After the success of the first-ever Mercedes EQC electric crossover, the Mercedes EQ range welcomes their second offering and it's basically the electrified version of the V-Class luxury minivan called the EQV.
So, what's it all about the EQV? This 71,388 Euro luxury minivan is Mercedes' first purely battery-electric people mover in the premium segment, first envisioned from the Concept EQV as seen at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.
As a dream come true for this electric luxury minivan, the styling of the EQV is almost identical to the concept version it was based on and while it was inch-perfect, the sad news is that the illuminating grille from the concept has been eschewed in favor of a normal one. Shame.
On the interior, it's surprisingly similar to the one found on the V-Class, meaning it's relatively more spacious and more convenient for VIPs from all walks of life, something that will put the likes of the Toyota Alphard and the Hyundai Grand Starex to shame. On the driver's side, expect talk marathons on the go because of the MBUX with the annoying intelligent voice control that works like an Amazon Alexa. One "Hey Mercedes" and the madness begin. Ugh. So much for sitting on its sweet spot, which is the key point of the EQV minivan. Speaking of sweet spots, you can opt-in for swiveling seats on the second row, making road trips with this minivan a fancy living. Something that will keep Boss Madam entertained for more even when she's taking power naps if you know what I mean.
The EQV's electric powertrain features an EM6001 electric motor and a 100kWh battery capacity that delivers 204PS of power output, 362Nm of torque output, and a driving range of 356km based on WLTP standards. The top speed is about 140kph.
When plugged at home, it will take up to ten hours to fully charge its batteries but when charged on a super-quick public charging station, it will take less than an hour to fully charge it.
In terms of dynamics, the EQV feels somewhat heavy to drive because of the weight or judging by the fact that it's a front-wheel-drive MPV just like the V-Class but as a people carrier, it feels smooth, quiet, and downright luxurious like what a real luxury minivan should. Let's not forget the safety tech implemented into the EQV and while it's worth noticing, it feels right for the electric minivan of its size.
While the pricing is too much to bear for the luxury electric minivan, the Mercedes EQV is all about satisfying families and VIPs with its luxurious interior and electric powertrain that will never leave an impact while driving. It's something that it's worth fantasizing about if you're imagining one of the sweet spots you will land your bottom on and ended up with the "out on a limo" feeling. This is a luxury electric minivan that is worth any price.
Photo: Daimler AG