WE GOT THE CHANCE TO PUT THE LATEST ALL-ELECTRIC SUV FROM MERCEDES-BENZ THROUGH ITS PACES.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4MATIC is a mid-size SUV that’s been brought into the electric age. It is the highly anticipated fully electric addition to the Mercedes-EQ range. This latest three-pointed model is based around the brand’s popular GLB-Class chassis, but instead of the regular combustion engine it has been modified to accommodate a dual-electric motor architecture. The vehicle is a durable and practical SUV that combines powerful proportions with compact dimensions and is very much capable of providing a generous amount of space for up to five occupants and in some cases seven, with an optional third row.
This month, the OHLALA team had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the new Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4MATIC, thanks to the wonderful team at Al Haddad Motors.
EXTERIOR
The EQB 350 has a modern design that’s certain to grab attention, it sure did get ours! The model somehow manages to interpret Mercedes-EQ’s progressive luxury in an edgy and particularly characterful way. On first look, the EQB 350 has a striking but straightforward styling with its boxy silhouette and high roofline. The front grille is blank with a gloss black finish and showcases the characteristic Mercedes-Benz star bang in the middle. Full width LED lighting elements accent the vehicle’s front end. While the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlamps, ensure a high level of recognisability both in daylight and at night.
The confident presence of the model continues at the flanks with its sleek yet considered lines running from tip to trunk. Moreover, the 19-inch, five-spoke light alloy wheels give the EQB 350 a powerful stance on the road. As a further distinctive design feature, the squarer rear bumper’s LED tail-light assembly merges seamlessly into the tapering LED light strip across the width of the tailgate. A standard-fit reversing camera has been integrated into the automatically pivoting Mercedes-Benz star at the back.
INTERIOR
As we step inside the vehicle, the interior of the EQB 350 is full of highquality materials and exhibits luxury-level build quality with excellent leather and soft-touch fabrics. The cabin is exquisitely designed with ambient lighting, there’re 64 colours to choose from, and well-appointed with elegant metallic accents that lend an upscale look to the space. The model’s steering column is four-way manually adjustable to help find an ideal driving position and view of the instruments. Moreover, as a surprising departure from the usual, the gear selector is situated beside the sturdy flat-bottom steering wheel.
The front seats are power adjustable and provide four-way power lumbar support which we really liked. A memory system for each of the front seats recalls three stored positions with the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the roomy three-passenger second row seats include a centre armrest with built-in cupholders.
“The model’s dual-zone automatic climate control comes with a dust and pollen filter that helps keep particles as small as five microns from entering the cabin.”
The model’s dual-zone automatic climate control comes with a dust and pollen filter that helps keep particles as small as five microns from entering the cabin. It has five adjustable vents in the dash and a pair of rear-cabin air vents to help maintain an optimal temperature for everyone.
Owing to its boxy shape there is ample headroom and legroom within the cabin. While the large panoramic sunroof further enhances the roominess of the cabin’s space. Additionally, the second-row seats conveniently fold down in a 40/20/40 split, offering a variety of cargo and passenger configurations.
INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY
The EQB 350 features Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system consisting of a touchscreen, touch-sensitive control pad and voice recognition. Modern and vibrant in appearance, the MBUX tech interface is packed with customisation features that took us a little getting used to but, once learnt, it proved simple to use. Two screens composed of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system are integrated into a single wide screen that is central to experiencing the MBUX interface in the best way, and it looks great! A large touchpad controller in the centre console in place of the gear shifter let us operate the in-dash central touchscreen while we let our hand rest comfortably at our side, a feature we found quite handy. A total of four ports are provided in the first and second seating rows. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available and let us enjoy a variety of audio, entertainment and communication apps via an interface. Additionally, the EQB’s Advanced Sound System gave a rich and clear sound which we thoroughly enjoyed.
POWER & PERFORMANCE
After exploring and getting better acquainted with the luxury, technology and everything else the model had to offer, we were raring to see what the EQB’s performance would be like once on the road. The EQB 350 4MATIC is equipped with an advanced battery system that uses a 70.5kWh battery located under the floor. It provides a range of up to 426km on a single charge. The model also has a fast-charging capability, which means you can charge the battery up to 80% in just 30 minutes, absolutely amazing! This all-electric vehicle certainly impressed us during our drive. It is capable of generating 288hp with 520Nm of torque, which translates to a surprisingly quick top speed of six seconds to get from 0-60km/h, and we experienced an impressive level of performance. As we tested out the three other available modes, the Sport Mode especially stood out and left us thrilled with the model’s handling and power when pushed, though it will drain the battery a bit sooner.
SAFETY & ASSISTANCE
The team at Mercedes-Benz have made sure to fit the EQB with an advanced range of safety and driver assistance capabilities. Some of the standard features include active brake assist, active blind spot assist, adaptive high beam assist, parking assistant with cross traffic assist, along with several airbags located throughout the vehicle and much more.
OUR VERDICT
The EQB 350 is the perfect combination of style and sustainability. On road the EQB is composed and smooth offering a highly stable and comfortable ride. The model’s advanced technology and sustainability features in our opinion surely make it a top choice for those who are environmentally conscious and also value luxury.
For more information or to book a test drive of your own,
please call Al Haddad Motors on 1778 5454.
@alhaddadmotors