12 Thursday <strong>July</strong> <strong>13</strong> <strong>2023</strong> Sustainable and sporty with a lot of space MERCEDES-BENZ continues its push to offer a broader range of electric models by adding an EV version of its compact but enormously practical EQB SUV. The EQB follows in the footsteps of the smaller EQA SUV, which alphabetically is a logical evolution. Since its launch in 2021, it’s become a popular choice for those keen to commit to a more sustainable lowemission vehicle, with premium looks and an inherently sporty disposition. What you get with the EQB is all that plus lots more space for people and luggage, in a vehicle capable of seating up to seven – or you can reconfigure the cabin to create a whooping 1600L of load capacity. Powering the EQB is an electric drivetrain developed by Mercedes-EQ. Its lithium-ion Motoring with Bob Nettleton battery has a usable energy content of 66.5 kWh. Weighing a respectable 469kg, it’s positioned beneath the vehicle floor, giving the EQB an ideal centre of gravity. The EQB has more in common with its GLB petrol powered sibling than you might think, including heaps of useable space from its compact footprint. With its flat floor and tall roofline, you are set to cart all manner of things from bikes to surf boards. The most affordable EQB is the $99,900 five-seat 250. A $2900 optional third row extends the seating to seven. A 140kW single e-motor dispatches power directly to the front wheels with efforts backed up by a hard working 385Nm of torque. It has a handy enough driving range of 371km according to the WLTP test standard. The EQB 350 Incorporating best motorbuys www.drivesouth.co.nz 4MATIC AWD lined up for this road test is priced at $109,900. Both models are covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and eight years cover on the battery. The tall styling is interesting rather than eye catching. Reduced lines and precise seams are a feature, while the upright front section with its dominant headlights has Mercedes Benz SUV DNA all over it. Torque and power arrive instantly, no engine revs required. It makes most internal combustion engines seem a tad like yesterday’s technology, which they probably will be in about five years. The EQB delivers exceptional performance across the board and does it with ease, and is brilliantly supported by two outstanding electric motors and a one speed automatic. The fit and finish of the passenger compartment is excellent. A large and spacious interior ensures plenty of room for everyone. The EQB 350 adds more significant features. Among them are sports seats with adjustable head restraints and micro fibre inserts with red stitching. A multi-function sports steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather adds a touch of class. A Driver Assistance Package features a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience systems. As with other vehicles in the Mercedes-EQ passenger vehicle line-up, the EQB has acoustic ambient protection to reduce the risk to pedestrians and cyclists by the vehicle’s silent drivetrain. It sounds an audible warning at speeds below 20km/h, plus a reversing tone. Handling is as good as you will find in a luxury compact SUV with deep reserves of real world grip. This isn’t a bona fide off-road battler; the vehicle’s modest ground clearance limits excursions in rougher terrain. As expected, the nicely weighted steering with its excellent road feel is everything we’ve come to expect from Mercedes Benz. Rating out of 10: Performance 8; Handling 8; Build Quality 8; Refinement 8; Space 8; Styling, 6; Value for money 7; Safety – 5-star ANCAP crash rating. 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