The car you are now reading about is the one that set in motion the electrification of Mercedes-Benz product line-up in Malaysia three years ago.
The EQ series later spawned the EQB, EQC, EQE and EQS.
Like many legacy automakers, Mercedes-Benz is facing immense challenges in its electrification efforts amid a global slowdown in electric vehicle (EV) demand.
The company had initially set ambitious goals to transition to an all-electric lineup by 2030. However, due to sluggish EV sales growth and increased competition, particularly from Chinese manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz has had to walk back its ambitions.
The automaker now anticipates that electrified vehicles, including hybrids, will constitute only 50% of its sales by 2030, a notable reduction from earlier projections. This shift reflects the complexities traditional automakers face in balancing innovation with market realities
It's against this backdrop that the EQA 250 AMG Line operates.
It hasn't changed all that much, if at all, save for a bump-up in range from 425km to 495km months after its local debut in 2022 — thanks to an upgrade in the electric motor.
The EQA remains fully imported from Germany as it's not selling in big numbers here. There's already a facelifted version but that has yet to reach our shores.
The design of the one in hand still holds up if a little nondescript.
The front features a sleek, black panel grille adorned with the iconic three-pointed star, and a continuous LED light strip at both front and rear.
Blue accents within the LED headlamps highlight its electric identity. At the rear, the LED tail lamps merge into the light strip, emphasising the car’s width.
The AMG Line package enhances the vehicle’s sporty appeal with distinctive body styling, including a more aggressive front apron, side skirts, and a rear diffuser along with 19-inch AMG alloy wheels.
Inside, the EQA 250 AMG Line offers a premium feel that is not unlike the one seen in the petrol-engined GLA. Both share the same platform by the way.
The cabin is nicely done up with high-quality materials, including faux leather/suede upholstery, complemented by AMG-specific detailing.
The dual 10.25-inch displays serve as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, powered by the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) interface.
Ambient lighting with 64 colour options allows for a personalized atmosphere. The front seats are electrically adjustable with memory functions, offering optimal comfort.
Rear seat space is adequate for most passengers, but take note that passengers may find comfort compromised due to limited under-thigh support caused by the raised floor from the battery pack.
The EQA is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor producing 188hp and 375Nm of torque, delivering a 0-100kph sprint in 8.9s.
It's not blisteringly fast, but it offers smooth and quiet acceleration typical of electric vehicles.
While the EQA's front-wheel-drive setup provides immediate power delivery, it can result in some torque steer under heavy acceleration. Otherwise in most driving conditions, it remains composed and easy to manage with a ride that leans more towards comfort than outright agility.
Steering is light and precise, making the EQA well-suited for urban driving and ease of parking. At higher speeds, the steering weighs up appropriately, providing a sense of stability.
Blame the battery again for a boot space of just 340 litres. It is, however, expandable to over 1,300 litres with the rear seats split-folded 40:20:40, providing some flexibility for various cargo needs.
The EQA offers a comfortable, premium and decent electric driving experience, particularly suited for urban environments. The 495km range is still good for any out-of-town trips, what with ever more chargers being set up nationwide. At present, 3,611 charging stations have already been built with a target of 10,000 by the end of this year.
In summary, the EQA is still a solid option for those who want a small luxury EV with that classic Mercedes feel — just don’t expect it to push the boundaries.
Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 AMG Line
Electric motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), front-mounted
Maximum power: 190hp
Maximum torque: 370Nm
Battery capacity & type: 66.5kWh, Lithium-ion
Range: 495km (WLTP)
Charger Type: 11kW Type 2 (AC) / 100kW CCS2 (DC)
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
Features: 7 airbags, reversing camera, 10.25-inch touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, 5 USB ports, adaptive LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights, wireless phone charging, paddle shifters for regenerative braking control, Driving Assistance Package, Active Brake Assist, Advanced Sound System, head-up display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated front seats, 19-inch AMG alloy wheels, auto parking, tyre repair kit
Normal charging (AC, 11 kW 10-100%): About 5 hours 45
minutes
Quick Charging (DC, 100 kW 10-80%): Around 32 minutes
Suspension: MacPherson Strut (front); multi-link (rear)
Acceleration (0-100kph): 8.9 seconds
Top speed: 160kph
Kerb weight: 2,040kg
Boot capacity: 340 litres
Price (OTR without insurance): RM296,888
