A Week With: 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+

The pattern towards making the EV iterations largely equivalent to their ICE counterparts is one I respect. All too typically, stylists are inclined to go a bit too far of their endeavors to conjure a singular search for EVs. On this case, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+ appears so near its GLB sibling they’re troublesome to inform aside from sure angles. 

Overview 

Now supplied in three completely different “states of tune,” the X243 EV (Mercedes’ inner platform designation) may be had with both front- or all-wheel drive. Thought of the entry-level EQB, the 250+ is new for the 2023 mannequin yr. Largely equivalent in look to its extra highly effective counterparts, the first distinguishing attribute of the 250+ is its extra beneficiant driving vary.

Exterior

The stable panel the place the grille is fitted to the ICE model of the Mercedes “B” SUV tells you it’s electrical.  In any case, there’s no have to route air into an engine compartment when there is no such thing as a engine. Different visible differentiators embody the blue highlights on the wheels and the dearth of exhaust retailers on the rear.   

Inside

Right here once more, the GLB and EQB are extracted largely from the identical mould. The structure is similar. The supplies employed are the identical, and the entire consolation and comfort options are the identical. 

This implies plush leather-based upholstering the seats, handsomely adorned door panels, tastefully utilized metallic trim all through the cabin and distinctive mild piping at evening. The important thing differentiator between the 2 is the rose gold accents discovered within the EQB, however not the GLB. 

Able to seating 5, the EQB will also be had with a 3rd row. Nevertheless, it’s largely ceremonial. An grownup compelled to take a seat there’ll rapidly come to know the ramifications of formality torture. 

Cargo capability is diminished considerably by the position of the battery pack. Nonetheless, the EQB is kind of able to supporting a household highway journey.

Powertrain

Rated to ship 188 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque, the electrical motor drives the entrance wheels instantly within the 250+. The lithium-ion battery pack has a capability of 70.5 kWh and is quoted as being good for about 245 miles of vary.  

DC quick charging time is quoted at 31 minutes to 80% from 90% depletion. The time from 90% depletion to a 100% cost is 11.25 hours with a 240v AC outlet. 

Security and Expertise

Inform the EQB you need espresso and the nav system will discover the closest location. Say “Hey Mercedes, it’s chilly,” and the person interface will increase the cabin temperature.  

Generally known as the Mercedes-Benz Person Expertise (MBUX), the system learns. It will also be operated by contact utilizing the panoramic display on the sprint, touch-sensitive factors on the steering wheel, or the touchpad on the middle console. 

Superior security options embody sensible cruise management, lane maintaining help, steering help, automated lane modifications, and energetic velocity restrict help. The EQB truly “reads” velocity restrict indicators and complies with them when the sensible cruise management system is activated. 

Driving Impressions

As good as that final little bit of tech sounds in concept, it’s fairly irritating in apply. 

Image it, you’re zipping together with the move of site visitors — sometimes 10 to fifteen mph over the restrict right here in California — when the Benz “sees” a velocity restrict signal and abruptly endeavors to adjust to its dictate. 

And I do imply abruptly. 

It feels just like the automobile out of the blue misplaced energy and your livid pumping of the throttle is making not one whit of distinction. In the meantime, the individuals within the automobiles behind you might be questioning WTH is your drawback? 

How did I do know what they have been considering?

Let’s simply say I witnessed the extension of the longest digit of many a driver’s left hand as they whipped across the silver Benz at their first alternative. 

Apart from that although, the EQB 250+ is fast, quiet, easy and handles simply.

2023 Mercedes EQB 250+ SUV Specs

Wrap Up

All in all, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+ makes a compelling case for the adoption of EVs. Granted, with 245 miles of vary, it isn’t going win many followers amongst lengthy distance drivers. 

Nevertheless, for the best way most individuals use compact SUVs it’s greater than satisfactory. 

It did all the pieces I wanted to do utilizing 120-volt AC family present. I ran my errands round city, plugged it in after I acquired house, and the little Benz was greater than adequately recharged the following day. 

And — issues acquired even higher as soon as I blinded it to hurry restrict indicators, which you are able to do in its arrange menus. 

2023 Mercedes EQB 250+ ­— Ceaselessly Requested Questions

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