2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB detailed: New family SUV channels inner Tesla Model X to stand out from electric crowd with seven-seat versatility

Mercedes-Benz has continued the expansion of its EQ all-electric sub-brand with the reveal of the EQB mid-size SUV, with the Tesla Model X-rivalling seven-seater expected to enter Australian showrooms next year.

Following hot on the tyres of the EQS upper-large sedan, the EQB takes the GLB mid-size SUV it’s based upon into the all-electric segment, with an EQB350 variant launching ahead of several others.

Much like the related EQA small SUV’s 140kW EQA250 launch variant, the EQB350 has a 66.5kWh battery and a front-mounted electric motor, but it also features a rear-mounted unit for 4Matic all-wheel drive and a system power output of 215kW.

The EQB350’s driving range (WLTP) is 419km, which is 7km shy of what the EQA250 manages. It supports 11kW AC charging and 100kW DC fast-charging, with its battery capacity able to be increased from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as just over 30 minutes.

Elsewhere, the EQB350 continues to stay true to the EQ formula, with its front end getting a closed-off grille and integrated headlights, both of which are signatures for the all-electric sub-brand.

Unique bronze alloy wheels with a multi-spoke design are also fitted, while the rear end gets a bespoke tailgate to accommodate the horizontally linked tail-lights. And yes, the bumper below is devoid of exhaust tailpipes.

Inside, the differences between the EQB350 and equivalent GLB variants are harder to pick, although the former does get contrasting stitching and piping for its various materials plus EQ-specific functionality for the MBUX multimedia system.