The more time you spend with any vehicle, the more you learn about its positive aspects and sometimes its quirks. We have had the opportunity to spend some extended time with the Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 in the AMG Line guise. After roughly one month and around 3 000 km, here is what we experienced on our daily, weekly, and weekend commutes.
Related: Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 - Quick Video Review
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T Drive
Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 AMG Line Recap
The Mercedes-Benz EQA is the entry point to the German automaker's electric line-up. Based on the combustion-powered GLA-Class, there are minimal changes; however, they are very noticeable from a design point of view. Behind the updated front fascia, which doesn't offer a grille but a glossy black trim piece adorned with a large emblem and chrome strips, now sits an electric motor instead of a diesel or petrol configuration.
This configuration sends 140kW and 385Nm of torque to our test unit's optional 20-inch alloy AMG front wheels. This is enough to propel the model from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and to a top speed of 160 km/h. The motor receives its power from a 69.7 kWh battery, which provides a claimed range of between 402 and 429 km.
While the exterior, with its LED lightbars at the front and rear and distinctive headlamp and taillamp clusters, provides a unique design in this crossover segment, the interior is very similar to that of the GLA-Class stablemate. Where some difference comes in are the leather seats instead of the Alcantara found in the AMG Line GLA and the inclusion of the touchpad to control the 10.25-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system.
Similar to the GLA, the two touch buttons feature on the steering wheel on the left controls the infotainment system, while the right controls the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Our test unit also comes fitted with the optional Advanced Plus Package. This R40 400 option incorporates the Keyless-Go Comfort Package, climate control, an advanced sound system, and a wireless charging system in front. Additionally, the EQA 250 comes with the Advanced Package at no additional cost, which includes the Parking Package, Mirror Package, Blind Sport Assist, and all-digital instrument displays.
Performance
Dislikes
While the Mercedes-Benz EQA has been admirable in its daily duties, this reviewer has picked up a few things during the first 3 000 km. Here are some of the dislikes.
- Black trim—Inside the EQA 250 in AMG Line trim, there are gloss black trim pieces around the air vents on the dashboard and centre console. This black trim very quickly collects dust and fingerprints. We recommend you choose an alternative trim so that the dust and fingerprints aren't as noticeable.
- Interior creak - When navigating uneven surfaces slowly, some interior pieces creak, and the body flexes.
- Speaker rattle—When playing a bass or treble-heavy track with a volume of just over 50%, the front passenger door trim rattles.
- Electric Intelligence—In Europe and the US markets, Mercedes-Benz EQ models come installed with Electric Intelligence, which works with the onboard navigation system. This system will automatically add charging points on your route based on the vehicle's current charge and discharge limits set by the vehicle owner. However, this feature is not yet available in South Africa, but it could give owners peace of mind during trips.
- Wired Smartphone Integration—As alluded to earlier, our test unit comes fitted with the Advanced Plus Package, which includes a wireless charge bay. This wireless charger, however, doesn't get used much because to gain access to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, your phone needs to be connected via a USB-C cable, making the wireless charge pad a little pointless.
Space and Comfort
Likes
It's not all bad, though. The Mercedes-Benz EQA has several redeeming qualities, which you learn to appreciate the longer you drive it.
- Electric consumption—The EQA 250 has various drive modes, including an ECO mode, which limits the top speed to 130 km/h and reduces energy consumption. This means that owners can achieve as little as 11.1 kWh / 100 km with little concentration and discipline, resulting in a range further than claimed. Even when pushing on slightly, achieving the claimed average consumption of 16.9-15.4 kWh / 100 km is possible.
- Fast charging - The EQA 250 will fast charge with a capable DC charger at a rate of up to 100 kW, although we have achieved an impressive 89.8 kW. This is due to the 400V architecture. This means you don't have to wait too long for your battery to be topped up.
- Comfortable ride - The EQA's suspension tuning is good, making even rough road surfaces smooth and slick.
- Power—The single motor has plenty of grunt. With much torque on offer, overtaking and faster acceleration are effortless.
- Easy access—The keyless entry system is simple to understand and has yet to force me to take the key fob out of my pocket.
- Physical buttons - Unlike many modern cars, the EQA 250 retains many physical buttons directly linked to specific features such as navigation. This makes using the MBUX and climate control systems easier and more intuitive.
- Styling—While styling is indeed subjective, it sure does turn heads on the road and in the parking lot, and the proportions and design are very good, in this writer's opinion.
Safety
Wrap up
We still have just over a month to go with the Mercedes-Benz EQA 250, and we are excited to learn more about the model and its behaviours. But it is this writer's opinion that the mark of a good electric vehicle does not affect how you look at your commutes or journeys from the point of view of range or "refuelling". And travelling just over an average of 150 km per day, the EQA 250 has already proved its range and utility to be more than ample for a daily commuter.
Fuel Consumption
Price
The Verdict
