2021 Mercedes-Benz EQA gets debuted as an electric GLA
It seems that 2021 is shaping out to be an ‘electric’ year so far, with many brands taking the opportunity to reveal their own electric concepts. Among this crowd, is Mercedes, who have just revealed all the juicy details about their latest EQA model. The 2021 Mercedes EQA will be based on the current generation GLA and will adopt a similar design to the current electric Mercedes-Benz EQC. The EQA will be an entry-level to the all-electric world of Mercedes-EQ vehicles.
The EQA will be launched as the EQA 250 and will have a combined electric consumption of 15.7 kWh/100 km. It packs a respectable power output of 140kW and can reach a range of 486 km. The EQA will come with a "double-decker" lithium-ion battery and will have an energy content of 66.5 kWh. Mercedes has also gone a step further to separate the electric powertrain from the chassis and body, ensuring that the brand’s high standard of noise and vibration comfort is met.
In terms of exterior characteristics of the EQA, it will come featured with a black panel radiator grille with the Mercedes-EQ badging. Some distinctive design features associated with Mercedes-EQ vehicles are its continuous light strip at the front and rear. A horizontal fiber-optic strip can be seen connecting the daytime running lights of the full-LED headlamps. Blue colour highlights can be seen within the headlamp which further emphasizes the signature Mercedes-EQ appearance.
As for the interior, the electric character is highlighted throughout its design. Depending on the trim chosen, customers will be treated with a new-style back-lit trim element and rosé gold-coloured decorative trims on the ventilation outlets, seats, and vehicle key. Those who choose the special Edition 1 model will gain additional features such as perforated leather seats. The instrument cluster will also be quite unique as it will come with electric vehicle-specific displays. The EQA also offers great utility value as the rear seat backrest is 40:20:40 split-folding.
Other standard features on the EQA include an MBUX infotainment system, ambient lighting with 64 different colour options, a parking camera, and a premium leather steering wheel. As for what the pricing for the Mercedes-Benz EQA will be in South Africa remains unknown. The EQA has gotten a 2021 release date, but as to whether we will see one on the road anytime soon, maybe very unlikely.
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FAQ
Q: What does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz EQA cost in South Africa?
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 starts from around R899,000 in South Africa, making it the most affordable way to get into Mercedes' electric lineup without breaking the bank completely.
Q: Is the Mercedes-Benz EQA worth buying over other electric SUVs?
The EQA is worth considering if you want proper German luxury with a 486km range and 140kW of power, but you'll pay a premium over alternatives like the BMW iX3 which offers similar performance for slightly less cash.
Q: How long does it take to charge the Mercedes EQA battery?
With its 66.5 kWh battery pack, the EQA takes about 5.5 hours to charge from 10-80% using a 22kW AC wallbox, or roughly 30 minutes on a DC fast charger if you can find one in South Africa.
Q: What's the difference between the EQA and the regular GLA?
The EQA is essentially an electric GLA with a closed-off grille, blue accent lighting, fancy interior trim, and obviously no petrol engine, but it rides on the same platform and has similar interior space.
Should You Buy It?
The best entry-level luxury electric SUV under R950,000 in South Africa is definitely the Mercedes-Benz EQA 250, but that doesn't mean you should rush to buy one. At R899,000, you're getting proper Mercedes luxury, a decent 486km range, and 140kW of smooth electric power that'll keep you happy on both city drives and weekend getaways. The interior is properly premium with those rose gold accents and back-lit trim pieces that scream "I've made it". However, South Africa's charging infrastructure is still patchy, and you're paying a hefty premium for the three-pointed star badge. If you absolutely must have German luxury and can afford the price tag, go for it. But if you're more practical than flashy, wait a year or two for prices to drop or consider a plug-in hybrid instead.
