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 novel search for EVs. On this case, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+ appears to be like so near its GLB sibling they’re troublesome to inform aside from sure angles.
Overview
Now provided in three completely different “states of tune,” the X243 EV (Mercedes’ inner platform designation) will be had with both front- or all-wheel drive. Thought-about 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 isn’t any engine. Different visible differentiators embody the blue highlights on the wheels and the shortage of exhaust retailers on the rear.
Inside
![2023 Mercedes EQB 250 SUV side](https://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-Mercedes-EQB-250-SUV-side-1024x683.jpeg)
Right here once more, the GLB and EQB are extracted largely from the identical mildew. The structure is similar. The supplies employed are the identical, and all the 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 night time. 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 may also be had with a 3rd row. Nonetheless, it’s largely ceremonial. An grownup pressured to take a seat there’ll rapidly come to grasp the ramifications of formality torture.
Cargo capability is diminished considerably by the location of the battery pack. Nonetheless, the EQB is sort of able to supporting a household highway journey.
![2023 Mercedes EQB 250 SUV rear 3-4](https://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-Mercedes-EQB-250-SUV-rear-3-4-1024x684.jpeg)
Powertrain
Rated to ship 188 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque, the electrical motor drives the entrance wheels immediately within the 250+. The lithium-ion battery pack has a capability of 70.5 kWh and is quoted as being good for roughly 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 Know-how
Inform the EQB you need espresso and the nav system will discover the closest location. Say “Hey Mercedes, it’s chilly,” and the consumer interface will elevate the cabin temperature.
Generally known as the Mercedes-Benz Person Expertise (MBUX), the system learns. It may also be operated by contact utilizing the panoramic display screen on the sprint, touch-sensitive factors on the steering wheel, or the touchpad on the middle console.
![2023 Mercedes EQB 250 SUV cockpit](https://www.thedetroitbureau.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-Mercedes-EQB-250-SUV-cockpit-1024x682.jpeg)
Superior security options embody sensible cruise management, lane protecting help, steering help, automated lane modifications, and energetic pace restrict help. The EQB really “reads” pace 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 principle, it’s fairly irritating in apply.
Image it, you’re zipping together with the circulate of site visitors — sometimes 10 to fifteen mph over the restrict right here in California — when the Benz “sees” a pace restrict signal and abruptly endeavors to adjust to its dictate.
And I do imply abruptly.
It feels just like the car all of a sudden misplaced energy and your livid pumping of the throttle is making not one whit of distinction. In the meantime, the folks within the vehicles behind you’re questioning WTH is your downside?
How did I do know what they had 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.
Aside from that although, the EQB 250+ is fast, quiet, clean 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.
Nonetheless, for the way in which 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 once I received residence, and the little Benz was greater than adequately recharged the subsequent day.
And — issues received 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+ — Regularly Requested Questions
What’s the vary of the EQB 250+?
I noticed a max of 245 miles on a full cost.
What’s the distinction between the EQB 250 and 300?
The front-wheel drive EQB 250+ has a 245-mile vary, in comparison with 232 for the EQB 300 4Matic and 221 for the EQB 350 4Matic.
What are the EQB’s key rivals?
Mercedes cites the Audi This autumn e-tron, Tesla Mannequin Y and VW ID.4.