“Electric now has a Mercedes” as brand launches landmark new EQC

Published on 27 August, 2019

Impressive new EQC will be first in a wide range of electric vehicles for the brand

Overview

Overview

Mercedes are the latest luxury marque to enter the electric race with the launch of their new EQC. The stylish crossover is the first offering from the brand's much anticipated new EQ range with 10 more fully electric models expected to follow before 2022.

The family-sized SUV will compete against Audi’s E-Tron and the Jaguar I-PACE with an 80 kWh battery that makes it capable of up to 417km on a single charge. The permanent all-wheel drive system is powered by two electric motors with a combined power output of 300kW (408hp) and 765Nm, helping it to achieve 0 – 100kmph in just 5.1 seconds.

It also manages to undercut its premium rivals with a starting price of €89,450, and a further €10,000 reduction available under current Government incentives.

Similar in size to the popular GLC, it boasts a useful 500 litre boot capacity and enough space for two adults or three children in the back. The interior follows the same classic yet extremely high-tech template of the latest Mercedes cabins with many luxurious comfort features and a reassuringly premium finish. An exclusive rose gold trim along the air vents serves to differentiate the EQ models from the rest of the range from the inside.

All models will benefit from the impressive new MBUX infotainment and sophisticated ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control systems, as well as a drive mode selector and a raft of driver assisting safety features. Various AMG line packs are available to enhance exterior styling and interior comfort as well as a special limited edition ‘1886’ model of which just ten will be released to the Irish market.

The lithium iron battery is capable of taking on up to 110kWh/h at a rapid charging station and comes with a manufacturer-backed 8 year warranty. A bespoke Mercedes-Benz branded home charging system is also available. The EQC will be sold from a selected number of retailers nationwide with further roll out of the electric range across all dealerships expected over the coming years.

Stay tuned for a full video review and test drive coming soon to CarsIreland.ie

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Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives