Mercedes-Benz EQC now $17,000 more affordable
New entry-level variant of Mercedes-Benz’s first mass-produced EV undercuts key German rivalsThe entry level to the Mercedes-Benz EQC has just become $17,000 more affordable, with the German manufacturer’s first mass-produced EV to be available with a new base model grade priced from $124,300 plus on-road costs.
The order book opens soon ahead of first deliveries late this year for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 4MATIC, which replaces the previous model of the same name that was positioned much higher at $141,400 plus ORCs.
The flagship model is now called the Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 4MATIC Sport, priced at $141,300 plus ORCs.
The lower entry-level price means the Mercedes-Benz EQC now undercuts its German EV rivals, the Audi e-tron (from $136,472) and the incoming BMW iX (from $135,900), presuming there is no movement from either competitor in the meantime.
Both EQC models are propelled by the same full-electric twin-motor powertrain (300kW/760Nm), which is fed by an 80kWh lithium-ion battery pack good for a WLTP-verified 374km range, or 430km based on ADR measurements.
The 0-100km/h acceleration time for both is claimed at 5.1 seconds.
All EQC model grades also come with a five-year subscription to the Chargefox national network of ultra-rapid charging stations and other participating outlets. The EQC can charge at up to 110kW (DC) and 11kW (AC).
With Chargefox’s ultra-rapid chargers, the EQC claims to hoover up 220km of range in around 30 minutes at the maximum charge rate of 110kW.
Mercedes attaches an eight/year/160,000km warranty to the battery while the vehicle itself has a three-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty. Service intervals are 12 months or 25,000km.
Mercedes-Benz EQC equipment levels
Standard features for the incoming 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 4MATIC include the MBUX infotainment system leveraging a pair of 10.25-inch digital screens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, electrically adjustable and heated front seats, black ARTICO man-made leather upholstery, power-adjustable steering column and dual-zone climate control.
The equipment list extends to ambient LED cabin lighting with 64 colours, keyless vehicle entry/start, a powered tailgate, active parking assist and a 360-degree parking camera.
Safety tech fitted as standard includes traffic sign assist, active cruise control and active lane keeping assist, while nine airbags are part of the package.
The EQC 400 4MATIC rides on 20-inch alloy wheels and comes with adaptive LED headlights and LED daytime running lights integrated into the grille.
The Sport model adds bigger 21-inch AMG alloy wheels and an AMG Line exterior package that includes a sporty black panel grille and a new front bumper (with ‘jet wings’ and functional ‘air curtains’), along with the wider rear bumper with an integrated diffuser.
Inside, the AMG Line interior pack adds a Nappa leather-covered sports steering wheel, plus there’s AMG floor mats, a glass sunroof and tinted rear windows.
The seats are upgraded to full leather and a head-up display is added as well.
Two new exterior paint colours are now offered on both models: Spectral Blue and designo Opalite White Bright.
The EQC 400 4MATIC isn’t the most affordable EV from Benz. The Mercedes-Benz EQA small electric SUV is priced from $76,800 plus ORCs.
How much does the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQC cost?
400 4MATIC – $124,300
400 4MATIC Sport – $141,300
* Prices exclude on-road costs
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