Mercedes EQC review
A decent all-round premium electric SUV, the Mercedes EQC has become overshadowed by more up-to-date arrivals in the class
Pros
- Supremely quiet and comfortable
- Striking interior styling
- High-tech infotainment
Cons
- Jaguar I-Pace handles better
- Audi e-tron is more practical
- Divisive styling
|
Car type |
Electric range |
Wallbox charge time |
Rapid charge time |
|
Electric |
254 miles |
12hrs 45mins (0-100%, 7.4kW) |
40mins (10-80%, 110kW) |
Mercedes EQC verdict
It’s amazing how quickly things progress; in just a few years the Mercedes EQC has gone from technological EV flagship to compromised also-ran. It’s still supremely quiet and comfortable, and the in-car tech is extensive and easy to use, but it feels heavy and isn’t particularly efficient. Newer rivals with more range make greater sense in the current market.
Range details, specs and alternatives
The Mercedes EQC is a large, luxurious electric SUV that kicked off a wave of new electric models from the German brand. It has a number of strong rivals, including the recently-updated Audi Q8 e-tron, as well as the Tesla Model X, Jaguar I-Pace and BMW iX, plus the new Polestar 3 that’s arriving later this year. The EQC is one SUV not really designed for off-road adventures, but instead refined and comfortable transport with no tailpipe emissions.
Unlike its rivals, which offer multiple battery and motor combinations, the EQC is only available with one powertrain layout. Every car comes with a pair of electric motors – one driving each axle for a combined 402bhp – plus an 80kWh battery good for an official driving range of 254 miles in ideal conditions. Unfortunately, while the range isn’t that impressive, neither are the EQC’s rapid charging speeds; a 110kW maximum (10-80% in 40 minutes) is somewhat off the pace these days.
In terms of specs, there are a few options to choose from. As of July 2022, the entry-level Sport version has been dropped, with the range now starting with popular AMG Line trim. This model gets 20-inch wheels, self-levelling air suspension, front and rear LED lights, keyless go, heated seats and Merc’s dual-screen infotainment system. Prices start from just under £75,000 – a good chunk more than the recently revised Audi Q8 e-tron.
Moving up through the range there are the familiar AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus trims – each seen as individual specs rather than option packs. Frustratingly, you’ll need to step up to the mid-range trim (roughly an extra £4,500) to get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, despite this tech being standard on many sub-£20k superminis.
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