Mercedes, the frontrunner in the luxury electric vehicle market, is once again making waves with its latest mid-life refresh of the practical seven-seat EV, the EQB. Unveiled as an all-electric counterpart to its internal-combustion GLB cousin in 2021, the EQB is now receiving a substantial update to keep it in sync with the evolving landscape of electric mobility.
This recent overhaul follows Mercedes’ pattern of rejuvenating its electric lineup, a trend underlined by the recent revisions to the EQA. This dedication to keeping its all-electric offerings current is a precursor to an imminent shake-up within the brand, as it gears up for the introduction of new platforms and models in 2024 – including a new EV in the size category of the CLA.
The Familiar Facelift
At first glance, the facelifted EQB retains a familiar yet refreshed appearance. Unlike the bespoke electric platforms underpinning the EQE and EQS SUVs, the EQB relies on the MFA2 architecture – also supporting conventional internal-combustion vehicles like the GLB. This shared platform, set for its own facelift in 2023, has influenced the EQB’s design continuity. While the front end maintains its essence, there’s a novel faux grille design complementing the existing full-width lightbar. The rear light cluster has also been subtly reworked to harmonize with the updated façade.
Enhanced Interior and Infotainment
Step inside, and the EQB envelops occupants in a blend of modernity and sophistication. The previous physical switches on the steering wheel have given way to a state-of-the-art touch-sensitive control system, bringing the cockpit design up to speed with the latest trends. Lime-pore wood trim and the distinctive ‘Mercedes pattern’ backlighting contribute to the EQB’s refined ambiance. Drawing inspiration from the refreshed EQA, the EQB boasts the newest iteration of Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system, complete with a dual-screen setup. Accompanying this is an updated Mercedes voice assistant and improved driving assistance features, including enhanced lane-keeping assistance.
Seven-Seat Capacity and Competition
One of the EQB’s standout features, its seven-seat configuration, remains a significant selling point even with the updated version. This characteristic positions the EQB in direct rivalry with established players like the Tesla Model X and the newly unveiled Volkswagen ID.Buzz LWB, showcasing Mercedes’ ambition to cater to a diverse range of preferences and demands within the EV market.
Range and Performance
While Mercedes has revealed an impressive 39-mile extension to the EQA’s range in its 250+ variant, the exact range figures for the refreshed EQB are still under wraps. The current model already offers a maximum range of 253 miles from its 66.5kWh battery, an accomplishment that sets a strong foundation for the updated version’s capabilities.
Anticipating Pricing and Availability
As the anticipation builds for the release of the enhanced EQB, pricing details are expected to emerge soon. While specifics are yet to be announced, it’s worth noting that the starting price for the current EQB stands at £55,310 in its 300 AMG Line trim.
Mercedes’ commitment to innovation, demonstrated through the revamped EQB, reinforces its foothold in the electrified automotive realm. With its striking design continuity, technological advancements, and unwavering dedication to meeting consumer preferences, the 2023 Mercedes EQB Facelift stands as a testament to the brand’s evolution and its resolve to lead the way in the electrified future of mobility.
Reporter