2022 Mercedes-EQ EQB: The GLB Goes Electric

Competes with: Audi Q4 E-Tron, BMW iX3, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4, Volvo XC40 Recharge

Looks like: An electric GLB

Powertrains: Dual electric motors producing 225 system horsepower and 288 pounds-feet of torque (EQB300) or 288 hp and 384 pounds-feet (EQB350); 66.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack; all-wheel drive

Hits dealerships: 2022

Mercedes-Benz’s first all-electric SUV to hit our shores will be the compact EQB that made its global debut earlier in 2021, and it makes an intriguing option for those looking to go electric with their next vehicle. Like the gas-only GLB compact SUV, the EQB will offer an optional third row of seats, making it the only all-electric SUV that isn’t the Tesla Model X to seat up to seven — and with a smaller footprint to boot.

Related: Mercedes-Benz Plans EQB Electric SUV for U.S.

The looks of the EQB haven’t changed since we first saw it in the spring, but now we have (some) official specs for the U.S. version.

EQ Looks in a GLB Package

The exterior styling of the EQB is, at its heart, “What if we made an electric GLB?” It has similar proportions and many of the same lines as the GLB. It’s also a smidge longer and taller than the GLB, but with a wheelbase a tenth of an inch shorter. EQ-specific styling cues include the black “grille” panel up front with a large Mercedes star badge in the center, and bi- or tricolor wheel choices with rose gold or blue accents. The LED headlights and taillights are also unique to EQ vehicles and feature a “light band” that runs between them. Buyers can also add an AMG Line Package for a more aggressive appearance.

Interior

The EQB’s optional third row of seats makes it stand out among the current crop of EVs currently available. While the Tesla Model X also offers a third row, it’s more than a foot longer than the EQB (and likely to be more expensive). Mercedes does point out that the two seats in the third row are best for occupants 5 feet, 4 inches tall or shorter, making it best left to smaller adults and children, but it’s a nice-to-have option.

The EQB’s interior mirrors the GLB’s in other ways, too, with the cockpit comprising a set of dual 10.25-inch displays, one for the instrument panel and one a touchscreen display for infotainment. The EQB will use the latest iteration of Mercedes’ MBUX operating system, which includes augmented reality navigation and voice command capabilities, as well as standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Power, Range and Charging

The EQB will come in two flavors: the modest EQB300 and more powerful EQB350. Both feature standard all-wheel drive and will use the same 66.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Both also have a dual-motor configuration — one on the front axle and the other on the rear — but the 300’s produce 225 horsepower and 288 pounds-feet of torque, while the 350’s are good for 288 hp and 384 pounds-feet.

Range estimates using European measurements are equal for both, at roughly 260 miles, but the EPA has yet to provide its own (usually lower) estimates. Charging estimates for the EQB vary from less than 12 hours to go from 10% to 100% charged using a 240-volt wall charger rated for 32 amps, or 31 minutes to go from 10% to 80% using DC fast charging. Buyers will get one free year of Mercedes me Charge, which provides access to public charging at a variety of public charging stations.

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Safety

Mercedes being Mercedes, there’s a lot of advanced safety tech available on the EQB — but the key word there is “available.” Blind spot monitoring, emergency braking assistance and lane-keeping assistance are standard, but more advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, are available as part of the optional Driver Assistance Package.

Pricing and Availability

The EQB is scheduled to go on sale sometime in 2022, but pricing information is not yet available.

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