Prices for the Mercedes-Benz EQC start from €79,450
Looking for an eco-SUV option to ferry the family around asks Geraldine Herbert
What is it? Based on the current GLC model the new EQC is the first of a host of electric vehicles (EVs) coming from Mercedes over the next few years that will be launched under its EQ sub-brand. And if you are wondering what EQ stands for it is “Electric Intelligence”.
Is it a looker? It’s not the most stylish EV on the market and even as an SUV the exterior design is a little staid.
What about the interior? As you’d expect from a Mercedes, the interior is luxurious and well put together, with high-quality materials, a modern infotainment system – the pioneering MBUX multimedia system. While it is classy inside it is not the roomiest SUV but there is more than enough space for people, luggage, and more.
Under the bonnet? Powering the new Mercedes EV is an 80kWh lithium-ion battery pack that gives 408hp and 765Nm of sheer pulling power. Reassuringly it also comes with permanent all-wheel-drive. The range depends on which model you opt for and starts from 375km.
What about charging? Plug it into a home charger and you can expect a full charge in around 12 hours but take it to one of the rapid charging points you can top up to 80% in just 40-minutes.
And on the road? For anyone who has yet to drive an EV, be prepared, a touch of the pedal has you accelerating into the future. On the road the EQC is smooth and silent making it a dream to drive, but it is not a light car and you really feel it on bends where it lacks the agility of rivals such as the Audi E-tron or Jaguar I-Pace.
Will it break the bank? Starting from €79,450 the ECQ is an expensive package but its a brilliant piece of technology on wheels and is ideal for those who want to go electric but don’t want to sacrifice the practicality of an SUV.
The cabin in the Mercedes-EQC has a modern and high tech feel to it
How safe is it? It is a Mercedes so you know it is packed with safety features to keep even the most nervous of drivers or passengers happy.
Anything else I need to know about the new EQC? Need to tow stuff? No problem, the EQC has a towing capacity of up to 1,800 kg but remember towing will compromise the range.
Why you will like it? The EQC offers the styling and performance to suit those looking for an environmentally-friendly, fun-to-drive and trendy SUV.
What it says about you? You want to feel less guilty about driving an SUV.
3 words to describe the Mercedes EQC; Comfortable; Smart; Guilt-free
For more information on the Mercedes-Benz, EQC check out mercedesbenz.ie the Mercedes Benz Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Geraldine Herbert
30th August 2019
RT 
