The Mercedes-Benz EQB may not be the best choice for those looking to buy a new electric car. (Yes, it is still in production.) The base model 2024 EQB 250+ starts at $53,050, featuring a front-wheel-drive setup and a range of 251 miles, which is only average. If you prefer a dual-motor version with better options, expect the price to exceed $60,000 easily. However, while the Mercedes-Benz EQB is far from a poor vehicle, its new price is quite steep. A more budget-friendly option could be a used model, which is much more accessible financially.
Currently, numerous used EQBs are available for under $30,000, with some having only a few thousand miles on the clock. This represents a significant reduction of approximately $25,000 from the original prices that started around $55,000. Notably, some of these vehicles have not been registered for a full year, meaning they may still come with three years of the original warranty.
Depreciation has impacted the EQB significantly, mainly due to its less-than-stellar specifications compared to its high price. Additionally, Hertz is selling off a number of previous rental models.
Although some buyers might hesitate about purchasing a former rental vehicle, the combination of low prices and extensive remaining warranties is certainly appealing.
For example, a 2023 EQB 250+ is currently listed for $29,900. While previously a rental, it was registered in October 2023 and has just 5,200 miles on it. As per the CarFax report, it still has 37 months or 44,800 miles left under the basic warranty. Assuming no additional options were included (which is common with Hertz cars), this vehicle has already depreciated by 44.5%. While this is unfortunate for the first owner, it represents a fantastic opportunity for the used car buyer.
If you prefer not to purchase an ex-rental, there are still excellent alternatives available. For example, a California-based Mercedes-Benz dealer recently featured a Certified Pre-Owned 2022 EQB 350 4MATIC for $30,999. This model has only 8,600 miles and comes with 44 months of unlimited mileage bumper-to-bumper warranty due to the CPO coverage. This essentially provides a second buyer with a savings of 48.5% compared to the original MSRP of $60,200.
Given these prices, used EQBs are undoubtedly the most economical option. But is it advisable to purchase one? And if so, what should you think about?
Mercedes-Benz EQB: Technical Specifications
The EQB debuted in the U.S. market as a 2022 model. This electric crossover utilizes the MFA platform, compatible with both electric and combustion engine vehicles. The same platform also powers the EQA, which is only available internationally. For those in North America seeking the most affordable Mercedes electric vehicle, the EQB fits the bill.
The EQB measures 184.4 inches in length, similar to the Kia EV6, which is 184.3 inches long. It includes a 70.5 kWh battery pack, of which 66.5 kWh is usable. This setup provides a range of 245 miles for front-wheel-drive variants and between 221 to 232 miles for all-wheel-drive configurations. The range has slightly improved for the 2024 model year for front-wheel-drive options, though it’s decreased to 205 for the EQB 300 and 207 for the EQB 350, respectively.
The EQB’s battery can handle charging at a maximum of 100 kW on a DC fast charger. Although not particularly impressive, its performance is commendable, thanks to a flat charging curve. An independent test suggests an average of 93.8 kW charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity. Interestingly, a Tesla Model Y Long Range, with a peak of 250 kW, averaged only 99.1 kW from a similar test. Thus, the EQB’s peak rating could be considered conservative.
However, the EQB does have a considerable weight. The base model EQB 250+ weighs 4,497 pounds, a considerable weight for an electric vehicle of its size. The EQB 300 comes in at 4,630 pounds, and the EQB 350 weighs 4,718 pounds. In comparison, the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD weighs 4,398 pounds, lighter than the front-wheel-drive EQB. Not only does the Model Y offer a larger battery with increased range, but it also provides greater speed and space.
Trims and Features
All 2023 EQB models come in three available trims: Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle. The Premium trim is standard and presents a good range of features, such as remote cabin preconditioning, power-folding mirrors, ambient lighting, aluminum roof rails, a leather steering wheel, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a power tailgate. Basic safety features include blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking; however, advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centering are available at an additional cost.
The Exclusive upgrade, available for $1,250, adds a 10-speaker, 225-watt Advanced Sound System, hands-free tailgate opening, and wireless phone charging. The Pinnacle package, priced at $3,800, includes everything in the Exclusive trim plus a 12-speaker, 590-watt Burmester sound system, a sunroof, and a surround-view camera. Buyers can also opt for a $1,250 option to add third-row seating, making the EQB the smallest three-row electric crossover on the market.
For features like heated seats and adaptive cruise control, buyers will need to pay extra. When exploring used models, it’s advisable to check the vehicle’s original window sticker to ensure all desired options are included.
For the 2024 model year, Mercedes has streamlined the options by eliminating all trims except for the Pinnacle with a reduced upgrade cost of $2,800, while the sunroof is now sold separately for $1,500.
If you prefer a wider range of features, consider seeking 2022 model years, which were only offered in Exclusive or Pinnacle trims. The majority of ex-rental vehicles currently available are base Premium models, lacking the added features of their higher-spec counterparts.
2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB 300 4MATIC in European specification
Concerns to Consider
As a relatively new model, the EQB has faced a few reported problems. Some owners have mentioned issues with the coolant system monitor and the vehicle sometimes displaying fault codes, such as “high voltage battery malfunction.”
In summary, while the vehicle is newer and backed by a manufacturer that isn’t widely recognized for reliability, prospective buyers might prefer a more established option like the Tesla Model Y for peace of mind.
However, with three years of warranty coverage, there is some reassurance for those willing to take a chance.
Should I Buy One?
The market for used Mercedes EQBs has already seen significant price drops. Compared to their new counterparts, opting for a used EQB is decidedly the smarter choice. Yet, it’s uncertain how much further these vehicles might depreciate. For instance, once six-figure EQS models can now be found for priced around $45,000.
Additionally, used EQBs aren’t the only appealing options available. Notably, the Volvo C40 Recharge is often sold at a lower price than the EQB on the secondhand market. Although it offers a slightly lower charging capability, it outperforms the EQB in other areas and features a more distinct design.
2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 Exterior
There are also various other good used electric crossovers in a similar price range, including the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E, all having seen significant price reductions.
For buyers desiring the prestige that comes with the Mercedes name, the EQB presents a reasonable option. Priced around $30,000, it aligns with the cost of a new base model Ford Bronco Sport. You can still enjoy decent range, reliable charging, and an attractive interior, and you won’t be the one to incur a $25,000 loss in the first year.
Andrew Lambrecht is a contributor at InsideEVs and an industrial engineering student at Clemson University. Along with writing for InsideEVs, he contributes to Forbes Wheels and Business Insider, focusing on the transportation industry.
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