SPIN back in time to the 2016 Paris Motor Show (no, I wasn’t there either) when Mercedes‑Benz first presented its new product and technology brand for ‘electromobility’.
The birth of the EQC, which arrived a little later in mid 2019.
Mercedes described it as trailblazing at the time, ands waxed lyrical over its features: “Both inside and out, the EQC embodies the design idiom of Progressive Luxury. This arises from the combination of beauty, the conscious clash of digital and analogue elements as well as the seamless merging of intuitive and physical design.” Their words, most definitely not mine.
The EQC is the first fully-electric vehicle from Mercedes-Benz’s new EQ brand. It is powered by an 80 kWh lithium-ion and has an output of 408hp and 765Nm of torque. It can hit 62mph in 5.1 seconds and has a top speed of 111mph.
Impressive figures. Its two electric motors at the front and rear axles have a combined output of 300 kW. A ‘sophisticated operating strategy’ that gives it an electric range of up to 255 miles. But then again, that sophistication depends pretty much on the person behind the wheel for maximum effect.
Super smooth, whether it be acceleration, braking, steering or all round road performance – the EQC does it with a level of composure that is commendable.
For a big car (though it’s only their mid size offering in the sector) it feels potently quick although it’s no hot hatch rival. The accent here is very much of comfort and refinement, as well as living up to M-B’s upmarket reputation.
But behind the wheel the most obvious quality comes to the fore when you first prod the accelerator – instant momentum, all 760Nm of torque propelling you forward, even though EQC weighs in the order of two and a half tonnes.
Inside, the cabin of the EQC is has a familiar look, if you’ve ever taken a close shufty inside a GLC. The dual-screen infotainment and digital dial displays, as well as the centre console and switchgear come across from that vehicle.
That makes it feel a bit behind the times when compared to the electric SUV competition, though there’s no shortage of information available to you behind the wheel.
The cockpit has some redesigned air-vents, copper-coloured accents and a panel of louvred lines running behind the dash, but not a lot else.
Externally there are big side steps along the sills in AMG Line trim which might not be to everyone’s liking. It’s a big beast, but not that difficult to get into, so the way the running boards stick out hampers your ease of entry. Do they spoil its otherwise unashamedly good looks? You decide.
It certainly isn’t cheap at north of £70,000, but there’s enough quality, technology and kit to help justify the EQC’s price tag.
Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 4MATIC Premium
Price: £72,360 (£74,740 as tested)
Engine: 80kWh lithium-ion high voltage battery
Power: 402bhp
Torque: 560lb/ft
Transmission: single speed automatic
Top speed: 112mph
0-62mph: 5.1 seconds
Range: 242-255 miles
CO2 emissions: 0g/km
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