As a way to perceive the value-offering enhancement tried by the model and extra importantly to know what it feels prefer to stay with a luxurious EV, we drove the EQB 350 for practically three weeks. An extended driving length allowed us to raised perceive the product enhancements together with the restrictions of an EV and this is what we thought.
Whereas enhanced energy is the important thing differentiator between the 300 and 350, there are some minor exterior adjustments too. Past the plain change of the 350 badging, the principle change exterior is the addition of newly-designed 18-inch alloy wheels.
Mercedes-Benz EQB long-term evaluation 350: Life with a luxurious EV defined
Contained in the cabin too issues stay the identical because the EQB 300 and that is not a foul factor in any respect. The EQB boasts of a spacious and well-appointed cabin that appears plush and fashionable. The twin-screen setup on the entrance merges the infotainment touchscreen and the instrument cluster in a clear and spectacular method that one would anticipate from the Germans. Materials high quality contained in the cabin is sweet by phase requirements and the seats in entrance and middle-row supply good house and luxury.
The third-row of seats is one massive differentiator for the EQB in the case of electrical SUVs and fortunately the seats are first rate by way of usability. Sure, they don’t seem to be snug for adults to be hauled for lengthy drives however brief drives for adults and longer drives for youths ought to be wonderful. Additionally, entry to and from the third-row is pretty straightforward, including to the comfort. Additionally, we should point out that with the ambient lighting, the EQB cabin appears to be like like a lounge at nighttime. Prefer it or not depends upon private selection. We fairly appreciated it.
Efficiency
Now let’s talk about the important thing improve and that is within the efficiency division. Surprisingly, the battery measurement for the 350 is similar as 300 at 66.5 kWh however the motor configuration has been up to date to develop extra energy. Therefore, the output is now rated at 288 hp as an alternative of the sooner 225 whereas torque has additionally received an enormous bump from 390 Nm to 520 Nm.
On the street, the distinction in energy is rapidly and simply perceivable because the EQB 350 launches itself into the horizon when prompted with the appropriate foot. For a three-row individuals mover, the EQB 350 could be surprisingly fast for these not used to such torque.
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With the elevated energy, it is pure to anticipate a drop in vary however we are able to verify that in common metropolis driving circumstances one can nonetheless anticipate a 350 km plus vary, which is not very totally different from the 300. There may be a minor drop in vary with the 350 however that may be extra all the way down to the 350 being pushed with a heavier proper foot to benefit from the sturdy torque wave that may put a smile in your face. Now that is one thing only a few three-row SUVs can boast of.
The Dwelling Half
Now that is the largest change for anybody shifting to an EV from an ICE automobile. Fortunately, with the EQB 350 the adjustments are fairly minimal and a few of them are positive factors in comparison with an ICE. Throughout our check interval, the automobile frequently delivered a variety of greater than 350 km within the metropolis with regeneration set to the best mode.
Charging the EQB 350 proved to be fairly straightforward with a number of choices. With the three.3 kWh cable from my residence the automotive charged at about 5 p.c per hour. Whereas this might be a great choice to top-up the battery, dwelling with it’ll require the utilization of a wallbox charger, which you may get with the automotive. Charging the battery on a fast-charger is way faster and charging time will range relying on the velocity of the charger however will price you considerably greater than home-charging.
For instance, in Delhi, charging the automotive at residence prices roughly Rs 7 per kWh of electrical energy, against the Rs 25 per unit at a 50 kW charger. That stated, the EQB 350 with a 400 V structure helps charging at as much as 100 kW so theoretically, you may prime up your battery on highways when you have a fast espresso break.
Issues that would’ve been higher embody the brake really feel, which we discovered to be fairly disconnected. Whereas it is regular for EVs to have bizarre feeling brakes as a consequence of regeneration, those within the EQB 350 hardly provided any suggestions. Additionally, whereas the steering does weigh up effectively as velocity builds up there’s little suggestions from it. For a automobile that provides an enormous dollop of torque and good energy, having some steering suggestions would’ve resulted in a extra pleasing driving package deal however we do not see this being the important thing requirement for many EQB patrons.
Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 is certainly a greater worth proposition than the 300. In fact, it’s costlier by about Rs three lakh at Rs 77.5 lakh, ex-showroom however for the premium, the efficiency improve you get may be very spectacular. As a each day drive, the EQB 350 is a superb possibility as a result of it presents nice consolation, the practicality of a 5+2 seater with out having to accept a boring drive. IN addition, regardless of its dimensions, the SUV is simple to drive even out and in of tight spots as a consequence of good visibility from inside and high-resolution shows from the exterior cameras. Total, the Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 is a fun-to-drive individuals provider that is snug, luxurious and tremendous low cost to run and therefore an possibility that you simply can not overlook in its price-segment.
