Mercedes-Benz EQB and EQC electric SUVs previewed – est. RM330k and RM390k

Besides launching the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) took things up a notch by previewing two more models alongside said flagship electric saloon yesterday. Showcased on stage too were the Mercedes-Benz EQB and EQC electric SUVs.

EQB 350 4Matic

If you haven’t guessed it already, the EQB is similar in size and dimension as the three-point star’s combustion-engined GLB-Class seven-seat compact SUV offering. MBM is set to offer it in EQB 350 4Matic form, which packs a dual electric motor setup that outputs 215 kW (292 HP) and 520 NM.

Said dual-motor setup draws energy from a 66.5 kWh battery pack equipped on board. Charging from 10% to 80% takes just 31 minutes using a 100 kW DC fast-charger, whereas charging via 11 kW AC charging unit will require 6 hours and 15 minutes to attain a full charge from 10%.

Powering all four wheels through the brand’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, 0-100 KM/H takes just 6.2 seconds whereas top-speed is electronically governed at 160 KM/H. in terms of range, the EQB 350 4Matic promises a decent WLTP range of up to 423 KM (or 388 KM minimum).

As for features, the EQB will mirror much of what’s seen in its combustion-engined twin, namely the offer of three-row seating, navigation-equipped MBUX infotainment suite, a full swing of active and passive driver assistance systems, not forgetting premium amenities such as combination leather and fabric cabin upholstery, keyless entry and ignition, plus a wireless charging pad amongst many.

As for the exterior, the GLB 350 4Matic rolls on a set of 19-inch alloy wheels to match the distinct exterior design it boasts. Highlights of the latter include the Mercedes-Benz EQ sub-brand’s signature touches such as the grille and all-LED lighting. Also noteworthy here is the tasty ‘Rose Gold’ hue that the preview unit was dressed in.

EQC 400 4Matic

Moving up the order, MBM also previewed the EQC model in EQC 400 4Matic form. This electric twin of the GLC-Class SUV also packs a dual-motor and 4Matic all-wheel-drive setup, the former outputting higher figures of 300 kW (408 HP) and 760 NM instead.

It draws energy from a larger 80 kWh battery pack on board, taking just 40 minutes to attain an 80% charge from 10% when recharged using a 110 kW DC fast-charger. As for recharges using an 11 kW AC charger, a full charge from 10% requires 7 hours and 30 minutes.

On the performance front, things are respectable here to say the least as this EQC variant boasts a 0-100 KM/H time of 5.1 seconds and a slightly higher restricted V-max of 180 KM/H. In terms of range, the claimed WLTP figure stands art a maximum of 437 KM (or 373 KM minimum).

Like the EQB it was showcased alongside, the EQC 400 4Matic will again mirror much of what’s seen in its combustion-engined GLC-Class twin. This includes a myriad of high-tech features such as a navigation-equipped MBUX infotainment suite, a myriad of active and passive driver assistance systems.

Notably, the EQC 400 4Matic will get the AMG Line treatment too. This adds a number of sporty exterior and interior trims all around that includes 20-inch multi-spoke AMG alloy wheels, Direct Select shift paddles, Interior Light package, aluminium trimmings plus black leather upholstery.

Availability

According to MBM, pre-orders for both models are now open through authorised dealers nationwide.  Deliveries are expected to commence sometime later this year, likely within the fourth quarter onwards.

As for price, the GLB 350 4Matic and GLC 400 4Matic tentatively command RM330,000 and RM390,000 respectively. As usual, prices include MBM’s four-year, unlimited mileage warranty coverage plus an eight-year or 160,000 KM battery warranty on top of which.