Refreshed 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB Will Make You See Stars
After confirming the addition of a single-motor, front-wheel-drive variant to the EQB lineup, Mercedes-Benz Canada today announced pretty much all of the changes that are in store for the electric crossover’s sophomore year. The updated 2024 EQB will arrive in the first quarter of next year with an EQB 250 model and an all-wheel-drive model to be announced in the near future.
First, with a newly designed black panel surface featuring a star pattern (in black or chrome depending on the package) at the front, the new EQB visually catches up with its larger siblings. A light band connects the daytime running lights, while a redesigned bumper emphasizes the vehicle’s broad stance.
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Four new alloy wheels in 18-, 19- and 20-inch formats are available for 2024 along with two new paint finishes (Twilight Blue and High-tech Silver). Mercedes-Benz designers have also changed the insides of the taillights.
When you step into of the 2024 EQB, you’ll see a similar star pattern now adorning the dashboard and door panels, with some of the stars being part of the 10-colour ambient lighting system. The new-look steering wheel is certainly more elegant and features touch control panels. Three additional trim options can be specified.
Standard equipment has been expanded and all EQBs now come with the 10.25-inch centre touchscreen and the USB package. The presentation of the charging features within MBUX has been improved. Speaking of MBUX, the so-called Zero Layer interface means you don’t have to scroll through submenus or give voice commands, which is great. That being said, by activating online services in the Mercedes me app, the intelligent voice assistant becomes even more capable of dialogue and learning. Furthermore, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is now offered.
For the first time in the EQB, Sound Experiences are available in combination with the optional Burmester surround sound system. “Silver Waves” and “Vivid Flux” can be accessed at launch. “Roaring Pulse” and “Serene Breeze” will be added shortly and can be activated online as part of the Individualisation Package (optional equipment).
When it comes to driver assistance technologies, a new mono-multipurpose camera and a new backup camera enhance visibility and obstacle detection. The Driving Assistance package contains improved functions in detail. For example, Active Lane Keeping Assist now works more comfortably with steering intervention instead of ESP. What’s more, thanks to more powerful environment sensors, the parking systems can better support the driver when manoeuvring.
As mentioned up top, Mercedes-Benz will sell two models in Canada: the FWD-equipped EQB 250 (188 hp, 284 lb-ft., 394 km of range, base MSRP of $59,990) and an AWD-equipped EQB. It will likely be the same EQB 350 4MATIC we already know (288 hp, 384 lb-pi, 356 km of range) rather than the less powerful EQB 300 4MATIC available in other global markets. The company plans to make an announcement “in the near future.”
In all cases, the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery has the same capacity of 70.5 kWh and the same maximum DC charging power of 100 kW, good enough to go from 10-80 percent charge in 32 minutes.
