Road Test Review: EQB AMG Line Launch Edition 4MATIC from Mercedes-EQ
Independent review by Maxine Ashford
5-minute read
Highlights
- Top-level technology
- Extensive electric driving range
- Enjoyable to drive
- Comfortable interior
Introduction
Mercedes-Benz has launched a fully electric luxury SUV model, the EQB. We tested the AMG Line Launch Edition trim, and it definitely did not disappoint.
The all-new EQB is quite unique in the industry as it offers 7-seat practicality, has the distinctive design of a Mercedes SUV and comes packed with a multitude of features to enjoy.
Engine and Performance
The full-sized 5-door EQB model is available in trim levels AMG Line, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Launch Edition and offers a driving range of up to 257 miles depending on the trim.
There is also a choice between the EQB 300 delivering 225bhp or the EQB 350 with 288bhp. Both versions have a 66.5kWh battery and a 100kW DC on-board charger, allowing it to be rapid charged from 10 to 80 percent in about 32 minutes.
We opted for the high-end EQB 350 4MATIC AMG Line Launch Edition.
Despite a weight of just over 2.1 tonnes, the EQB is a powerful beast with 273lb ft of torque on tap. It can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 99mph.
When it comes to performance, the EQB offers sublime levels of comfort while cruising with ease at 70mph on motorways.
Maxine Ashford
It can be pushed hard into twisting country lanes and is deceptively agile in busier city centres.
There is a constant stream of power on tap to make light work of overtaking and drive modes called Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual alter the behaviour of the car. There are also five levels of recuperative braking used for boosting the battery levels on the move.
The electrically-adjustable damping system smooths out bumpy road surfaces and the cabin is beautifully refined with barely a tyre rumble or wind sound filtering through.
Design and Practicality
Our model had plenty of road presence with striking 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, an electrically-operated panoramic sunroof, blue EQ badging to highlight the vehicle’s electric powertrain, AMG Line body styling, roof rails and heat-insulating dark tinted glass.
The interior is exquisitely designed, with the focal point being two 10-inch infotainment screens behind a single pane of glass.
Three adults can sit comfortably in the second row of seats, and the pair of back seats can quickly be raised or lowered, as well as coming with ISOFIX child fixtures.
The boot, accessed via a powered tailgate, can hold 465 litres of kit, increasing to 1,710 litres with the seats in rows two and three dropped flat. There are also numerous storage compartments scattered around the cabin, including practical door pockets, seat back nets, a deep central cubby, front and rear cup holders, plus a glovebox.
Equipment and Technology
There is a 10-speaker sound system, sat nav, a head-up display, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with a wireless charging pad and powered, heated seats.
All the instrumentation can be personalised to taste, and readouts include vital information about battery charge levels and the remaining driving range.
Navigating the many on-board features is achieved via a touchpad, voice activated personal assistant or gesture control – all of which mean less driver distraction.
The EQB features a wealth of safety systems to protect occupants and other road users alike, helping it gain a maximum five stars when tested for its Euro NCAP safety rating. And if Mother Nature takes an unpredictable turn for the worse, the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system will keep you moving in more challenging driving conditions.
Summary
All in all, the EQB, which sits neatly between the EQA and EQC in the Mercedes-EQ range, is a quality all-rounder. It looks dynamic, drives beautifully and boasts one of the best interiors around.
The EQB AMG Line Launch Edition also comes packed with additional comfort and safety features, all included to ensure the Launch Edition trim can give you the complete electrified Mercedes-Benz experience.
