Rise of the machines
One cannot deny that EVs are on the rise. Therefore, it came as no surprise that the award-winning EQC would be the only EV from Mercedes-Benz. This brings us neatly to the EQA 250, the second battery electric vehicle (BEV) to feature that three-pointed star.
At $85,500 plus ORC, the EQA 250 just falls short of the Government’s criteria for the Clean Car Rebate. However, when you compare it to other luxury BEVs in this price bracket, the EQA presents itself as decent value.
Looks wise, the EQA still mostly resembles the petrol powered GLA on which it’s based. However, instead of a front grill, you get a gloss black panel between a set of svelte LED headlights and a handsome LED lightbar at the rear. Also, those swish 20-inch AMG Alloys were icing on the cake.
The EQA’s interior is very much a case of GLA déjà vu. The switchgear, steering wheel and the MBUX 10.25-inch dual screen infotainment system being the most obvious aspects. Mercedes’ Driver Assistance package which includes features like Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Steering, and Lane Keep Assist comes as standard, as does Mercedes-Me Connect. All the features are a doddle to use. Then again, you can simply utilise the “Hey Mercedes” feature like Siri or Alexa to operate most of them if you prefer.
The heated leather seats serve up a good level of comfort and lateral support. Plus, once you are cocooned by your surroundings, there is a feeling of real quality in here.
With a single E-motor and battery pack producing a combined 140kW and 375Nm of torque, Mercedes claims electric range of 410km and while using a Type 2 fast-charging system, the EQA will recharge back to 80 percent full in a snip over half an hour.
Flicking up and down on the shift paddles allows you to choose from four levels of regenerative braking, with the two negative stages providing some serious braking power while giving back some extra electric oomph.
The EQA 250 is not what one would call brisk. However, the instant torque of an electric motor makes itself known when you flick over to ‘sport’ mode.
It isn’t featherweight, but it can still dart around corners with plenty of pomp and ceremony should the need arise.
While more than able to deliver a spirited drive, the EQA is much more at home sipping on the electric juice and prompting you to drive as economical as possible. Simply stick it in Comfort or Eco mode, and supple silent running becomes a soothing pastime.
Ride quality is also very good, as is that beautifully symphonic Burmester Sound System.
While not perfect, the EQA 250 is certainly a well-rounded, well-priced luxury BEV. It will come as no surprise if Mercedes shift a fair number of these while their EV family continues to grow over the coming years. All in all, this one is worth checking out.
