Mercedes-Benz Launches EQA 250+ in India: A Comprehensive Drive Review

Mercedes-Benz Written by Updated: Jul 11, 2024, 7:45 pm
Mercedes-Benz Launches EQA 250+ in India: A Comprehensive Drive Review

Mercedes-Benz Launches EQA 250+ in India: A Comprehensive Drive Review

Mercedes-Benz has expanded its electric vehicle (EV) lineup in India with the introduction of the EQA 250+, the fourth EV in its portfolio. Priced at Rs 66 lakh, the EQA 250+ is the most affordable model in Mercedes-Benz’s EV lineup, joining the EQS, EQB, and EQE. This compact SUV has garnered significant attention as the company’s best-selling battery electric vehicle (BEV) globally.

Design and Interiors

The EQA 250+ is based on the GLA, retaining the compact SUV’s design while incorporating distinct updates to suit its EV identity. The front grille has been replaced by an enclosed black panel adorned with metal-brushed three-pointed star emblems, signifying its electric nature. The vehicle features new 19-inch AMG alloy wheels and connected LED tail lamps, adding to its modern aesthetic.

Available in seven colour options—Mountain Grey Magno, Patagonia Red, Spectral Blue, Polar White, High-tech Silver, Cosmos Black, and Mountain Grey—the EQA offers plenty of choices for personalization. Inside, the upholstery is made from Artico man-made leather and fabric crafted from recycled PET bottles, emphasizing sustainability. The dashboard sports a star pattern with an option of 64 ambient lighting colours, creating a sophisticated and customizable cabin environment. Iconic turbine-shaped air conditioning vents in rose gold add a touch of elegance.

The EQA is equipped with a powerful 12-speaker 710W Burmester sound system featuring Dolby Atmos. A head-up display provides navigation directions, speed, speed limits, and cruise control information. The cabin also includes twin 10.25-inch displays, seven airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), and several advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features.

Power and Range

The EQA 250+ is powered by a single motor mounted on the front axle, making it a front-wheel-drive vehicle. It houses a 70.5 kWh battery pack, delivering an output of 188 bhp and 385 Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz claims a range of 497 km to 560 km (WLTP), which helps alleviate range anxiety for potential buyers. The EQA 250+ can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and has a top speed of 160 km/h.

Charging the EQA is efficient and convenient. Using a 100 kW DC fast charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes, offering approximately 400 km of range. For home charging, the standard 10 kW AC charger takes 7 hours and 15 minutes to fully charge the battery, making overnight charging a practical option.

Price and Competition

At Rs 66 lakh, the Mercedes-Benz EQA 250+ positions itself competitively against rivals such as the Volvo XC40 Recharge, BMW iX1, and even the Kia EV6. Its blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability makes it an appealing choice for those looking to enter the premium EV market.

The Mercedes-Benz EQA 250+ combines stylish design, advanced technology, and practical range, making it a formidable contender in the growing electric vehicle segment in India. With its competitive pricing and robust feature set, it is well-poised to attract a significant share of the market.