Mercedes-Benz EQC review

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

We get behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz EQC – the EV version of the mighty GLC…

The EQC was the first all-electric model from Mercedes-Benz when it was launched in 2019, and its upmarket rivals include the BMW iX3, Audi Q8 e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model X and Genesis GV70.

Handsome and well-proportioned, it has aged well and has serious road presence. Inside, it’s a classy blend of technology, comfort, space and excellent build quality.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The EQC’s 80kWh battery pack sits in the floor, while two electric motors are positioned on each axle, enabling four-wheel-drive.

Producing a substantial 402bhp and 560lb ft (760Nm) of torque, it can sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.1 seconds, and on to a top speed of 112mph.

Claimed range is up to 254 miles, which is average these days, and closer to 200 miles in real-world driving.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The EQC has a maximum 110kW charging capability, meaning a boost from 10-80% can take 40 minutes. Naturally, it will also charge overnight using a 7kW wallbox.

To put that into context – cheaper, newer rivals such as the Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60 have a charge rate of up to 350kW – that’s 10-80% in just 18 minutes.

Naturally, there’s the commanding view of the road you’d expect from a big SUV, while the latest MBUX infotainment and driver information system (which stretches across most of the dashboard) is a particular interior highlight.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The MBUX’s party piece is the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice-control feature which, for the most part, understands commands said in plain English.

And thankfully, there are still plenty of switches and buttons spread around so not all functionality is controlled via the touchscreen.

There’s a decent amount of space in the cabin too, though taller rear passengers might struggle for headroom, thanks to that elegant roofline. It should also be noted that this is a five-seater – you’ll have to go for an EQB if you want three rows.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

Boot capacity is a useful 500 litres, expanding to 1,460 litres with the 40/20/40-split back seats folded.

On the road, Mercedes-Benz has done a fine job of masking the EQC’s 2.5-tonne weight and it’s only when you push on in faster, twisty roads that you realise that discretion is the better part of valour.

In its element on motorways and fast A-roads, where it’s an effortless, refined and relaxed cruiser, there’s also plenty of punch in reserve should you need it.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

The steering is light and precise, especially around town, plus there’s ample grip from those huge wheels (20 or 21 inches, depending on the trim level).

The ride is excellent, and for the most part it glides over poorer road surfaces, only coming unstuck over sleeping policeman and steep driveways, for instance, where the low front air dam rubber flaps scrape unless you’re extra cautious.

So, the EQC is an impressive EV, but it comes at a price. The entry-level AMG Line starts at £74,330, the AMG Line Premium is £78,975, while the range-topping AMG Line is priced from £81,225. To give it its full title, our test car was an EQC 400 4MATIC AMG Line.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

And as you’d expect from a car in this price range, the EQC is one of the safest vehicles on the road, achieving a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating. A full suite of safety and driver assistance systems are available, with parking sensors, a reversing camera, blind-spot alert, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning and LED headlights as standard.

Verdict: The Mercedes-Benz EQC should definitely be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a premium zero emissions SUV. It may not have class-leading dynamics or range, but it’s fast, safe, spacious, comfortable, loaded with tech and oozes class.

Mercedes-Benz EQC review

Lexus RZ review

Lexus RZ review

Luxury brand Lexus is a little late to the party with its first purpose-built electric vehicle. So, the question is – has the RZ been worth the wait?

Lexus is no stranger to electrification. After all, Toyota’s premium sister brand launched its first hybrid, the RX 400h, way back in 2005.

However, it’s taken until now for Lexus to introduce its debut pure electric car designed from the ground up – the RZ 450e – which sits between the mid-size NX and larger RX SUV models.

The RZ’s many EV rivals include the Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Kia EV6, Genesis GV60, Polestar 2 and Jaguar I-Pace.

Lexus RZ review

Before I begin, let’s deal with the elephant in the room, because the RZ has been co-developed with the very similar Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra EVs.

In fact, the RZ 400h is being manufactured alongside its cousins in the same plant at Motomachi, Japan, and they all share the same e-TNGA platform.

It may bear more than a passing resemblance to the Toyota and Subaru, but the RZ differs in some key areas.

The exterior has some uniquely Lexus touches. Its sharper front end features the signature spindle grille (now sealed), while its derriere features a light bar running across the width of the car and softer lines than the BZ’s rump.

Lexus RZ review

Naturally, there’s also a more opulent, driver-focused interior with leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and Lexus’s latest (and much improved) 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system, plus an optional double panoramic roof (which is dimmable and has a coating to reduce the heat it lets into the car) and 20-inch wheels.

So-called “radiant” heaters mounted at knee-level in front of the driver and passenger are another option. Unlike convection heating, they use infrared radiation to heat solid objects directly in front of them and Lexus claims they use around 8% less energy.

The RZ 450e has an all-wheel-drive layout as standard. Named Direct4, it features two electric motors mounted on each axle, and though it has the same 71.4kWh battery ((of which 64kWh is usable) used by its cousins, the front motor has been upgraded to deliver 201bhp while the rear remains unchanged at 107bhp, producing a combined 308bhp with a maximum torque of 321 lb-ft.

It’s swift, with a 0-62mph sprint time of 5.3 seconds, while driving range varies from around 245 miles (20-inch wheels) to 270 miles (18-inch).

Lexus RZ review

The RZ has a maximum 150kWh charging capability, meaning a boost from 10-80% can take as little as 30 minutes when connected to a fast public charger. Naturally, it will also charge overnight using a 7kW wallbox.

Sounds good, but some rivals have ranges of around 300 miles, while the Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60 have a maximum charging capacity of up to 350kWh – that’s 10-80% in just 18 minutes.

On a more positive note, Lexus loves innovation and the RZ is a classic case. From 2024 there will be an option to ditch the traditional steering wheel and choose a butterfly-shaped ‘yoke’ instead.

Looking like something out of Top Gun, it also utilises Lexus’s new One Motion Grip steer-by-wire system. That means it has no mechanical link and no steering column between the steering wheel and driving wheels.

Lexus RZ review

The system requires just 150 degrees of steering wheel rotation between straight ahead and full lock, eliminating the need for any hand-over-hand movements, and allows a better view of the instrument binnacle ahead. However, you also have to keep your hands at the quarter to three position.

I tried the ‘yoke’ version, as well as a regular wheel with a conventional electric power steering rack.

Given a few weeks to adapt, I think the quirks of the new steering wheel would become second nature. For instance, at low speeds, little movement is required for a lot of steering to the front wheels, making it easier to manoeuvre.

Higher speeds require more movement to apply less steering to the wheels for better stability. In practice, that change in ratio meant that my cornering wasn’t as smooth at higher speeds because the steering is so sharp and fast.

Lexus RZ review

Frankly, I felt much more confident driving the RZ with a traditional steering wheel, though the yoke and steer-by-wire are not just a gimmick and many drivers will prefer the system.

My only other observation would be that the yoke’s diminutive stature means the stalks for indicators and lights are on the stubby side, while the regenerative braking paddles have been reduced to buttons.

When it’s available from 2024, a test drive in both versions would be highly recommended.

The steering is a talking point, but ultimately the RZ drives like a Lexus, which means it’s luxurious, smooth, refined and supremely comfortable.

Lexus RZ review

Compliant over poorer road surfaces, it felt nothing but composed over our varied test routes. Hustle it in Sport mode and it stays nicely flat in faster corners and there’s no shortage of grip. Given its agility, you’d never know it weighs more than two tonnes. That said, the RZ is best enjoyed wafting along in the default Normal setting.

Unlike many EVs, the RZ’s brakes seemed fairly responsive and I liked the use of paddles behind the steering wheel to adjust the level of regen on the move.

Ultimately, the Lexus RZ ticks Lexus’s three Cs of confidence, control and comfort in all driving situations. Job done.

The cabin is a mixed bag. The design up front means it’s not quite a spacious as some other EVs because the centre console is solid and fixed. Puzzlingly, there’s not even a glovebox on the passenger side.

Lexus RZ review

The good news is there’s plenty of head and legroom for three adults in the back and boot capacity is a healthy 522 litres, or 1,451 litres with the rear seats flipped. Note, there is no ‘frunk’ under the bonnet – the charging cables have to be stored in the boot.

There are three trim levels to choose from (Premium, Premium Plus and range-topping Takumi).

Priced from £62,600-£72,100, the entry-level Premium model comes with a generous amount of standard equipment including LED headlights, eight-way electrically adjustable front seats, a powered bootlid, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and Lexus’s extensive safety and driver assistance systems.

Move up the grades and other goodies such as a head-up display, 360-degree camera system, radiant heated front seats, a two-tone paint job and a Mark Levinson sound system are offered.

Lexus RZ review

And a special mention for Safe Exit Assist (a Lexus exclusive) which prevents your door opening into the path of vehicles and cyclists approaching from the rear. Great idea.

Finally, if you choose an RZ you’re also buying into Lexus’s reputation for reliability and award-winning customer service.

Like all Lexus cars, it also benefits from an extended manufacturer warranty for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first (as long as you service your car with Lexus).

What’s more, Lexus guarantees the battery will retain at least 70% of its capacity after 10 years. And given its long experience in battery technologies, the company believes the actual capacity at the point should be at least 90%.

Ultimately, the Lexus brand means a lot, which may trump the fact that some RZ rivals offer longer ranges, more power and engagement, plus quicker charging at a lower price.

Verdict: Striking, sumptuous, safe and sensible, the pure electric Lexus RZ 450e is a classy family-sized SUV delivering superb build quality and clever innovations. An impressive debut EV from a top-notch brand.

Lexus UK

Lexus RZ review

New vs used: The biggest EV cost savings revealed

Home / Auto News / New vs used: The biggest EV cost savings revealed

Gareth Herincx

3 days ago
Auto News

Volvo XC60 review

Motorists could save up to 67% when buying a second-hand electric vehicle, a new study has found.

The Nissan Leaf is the EV that offers the most purchase price saving when buying used versus new, costing less second-hand (£21,799), according to the car insurance team at Comparethemarket.com.

The Renault Zoe and Kia Soul also offer high purchase savings when comparing new and used models, with average savings of 66% and 47%, respectively

However, 20% of EV models analysed are more expensive to buy used than new, with the Citroen E-C4 offering the least savings of all

Highest savings: New vs used EVs

Car

Price (£)

Price difference between new and used models

Make & model

Average price of new car

Average resale price

%

£

1

Nissan Leaf

£32,720

£10,921

-67%

-£21,799

2

Renault Zoe

£30,995

£10,452

-66%

-£20,544

3

Kia Soul

£35,945

£18,905

-47%

-£17,041

4

Jaguar I-Pace

£72,000

£42,336

-41%

-£29,664

5

BMW i3

£33,805

£20,327

-40%

-£13,478

6

DS3 CROSSBACK

£37,370

£25,311

-32%

-£12,059

7

Vauxhall Corsa-E

£32,433

£22,685

-30%

-£9,748

8

Tesla Model 3

£54,990

£38,546

-30%

-£16,444

9

Kia Niro EV

£39,995

£29,417

-26%

-£10,578

10

MG5

£32,245

£24,876

-23%

-£7,369

When purchasing a second-hand vehicle, drivers should bear in mind that if the vehicle is over three years old, the car will need an annual MOT.

It is also worth considering that although the upfront costs are cheaper, there will be additional costs associated with older vehicles, including the increased servicing needs and potential repairs needed, in comparison to a brand new model.

Tags

Gareth is a versatile journalist, copywriter and digital editor who’s worked across the media in newspapers, magazines, TV, teletext, radio and online. After long stints at the BBC, GMTV and ITV, he now specialises in motoring.

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Wraps come off the all-new Polestar 3 SUV

Gareth Herincx

2 days ago
Auto News

Polestar 3 SUV

Swedish EV maker Polestar has unveiled its first SUV – a car which is expected to turbo-charge the brand’s sales.

Priced from £79,900, it was also be the first Polestar to be produced on two continents – Chengdu, China and Ridgeville, South Carolina.

Polestar 3 will compete with other electric SUVs in the premium sector, including the Jaguar I-Pace, BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQC and Audi e-tron.

Polestar 3 SUV

It will launch with a dual-motor powertrain, which in standard form produces 483bhp and 618lb ft of torque. That’s enough to power the 2.5-tonne 4×4 from 0-62mph in 5.0sec and on to a top speed of 130mph.

An optional Performance Pack adds an extra 27bhp and 51lb ft, shaving 0.3sec off the 0-62mph sprint.

More importantly to some, the long Range Polestar 3 will have a 111kWh lithium ion battery that has a claimed range of up to 379 miles and a peak charging rate of 250kW. It’s also capable of bidirectional vehicle-to-grid charging and features a heat pump as standard.

Polestar 3 SUV

The car’s rakish profile is reminiscent of a stretched Volvo C40 Recharge, while aerodynamic touches include air channels at the front of the bonnet, plus a raised spoiler at the top of the tailgate.

The materials used inside Polestar 3 have been selected for their sustainability credentials. These include bio-attributed MicroTech, animal welfare-certified leather and fully traceable wool upholsteries.

“Polestar 3 is a powerful electric SUV that appeals to the senses with a distinct, Scandinavian design and excellent driving dynamics,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. 

“It takes our manufacturing footprint to the next level, bringing Polestar production to the United States. We are proud and excited to expand our portfolio as we continue our rapid growth.”

Polestar 3 SUV

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Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

We road test the award-winning electric vehicle that instantly dates just about every other car on the road…

It’s difficult to know where to start with a car like the acclaimed Hyundai Ioniq 5. Already the winner of various Car of the Year titles, this futuristically styled EV features state-of-the-art technology and looks like nothing else on the road.

Hyundai may not thank me for it, but I’m going to start by pointing out that the Ioniq 5 shares its Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) with its Korean cousins, the Kia EV6 and the upcoming Genesis GV60.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I’d say the retro cool Ioniq 5 is easily the most distinctive of the trio. Park it next to any other competitor car (eg Volkswagen ID.4, Jaguar I-Pace or Ford Mustang Mach-E) and they look instantly dated.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

Bigger in the metal than I’d expected, it looks like it should be about the size of a VW Golf from the pictures, but it’s actually closer to a Skoda Enyaq iV.

Hyundai markets it as a “midsize CUV”, which is automotive industry speak for a Crossover Utility Vehicle – a blend of hatchback and SUV, for want of a better definition.

Competitively priced from £37,545, there’s a range of battery and motor options available, plus rear or all-wheel drive. Packed with technology and equally futuristic inside, it’s a revelation.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

Able to charge from 10-80% (via an ultra rapid 350kW chargepoint) in as little as 18 minutes and travel up to 298 miles on a charge, it can sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds.

We tested the top-of-the range Ioniq 5 with twin-motor all-wheel drive and the largest battery size available (72.6kWh). Just shy of £50,000, it boasts a combined 301bhp and 446lb ft of torque.

The flush door handles pop out as you walk up to the Ioniq 5. Once inside, the benefits of the car’s larger dimensions and flat floor are obvious – it’s bathed in space and light.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

It’s ultra-modern and minimalist up front, thanks to a two-spoke steering wheel and panoramic twin-screen infotainment and driver’s display set-up.

There’s a sliding centre console incorporating cupholders, small storage areas and a wireless phone charger, while the versatile front seats can be fully reclined.

Comfort is subjective, and though the seats were nicely padded with plenty of adjustment, I just couldn’t get the perfect driving position. Such is the huge amount of cabin space, I felt perched and almost marooned at times.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

The bonus of such a high driving style is that there are no complaints in the visibility department, but ultimately the Ioniq 5 may be fast, but doesn’t feel so sporty.

There’s ample room for rear passengers, while the shallow boot still has a decent 527-litre capacity, expanding to 1,587 litres with the rear seated flipped. You can also store the charging cables in a space under the bonnet.

All versions are loaded with kit. Even the entry-level SE Connect model comes with the dual 12.3-inch screens, the impressive rapid charging capability, wireless smartphone charging, 19-inch alloy wheels and highway drive assist (an advanced version of adaptive cruise control).

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

Move up to Premium for LED headlights, an electric driver’s seat, an electric boot, heated front seats and blind spot monitoring with collision avoidance.

Ultimate adds a head-up display, 20-inch alloys, Bose sound system, rear privacy glass and ventilated front seats.

To get moving, simply choose a gear (the shift stalk is mounted low right on the steering column) and you’re away – and it’s properly quick.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

You can also select Eco, Normal or Sport drive modes and adjust the brake regeneration. The ‘one-pedal’ option enables you to slow down to a halt just by lifting off the accelerator. It’s useful in town, but a little jarring on faster roads, where it’s easier to use the paddles behind the steering wheel for extra regen.

Frankly, Normal will do just fine. Eco is OK for cruising on a motorway or A-road, but a little lifeless otherwise, while Sport is fun for short, battery-draining bursts of fun.

If you’re looking for a comfortable ride, then the Ioniq 5 is the car for you. However, more spirited drivers might find it a little too floaty with rather too much body roll in faster corners.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

That said, there’s plenty of grip and the steering is light and easy, while the brakes are unusually responsive for an EV.

No car is perfect and the Ioniq is no exception. It’s not as dynamic to drive as some rivals, and some of the interior materials could be classier.

The lack of a rear wiper is a bigger issue than it might sound too, especially when it’s raining. I finally lost patience on one motorway journey, stopping the car at a service station to clean the rear window. Also, the steering wheel obscured some of the driver display behind with my set-up.

I tested the car in the winter so the 267-mile range (the AWD in top spec Ultimate trim with 20-inch wheels is 30 miles down on the RWD) was never on, but I’d say up to 240 miles is realistic in those conditions.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review

Thankfully, advanced charging ability is the Ioniq 5’s party piece. In theory, it can add 62 miles of range in just five minutes, because it’s one of the few EVs on the market to support both 400V and 800V charging.

Using a more common 50kW charger, you’ll get up to 80% in 50 minutes, while a complete charge on a wall box at home is best done overnight.

Unless you need all-wheel drive, I suspect the sweet spot in the range is the cheaper 72.6kWh single motor version (RWD) with a potential range closer to the claimed 298 miles.

Verdict: The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is smooth, spacious, comfortable and easy to drive. Loaded with state-of-the art technology, it’s a competitively priced family EV that oozes kerb appeal.

Hyundai UK