Trailblazing SUV coming to NZ

Mercedes-Benz is preparing for the New Zealand arrival of its new all-electric compact model, the EQA 250 SUV. 

The model is due to appear in showrooms from June 2021 and comes as Mercedes-Benz expands its portfolio of all-electric and mild hybrid vehicles. 

It boasts a driving range of up to 480km and can be recharged at home via a Mercedes-Benz Wallbox or a standard 240-volt wall plug. 

A 10-80 per cent charge via the wallbox takes about four hours and 15 minutes. The same charge at a rapid charger takes about 30 minutes through a DC connection with a 100kW supply.

The EQA 250 SUV is powered by an asynchronous electric motor at the front axle with a rated output of 140kW and 375Nm. 

Its power comes from a “double-decker” 420-volt lithium-ion battery with five modules and 200 cells, creating usable energy content of 66.5kWh and combined electrical consumption of 16.2kWh per 100km. 

The battery is part of an intelligent thermal management system, which can be cooled or heated as required via a coolant-fed plate underneath the battery. 

Britta Seeger, board member responsible for Mercedes-Benz cars marketing and sales, says: “With this car, for the first time we are offering our customers an all-electric Mercedes in the compact segment with an extensive range that ensures its viability in everyday use.

“As such, the new EQA is an important vehicle along our path towards the electrification of all our vehicle segments.”

Key features

The EQA features a black panel grille, a horizontal fibre-optic strip connects the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlights, and blue colour highlights within the headlight reinforce the signature EQ brand appearance.

It has adjustable damping suspension with multi-link rear, a direct steer system and dynamic select driving-mode selection, and rides on 19-inch AMG 5-twin spoke light-alloy wheels. 

Inside, the new SUV is equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, including voice control and a 10.25-inch centre touchscreen that is the hub for functions such as navigation, media playback, telephony and vehicle functionality. A second 10.25-inch screen forms a customisable digital instrument cluster for the driver. 

Other functions include keyless entry and start, a powered tailgate with handsfree access, smartphone integration, heated and electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, and automatic climate control.

Among the standard safety features are active distance assist cruise control with automatic restart, route-based speed adaptation, and a range of active assists including steering, braking, lane keeping and blind-spot monitoring. 

A parking package, reversing camera, and nine airbags also help improve safety for all occupants.

Limited package

The EQA 250 can be specified with an exclusive Edition 1 package, which includes additional features and cosmetic enhancements, for a limited time. 

Highlights of the package include 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels finished in matt copper, AMG Line exterior trim and further gloss-black details, Neva grey leather and Cyber Cut blue upholstery, a sports multifunction steering wheel, and a unique vehicle key with copper-coloured surround. 

Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 starts at $85,500, with the Edition 1 package costing an extra $7,300.