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Mercedes-Benz EQC

5.1 Seconds from 0 to 100 km/h

As I often say, I’m not one to get hung up on technical specs—they’re easy to find on any car dealer’s site. Instead, I focus on the design, comfort, and sound of the car. Right off the bat, I’ll say that the EQC delivers on all three fronts. It looks stylish, offers a luxurious feel, and provides a solid driving experience. The sound is pleasantly quiet, with only a slight hum during acceleration, and that acceleration is impressive for this 2.5-ton SUV. At 5.1 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, it’s fast enough to feel thrilling on the road, without the need for ultra-high speeds. Surprisingly, having a car that accelerates quickly actually reduces the urge to speed—you’re already moving effortlessly, and that’s a satisfying experience in itself.

Self-Driving Capability and Visibility

One feature I test in every new car is its self-driving assistance. The EQC performs well, but mainly in daylight with clear road markings. In darker conditions or on unmarked roads, it struggles. This could be partly due to EU regulations that require hands on the wheel, or it may just be a feature needing refinement. Another minor drawback is the high door sill, which affects my view since I usually sit low. However, after a 500 km drive, I had already adjusted and it no longer bothered me.

Interior Design and Comfort

While Mercedes’ newer electric models are built on new platforms, the EQC is essentially a modified GLC, meaning it still has a driveshaft tunnel and lacks a flat floor. If you’ve read my reviews before, you know I appreciate a flat floor for the extra space it provides. While the center console in this car is fairly prominent, it does add to the solid, elegant Mercedes interior. The cabin feels spacious, offering ample room in the back, and the 500-liter trunk has plenty of space.

Mercedes-Benz EQC in Alexela charging station

Premium Navigation and Charging Features

The navigation system in the EQC offers a charging calculation feature, enabling it to map the quickest route based on charging needs—a useful tool for EV drivers. One downside is the lack of usable space under the hood; Mercedes has stuck with a traditional setup, so there’s no room for storing cables or other items.

This car isn’t designed for high-speed cornering, but if you want comfort and smoothness, it’s perfect for everyday errands and longer trips. The regenerative braking is another plus, allowing for a “one-pedal” driving experience that’s intuitive and enjoyable.

Real-World Range

The EQC’s battery capacity is 85 kWh, with 80 kWh usable. Although the manufacturer claims a range of over 400 km, I found it closer to 320 km, given that I typically charge up to only 80%. This 300+ km range is more than adequate for longer trips. The EQC charges at home at up to 7.4 kW on a single phase, while fast chargers can deliver up to 112 kW, reaching 80% in about 30 minutes.

All-wheel drive is a must-have

The model I tested was an all-wheel drive, which, for me, is the only viable option given our northern climate. AWD is practical and safer in various weather conditions. I also prefer the charging port on the rear of the car, where traditional fuel caps are usually found—it just feels more intuitive for refueling.

Mercedes EQC: A Top Choice for Electric Driving

By 2021, electric vehicles can match or even exceed traditional cars in most respects. Almost every major automaker has fully electric models in their lineup, and they’re becoming increasingly available worldwide. As of today, the Mercedes EQC is high on my list of electric vehicles. While the starting price—around €73,000—is steep, a longer drive with the EQC shows what that investment truly delivers.