2024 Mercedes EQA Review: Key Refinements And Shortcomings

The 2024 Mercedes EQA introduces a mid-cycle refresh to its compact electric SUV lineup, aiming to boost appeal in a fiercely competitive segment. While cosmetic tweaks and efficiency tweaks add polish, fundamental drawbacks in handling, interior space, and pricing prevent it from fully satisfying discerning buyers.

Exterior Styling Evolution

Mercedes has applied targeted visual updates to the EQA’s exterior, maintaining its recognizable compact SUV silhouette while injecting modernity. The front fascia now sports a revised grille pattern and reshaped bumpers that enhance aerodynamic flow. New lighting elements adopt a sharper, more angular design, contributing to a bolder nighttime presence. At the rear, updated taillight clusters connect via a subtle light bar, echoing trends across the EQ family for brand cohesion.

Alloy wheel options expand with fresh 19- and 20-inch designs, available in multiple finishes to suit tastes from sporty to elegant. Color palette refreshes include deeper metallics and vibrant accents, allowing personalization. These changes measure approximately 4.5 meters in length, preserving urban maneuverability without sacrificing presence on highways.

• Front updates: Redesigned grille and bumpers for better airflow.
• Rear modifications: Connected taillights with light bar integration.
• Wheels: New 20-inch options on higher trims for enhanced stance.

Overall, the exterior refresh signals evolution without alienating existing fans, though rivals offer more dramatic transformations.

Interior Refinements and Tech Integration

Stepping inside reveals a cabin emphasizing luxury through high-quality materials and intuitive layouts. Dual 10.25-inch screens dominate the dashboard—one for instruments, the other for MBUX infotainment—framed by a new steering wheel featuring capacitive touch controls. While responsive, these controls demand adaptation, occasionally leading to input errors during dynamic driving.

The center console gains a practical storage tray, improving daily usability. Premium trims like AMG Line Premium Plus incorporate memory-adjustable seats, a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and Burmester surround sound, elevating comfort. Ambient lighting customizable in 64 colors adds sophistication, paired with soft-touch surfaces throughout.

However, rear passenger space remains compromised. Legroom suits adults for short trips, but headroom suffers from the raised floor necessitated by the underbody battery pack. Boot capacity stands at 340 liters with seats up, expanding to 1,320 liters folded—adequate but trailing segment leaders.

Powertrain and Efficiency Gains

The EQA lineup centers on rear-wheel-drive single-motor setups for the 2024 model, with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant available. The base EQA 250 delivers 188bhp from its 70.5kWh battery (66.5kWh usable), achieving 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds. The range-topping 250+ variant claims up to 346 miles WLTP, aided by efficiency optimizations like low-rolling-resistance tires and refined regenerative braking.

A new range extender mode in MBUX dims screens and curbs climate control for maximum mileage, ideal for long journeys. Real-world testing yields around 280-300 miles, competitive but sensitive to speed and load. Charging supports 100kW DC for 10-80% in 35 minutes, with 11kW AC onboard.

• Battery Options: 70.5kWh standard across models.
• Range (WLTP): 314-346 miles depending on trim.
• Drive: RWD primary; AWD optional.

Power delivery feels smooth for city and motorway use, though acceleration lacks punch compared to performance-oriented rivals.

On-Road Dynamics and Ride Assessment

Refinement shines on motorways, where noise insulation and seat comfort excel for relaxed cruising. The suspension balances compliance over urban potholes, but higher speeds reveal shortcomings. The tested 20-inch wheels on Premium Plus amplify road imperfections, transmitting harshness that unsettles the chassis.

Steering provides decent feedback, yet the EQA’s elevated center of gravity from batteries induces body roll in corners, diminishing confidence. Braking is progressive, blending regeneration seamlessly. Lower trims with smaller wheels may offer superior ride comfort, suggesting spec-conscious buyers prioritize them.

In comparisons:

Pricing and Trim Breakdown

Entry-level EQA 250 starts around £45,000, escalating to £58,010 for the 250+ AMG Line Premium Plus. This positions it against premium compact EVs like the BMW iX1 and Audi Q4 e-tron, but value questions arise. Lavish equipment justifies some premium, yet reduced range on larger wheels (314 miles vs. 346) and practicality gaps inflate effective cost.

Ownership perks include Mercedes’ Me Charge network access and an eight-year battery warranty covering 70% capacity retention. Running costs benefit from EV incentives, with BIK tax advantages for company users.

Competitive Landscape

The EQA faces stiff opposition. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers superior range and faster charging; the Kia EV6 impresses with dynamics; Volkswagen ID.4 provides space at lower prices. Premium peers like the iX1 edge ahead in handling, while the Volvo EX30 undercuts on price with peppy performance.

Mercedes counters with badge prestige and superior interior ambiance, appealing to luxury seekers over pure value hunters.

Pros and Cons Summary

• Pros: Luxurious cabin, strong motorway refinement, generous kit on top trims, solid efficiency.
• Cons: Limited rear space, firm ride on big wheels, high price for single-motor setup, average practicality.

Who Should Consider the 2024 EQA?

Ideal for urban professionals valuing Mercedes polish and tech, with occasional longer trips. Families or efficiency purists may look elsewhere. Opt for base or mid trims to maximize value and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2024 Mercedes EQA?

WLTP figures span 314-346 miles, with real-world around 280-310 miles depending on conditions.

How fast does it charge?

Up to 100kW DC, achieving 10-80% in about 35 minutes; 11kW AC home charging supported.

Is the interior spacious?

Front space is generous, but rear leg- and headroom lag due to battery placement.

What’s new in the 2024 facelift?

Exterior styling tweaks, updated interior controls, efficiency software, and expanded wheel options.

Alternatives to consider?

BMW iX1, Audi Q4 e-tron, Hyundai Ioniq 5, or Kia EV6 for varied strengths.