REVIEW: 2023 MERCEDES-BENZ EQB 250 - TOUGH SELL

EV Channels Review

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250 presents a mixed bag, offering a luxurious feel and quiet ride characteristic of the brand, but falling short due to significant drawbacks in charging speed and pricing. While it drives well and provides excellent visibility, its base 250 trim lacks many expected luxury features as standard, requiring costly option packages. The reviewer highlights inconsistent brake pedal feel and a less-than-ideal regenerative braking system that necessitates manual adjustment. Performance is adequate for daily driving, with an 8-second 0-60 time, but it lacks the punch of competitors. The primary criticisms revolve around its 100kW max charging speed, stemming from older 400-volt architecture, making road trips impractical compared to rivals. Furthermore, its pricing is deemed too high when cross-shopped against more compelling electric SUVs like the Volvo XC40 Recharge, Genesis GV60, and Tesla Model Y, which offer better performance, faster charging, and more standard features for a similar or lower price. Even Mercedes' own gasoline-powered GLB is presented as a better value proposition. Ultimately, the EQB 250 is described as a nice vehicle in isolation but a tough sell in the current competitive EV market.