Mercedes’ New Compact MPV: The EQT, Powered by Renault

Cars based on vans have been popular for a long time, but the rise of SUVs has led to a decline in sales of people-moving vehicles like the Citroën Berlingo. However, the new Mercedes EQT is an interesting addition to the market. Derived from the recently introduced T-Class, which is the passenger version of the second-generation Citan compact van, the EQT shares its platform with the Renault Kangoo. It is built by the French company in Maubeuge.

Electric Powertrain

The EQT features a single front-mounted 122bhp electric motor and 45kWh battery, which are also used in the eCitan and Kangoo E-Tech. This configuration provides a range of 175 miles, and charging can occur at rates of up to 80kW, taking the EQT from 10-80% in as little as 38 minutes.

Interior Features

Prices for the EQT are expected to start at about £48,000 for the Advanced Plus trim level, which includes either a yellow or high-gloss black interior theme, chrome detailing, ambient lighting, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, height-adjustable front seats, a reversing camera, and rear parking sensors. Premium trim adds a number of driver assistance and safety systems, including semi-automatic parking and LED headlights with automatic high beam. Premium Plus then brings sat-nav, keyless go, and smart-looking 17in twin-spoke alloy wheels in place of the standard 16in ones.

Every EQT gets synthetic leather upholstery plus an upmarket suede-like material on the doors and dashboard. Integrated into this is a 7.0in touchscreen running Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system with voice recognition. A heat pump for the air conditioning is also standard to improve heating efficiency and suitability for cold weather.

Storage Space

As the EQT is based on a van, it provides plenty of storage space, with the boot volume measuring 551 litres and increasing to 1979 litres when the rear seats are folded flat. It’s an elegant interior with some high-quality materials that you would expect in a Mercedes, but it still feels like a van.

Performance

The EQT is a comfortable vehicle to spend a lot of time in, with a ride that’s noticeably softer at the front end than at the rear. It handles well too, controlled by direct steering, even if its van platform inevitably makes it less dynamic than a regular electric car. Fully loaded with family and luggage, the motor will have to move two tonnes with 180lb ft of torque. It’s not lightning-quick, but it can muster a decent turn of pace. The EQT’s towing capacity is impressive, with the ability to tow up to 1500kg worth of small boat, jet-ski, or other lifestyle equipment.

Comparison to Other Vehicles

The EQT is slightly more spacious and better to drive than the Citroën ë-Berlingo and its Fiat, Peugeot, and Vauxhall offshoots. However, those have the big advantage of offering a seven-seat layout within a stretched, long-wheelbase body, which Mercedes isn’t expected to offer until mid-2024. Until then, the EQT will struggle to make sense because there are much more enticing yet hardly less practical electric SUVs available in the same lofty price bracket.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the new Mercedes EQT is an interesting addition to the market. It is built on the Renault Kangoo platform and features an electric powertrain that provides a range of 175 miles. The interior is elegant and spacious, with plenty of storage space. The EQT is comfortable to drive and handles well, although it is less dynamic than a regular electric car due to its van platform. While it is slightly more spacious and better to drive than the Citroën ë-Berlingo and its offshoots, the lack of a seven-seat layout may make it less practical for some buyers. Overall, the EQT is a good option for those looking for a people-moving vehicle with an electric powertrain.