Overview

Should you buy a Mercedes-Benz EQA?

On rational grounds, probably not. A Skoda Enyaq is roomier, rides better and costs less. However, that car lacks the premium kudos that the Mercedes-Benz enjoys – and that’s where the similarly-priced Audi Q4 E-Tron comes in. Compared with that, we’d take the more capable Audi.

However, the EQA is a very pleasant electric SUV that you could do worse than choosing if you’re after a relaxing, cosseting and refined ownership experience. It might have predictable styling and won’t win any races against a BMW iX3 or Volvo EX40, but it has plenty of appeal, and it plays to the strengths that modern Mercedes-Benz models enjoy, namely an easy-to-use, but advanced interior and calm overall demeanour.

Mercedes-Benz has delivered a competent EV for those looking for a daily drive without dramas. But if you want a family-sized electric Mercedes-Benz SUV, we recommend paying a little more and going for the larger and more capable EQB.

What’s new?

Mercedes-Benz’s line-up of EQ-badged all-electric cars is evolving quickly, with the model line-up growing to rival that of its petrol and diesel models. The EQA is the smallest model in the range – and with a series of updates in 2024, it is just about managing to stay on the pace of newer rivals.

Design-wise, it’s what you’ve come to expect from a small Mercedes-Benz SUV – smooth, creaseless configuration outside and an MBUX-equipped dashboard and screen-heavy infotainment set-up on the inside. Not much has changed for 2024, with new graphics for the panel between the front lights, updated MBUX infotainment and some improvements to the overall efficiency.

The EQA is a typical premium offering, boasting the latest tech in a compact package that closely rivals the BMW iX1, Volvo EX40, Audi Q4 E-Tron, Genesis GV60 and Lexus UX 300e. Like three of those cars (but not the Audi and Genesis), it’s based on an existing petrol car, in this case the GLA SUV.

Mercedes-Benz brought the EQA to market quite quickly, thanks to the fact that it shares a proven mechanical package with the likes of the A-Class, CLA, GLA and GLB, which brings economy of scale to its maker, and lower prices than a more bespoke offering might.

The EQA is available in Sport Executive, AMG Line Executive, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus specifications – each offering an impressive array of safety systems. There’s a choice of the front-wheel drive 250+, 300 4Matic and 350 4Matic which both offer four-wheel drive. All models share the same 70.5kWh battery pack and maximum range is up to a claimed 345 miles for the 250.

Over the next few pages, we’ll take you right through the updated EQA, diving deep into its characteristics and its good and bad points. That includes what it’s like to drive, how nice the cabin is, how practical it is, and how much it costs to run.