torque, so there is no performance drop. It is more agile than the GLB250 in town. The EV’s drag coefficient is 0.28 lower than that of the gasser. This allows it to win the wind a bit more easily. There are three levels of regenerative brakes. The intelligent mode uses the car’s existing radar, navigation system, and other systems to detect and forecast traffic. The EQB does not stop at a halt when regen is applied. I’m not sure why the EQS has a one-pedal drive.
The EQB is approximately 1,000 lighter than the GLB. As speeds increase, the EQB’s weight becomes more noticeable and the instant-on electric torque begins to lose its charm. Although the EQB feels a bit flat at speeds over 80 mph it has a top speed of 99 mph so it isn’t a Mercedes-Benz freeway king. For those who love the Autobahn’s open sections, the EQB is a great option. The handling area is where extra mass can prove to be beneficial. The EQB replaces the sibling’s front-mounted gas engine with an electrical motor. Between the two low-mounted batteries is a 66.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery. The EQB’s lower center of gravity makes it less likely to roll in corners than the GLB and it is easier to turn in. The electric crossover isn’t sporty – perhaps a Mercedes-AMG EQB45 could fix that – but it feels safe and secure. Stuttgart’s EQB 300 was a great car to drive. It had remarkable composure on rough roads thanks to its low weight and dampening effect. While the GLB can be a bit rough on rough roads, the EQB is quieter and smoother. You can still expect creaks and rattles in the EV, which is still based on one of Mercedes’ cheapest cars. The EQB still deserves its three-pointed star.
Electric System
The EQB works just like any other Mercedes-EQ product. It has a glossy black face with angular headlights and an air-curtain-generating bumper. A venturi bumper valence highlights the butt-lift, as well as a swooping backlight bar. A set of EQS-inspired aerodynamic, multi-spoke wheels increases efficiency and family resemblance. The details of the electric crossover are boxier than the GLB’s square-jawed GLB but still look chunky from the front. Thanks to minor alterations and my test’s incredible coat of Rose Gold Metallic paint, the EQB has a lot less personality than the mini bulldog GLB. Even smaller changes can be made inside. Rose gold accents have been added to the interior brightwork and vents of the EQB. My tester had seats with jazzy inserts from cloth. While the GLB remains the most important vehicle, the EQB is available with an optional 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and 64-color ambient lighting. Transparent dashboard trim makes this shine even more. The SUV has plenty of headroom and good seating positions front and back. However, the third row should only be used in an emergency or for sadomasochism.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB
Even though an EV is not intended for internal combustion, the 2023 Mercedes Benz EQB can travel 419km (260 miles) with the optimistic WLTP scale. The EPA test should be more precise and the EQB should achieve a score of around 230 miles. The EQB would have slightly lower power than the Audi Q4 E-Tron (231, miles), but would still be more powerful than the smaller Volvo XC40 Recharge (211, miles). The EQB’s 420-volt electric structure can charge at a maximum speed of 190 kilowatts. A DC fast charger can charge it from 10 to 80 percent within 30 minutes. It can also increase its range by up to 87 miles in just 15 minutes. In just five hours and 45 minutes, the little Benz can recharge its battery with a 240-volt wall charger. The XC40 can be charged at a maximum speed of 150 kW while the Q4 E-Tron can charge at 135 kW.
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB Interior
2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB Release Date & Price
The price is another important factor in any vehicle purchase decision. In Germany, the EQB is 10 percent more costly than the equivalent Audi and 5 percent cheaper than Volvo. The Benz will be less than $55,000 if the same calculation is applied in the USA. This is quite a high price for a small SUV. The EQB’s futuristic G Class puppy styling, spacious cabin, and ample charging and range credentials make it attractive to many. It will be an attractive amuse-bouche for Mercedes’ next generation of compact cars. The new platform will allow them to ride on EVs, and then be retrofitted for gas engines. I am convinced that the EQB’s appealing paint job and interior finishes will be my choice over a GLB. The best part is the smooth and effortless driving experience.
