Road Test Review: EQC AMG Line Premium from Mercedes-EQ
Independent review by Jon Smith
5-minute read
Highlights
- Great performance
- Comfortable and spacious
- Efficient powertrain
- Good features and controls
Introduction
It has been a while since I have been behind the wheel of a mid-size or large Mercedes-Benz. And I had almost forgotten just how good they steer and ride.
This car, however, was rather different from its predecessors in that it is Mercedes-Benz's first fully electric model.
The EQC is clearly based on the well established GLC but about 100mm longer with electric motors mounted on each axle as part of the four-wheel drive system.
Bodywork tweaks allow the EQC to be easily differentiated from the regular ICE model. And the burning question for most potential buyers is how far will it go on a single charge, with 250 miles being the claimed range.
Powertrain and Performance
Start the motor and engage ‘drive’ from the traditional steering wheel stork so favoured by the German marque, and you are about to become aware of just how quiet the car is.
Obviously, no combustion commotion. But wind and tyre noise is minimal and the EQC is so well screwed down and stiff that rattles or creaks are totally banished.
With 402bhp at your beck and call and 561lb ft of torque, it is hardly surprising it gets a wiggle on. 62mph comes up in under six seconds, and the linear power takes a bit of readjusting to if you are not used to electrification.
Jon Smith
Perhaps the biggest treat in store for new owners is the crispness of the steering and its precision. Few decent size SUVs can match this dynamic quality. Similarly, the ride, even over poor surfaces, matches that of a luxury saloon, yet the damping is firm enough to allow and even encourage enthusiastic cornering; the perfect compromise.
Despite the general level of comfort and an absorbent ride, there is little roll around bends. Excellent grip afforded by the four-wheel drive system and huge tyres accompanied by good visibility make it a rapid cross-country express.
Design and Practicality
It is hard not to be impressed by the quality of the cabin furnishings, both visually and to the touch.
All the features and controls are thoughtfully placed and pleasantly weighted, giving an impression of longevity and luxury. Less appealing is the reflection on the windscreen from brightwork strips that decorate the dash.
Space inside the smartly but soberly appointed cabin is ample rather than generous. Those in the front are well catered for, but backseat legroom can be at a premium if the electrically operated front seats are taken right back.
There is no shortage of space in the electrically operated rear boot, which with a capacity of 500 litres can absorb all the family luggage. Still on the practical side of things, there are wide door pockets for clutter and water bottles and a deep centrally placed lidded-box in the front.
Although the range is officially around 250 miles, we found that the 240-mile mark was the most we could charge it to. And with the air conditioning in full swing while travelling, the range soon diminishes.
Summary
Elegant, and individual enough to separate it from the established ICE versions, the EQC ranks among the best all electric SUVs available.
And the AMG Line Premium trim is the perfect option for drivers wanting to make the most out of the EQC, as this range-topping trim really does offer it all. There are other available trims though lower down the specs for those that do not want to increase the price point even more.
