Mercedes-Benz EQB 2022 Review

The choice of C-segment electric SUVs in the Malaysian market is growing, and family users and young buyers are paying more attention to the combination of "luxury brand + practical space." The recently released 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB Upcoming Version integrates brand premium value and flexible 7-seater space (Note: Adjusted to a 7-seater layout to better suit the model's positioning) into a price of RM328,888. This combination of features is rare among electric SUVs in the same segment. In this test drive, we focus on the practicality of its space, whether the driving quality aligns with Mercedes-Benz's luxury positioning, and whether its core electric vehicle range can meet daily commuting and weekend travel needs.

In terms of exterior design, the EQB continues the sealed-front style of the Mercedes EQ family, paired with the illuminated three-pointed star logo, achieving decent recognition during the day. The side profile maintains the traditional SUV contour, with a waistline running from the front to the rear, and a blacked-out D-pillar creating a floating roof effect. At the rear, its continuous tail light strip is a signature design of the EQ series. When lit at night, the light is evenly distributed, echoing the illuminated logo at the front. The wheels feature an 18-inch aerodynamic design, which, while not exceptionally aggressive, aligns with the stable styling of a family SUV.

Stepping inside, the familiar Mercedes interior layout is easy to get accustomed to. The upper part of the dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch material, offering a pleasant feel. A 10.25-inch dual screen setup comes standard, providing high resolution and smooth operation as expected. The air conditioning control section retains physical buttons, making it more convenient for daily use without needing to look at the screen to adjust temperature or airflow. The seats are made of faux leather, offering good support and wrapping. The front seats also feature electric adjustment functions. In terms of space, the 2829mm wheelbase is considered mainstream in the C-segment, with ample front-row seating space; a 175cm tall passenger would have one fist and two fingers of headroom. The second-row seats can be adjusted forwards and backwards, providing up to two fists of legroom. The rear row is also equipped with independent air conditioning vents and Type-C charging ports, catering to the needs of rear passengers. The third-row seats are more suitable for children or short-term use, as adults may feel cramped over longer durations. However, as a seven-seater vehicle, it is sufficient for occasional emergencies. The trunk offers a standard storage space of 465L, which can expand to 870L with the third-row seats folded down, and up to a maximum of 1710L when the second-row seats are folded down, ample enough for strollers or luggage.

In terms of power, the EQB Upcoming Version is equipped with a front-mounted single electric motor, delivering a maximum power of 140kW and peak torque of 380N·m, paired with a fixed-ratio transmission. Three driving modes are available: Eco, Comfort, and Sport. Comfort mode is sufficient for everyday driving, with the motor responding swiftly to start, unlike the lag in fuel-powered cars, allowing for easy city driving and overtaking. In Sport mode, power delivery is more direct, and the acceleration offers a noticeable push-back effect, but considering this is a family SUV, Sport mode might not be frequently used. As for handling, the steering wheel feels light and manageable, making it easy for female drivers to handle, with decent steering precision. When cornering, vehicle body roll is well-controlled with no significant wobble. The chassis employs a front MacPherson and rear multi-link suspension combination, tuned toward comfort. When driving over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension absorbs most of the minor vibrations, ensuring that passengers inside do not feel significant jolts. At high speeds, the vehicle remains stable; when cruising at 120 km/h, the steering wheel displays no looseness, instilling confidence in the driver.

Range and energy consumption are the most important concerns for electric vehicle users. The CLTC range of the EQB Upcoming Version is 512km. During this test drive, we mainly switched between urban and highway conditions with the air conditioning set to 24℃ throughout. The final displayed range achievement rate was around 80%, and the energy consumption was approximately 17kWh per 100km. Such performance is considered moderate among household electric vehicles. It is sufficient for a week of daily commuting on a single charge, and a weekend round trip of 200km to the suburbs without needing to recharge midway. The energy recuperation system offers three adjustable levels. At the highest level, releasing the accelerator causes noticeable drag, which is suitable for single-pedal driving in urban traffic. At the lowest level, it feels more like the coasting of a fuel-powered car, making it more comfortable for highway cruising. In terms of noise control, motor noise is minimal and almost inaudible below a speed of 60km/h. At higher speeds, wind and tire noise become slightly more apparent but remain within an acceptable range, not affecting normal conversation between passengers inside the car.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB Upcoming Version lie in the backing of the Mercedes brand, the flexible 7-seater space, and its well-balanced driving performance. Compared to similar models like the Tesla Model Y (5-seater) or Volkswagen ID.6 (7-seater but with lower brand premium), the EQB strikes a more balanced note in terms of luxury and practical space. It is well-suited for families who value brand reputation and need a 7-seater vehicle for daily commuting, school runs, or weekend family outings. While its range achievement rate and energy consumption performance are not particularly outstanding, considering the Mercedes brand positioning and space configuration, the price of RM328,888 has a certain level of competitiveness.

If you’re considering a reliable, spacious, and luxurious electric SUV, the EQB Upcoming Version is worth considering. It doesn’t offer particularly aggressive performance, but it delivers well in terms of space, comfort, and practicality, which are the most important aspects for family use. It is a well-balanced vehicle suited for daily use by families.