EVs have fared better in the luxury space in India due to buyers being more open to getting an electric car plus there is more choice. Infact, at Rs 50 lakh plus, there are a sizable number of options. Now, there is another one with the new Mercedes-Benz EQA, the baby Merc SUV but in EV form.
As the name says, the EQA is the electric equivalent to the GLA but is not a born electric car like the EQS. It is based on the GLA but Mercedes-Benz has made sure to make the styling stand out plus give it more features as well. We drove the car briefly in Jaipur where it was raining heavily but it was a perfect test to see if this compact EV can cut it within the chaotic city limits. The EQA comes with a 70.5 kWh battery pack with a claimed range of 560 km.
For India, there is only one variant being the EQA 250+ with a single motor with 190 bhp. While rivals may have dual motors, the EQA does not feel slow and actually surprised us with its performance. Performance is instant just like any fast EV and it feels quick with the Sport mode especially having the typical EV rush which you expect. It is smooth and not jerky while making it a breeze to drive in the city with quick acceleration being a simple tap away.
Even the regenerative braking via steering paddles is very strong. Hence, you would not be lacking in performance while it feels measured in its driving experience too. The steering is light and the compact size also helps navigating in the city. It is also very quiet with no noise getting into the cabin and that is what makes EVs relaxing for city use.
The EQA for India has larger 19-inch wheels but the ride is not firm but neither is it soft while only sharp potholes filter through. Range is where the EQA scores since at 560 km it is more than all of its rivals while in the real world expect 400-450 km.
Even the cabin feels special with the typical Mercedes flair with the tri-pointed pattern at the dash which can be illuminated plus features like a heads-up display which is customisable plus augmented reality based navigation, a 360 degree camera, gesture control, a lovely Burmester audio and the latest MBUX. Just like the GLA, the twin screens are also excellent in terms of the clarity plus quality. The EQA also gets memory seats which are powered plus sustainable materials as well.
However, with the battery placement, the rear legroom is slightly compromised and you sit high-up while the space there is best for two passengers. Also, the boot space is less than the GLA while there is no frunk too.
Overall, the EQA builds on the strengths of the GLA but the design is different here with its tri-pointed pattern grille and the bigger wheels while the cabin is lovely along with loads of range being offered. Plus, Mercedes-Benz has also made the deal sweeter with the 67 percent buyback policy after four years. Hence, as a self driven compact luxury EV, it has plenty of appeal while being a tempting alternative to even the combustion engined GLA.
What we like: Looks, quality, features, range.
What we do not: Rear seat space could be more, less boot space.
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