The Mercedes-Benz EQB 250 69.7 kWh, introduced in February 2022 and produced through May 2022, represents a key variant within the X243 EQB model range. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the all-electric compact SUV segment, the EQB 250 aimed to provide a balance between range, performance, and practicality, appealing to families and individuals seeking an entry point into the world of electric vehicles. It’s part of Mercedes-Benz’s broader strategy to expand its EQ sub-brand, offering a diverse portfolio of battery-electric vehicles. The EQB, in general, is notable for offering optional seven-passenger seating, a relatively uncommon feature in the electric SUV class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EQB |
| Generation | EQB (X243) |
| Type (Engine) | EQB 250 69.7 kWh (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | February, 2022 |
| End of production | May, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 69.7 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 66.5 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 433-474 km (269.05 – 294.53 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 16.3-17.8 kWh/100 km (26.23 – 28.65 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 128 – 118 |
| km/kWh | 6.1 – 5.6 |
| mi/kWh | 3.8 – 3.5 |
| Electric motor power | 190 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 375 Nm (276.59 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | EM0021 |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Asynchronous |
| System power | 190 Hp |
| System torque | 375 Nm (276.59 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2520 kg (5555.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 465-495 l (16.42 – 17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1620-1710 l (57.21 – 60.39 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4684 mm (184.41 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1667 mm (65.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2829 mm (111.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 942 mm (37.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 154 mm (6.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19; 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The EQB 250 69.7 kWh utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration powered by a single asynchronous electric motor, designated EM0021. This motor delivers 190 horsepower and 375 Nm (276.59 lb.-ft.) of torque. The powertrain is built around a 69.7 kWh gross (66.5 kWh usable) lithium-ion battery pack positioned under the vehicle floor, contributing to a low center of gravity. The single-speed automatic transmission is inherent to electric vehicle design, providing seamless acceleration. The motor’s asynchronous design is known for its robustness and relatively simple construction, contributing to potential long-term reliability. The power electronics manage the flow of energy between the battery, motor, and other vehicle systems.
Driving Characteristics
The EQB 250 69.7 kWh offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 8.7 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t provide particularly sporty performance. The instant torque delivery characteristic of electric motors provides brisk acceleration at lower speeds. The single-speed transmission means there are no gear changes, resulting in smooth and linear power delivery. Compared to the EQB 300 4MATIC with its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the 250 offers less overall power and acceleration, but it also boasts improved efficiency. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EQB 250 typically came standard with features such as Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of driver-assistance systems including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was generally Artico synthetic leather, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Available options included a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and heated/ventilated front seats. The EQB’s modular interior design allowed for the option of a third-row seat, increasing seating capacity to seven, although this reduced cargo space. Trim levels often included progressive and premium packages adding more luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The EQB 250 features an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are included at both ends to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The EQB utilizes electric power steering, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The EQB 250 was generally well-received by critics as a practical and well-equipped electric SUV. Its relatively affordable price point, combined with its spacious interior and available seven-passenger seating, made it an attractive option for families. However, some reviewers noted that its acceleration was not as brisk as some competitors, and its range was somewhat limited compared to other electric SUVs in its class. Compared to the EQB 300 4MATIC, the 250 offered a more affordable entry point but sacrificed some performance and all-weather capability. Fuel economy, expressed as MPGe, ranged from 118-128, depending on driving conditions.
Legacy
The EQB 250 69.7 kWh represents an important step in Mercedes-Benz’s electrification strategy. While early production runs were limited, the EQB has established itself as a competitive offering in the compact electric SUV segment. The powertrain’s reliability appears to be generally good, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, the EQB 250 offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle. Its relatively simple electric powertrain and robust construction suggest that it should provide years of reliable service with proper maintenance.
