The Mercedes-Benz electrified EQ lineup continues to expand, and one of the more recent entrants is the EQB compact SUV.

Based on the GLB, this new model is aimed at small families in mind as there is an optional third row (+$1,300) allowing the accommodation of up to seven passengers. Like its zero-emissions siblings, the vehicle boasts the signature design language of a solid black panel grille housing a horizontal LED light bar and matching full-width taillights at the back. The boxy silhouette is retained that not only looks cool but provides lots of headroom (1,034 millimetres front/978 rear) and interior space.

Inside, drivers are greeted with Widescreen Cockpit, which are dual displays serving as both the digital instrument cluster and Mercedes-Benz User eXperience (MBUX) infotainment screen. Like other modern Mercedes-Benz’s, customizable 64-colour ambient lighting creates a nightclub-like ambiance at nighttime. The intelligent navigation system can plan a route taking into account variables like current battery charge, weather data, available infrastructure and more.

We took the small crossover on a camping trip and were surprised at how much stuff it could fit. The 623-litre cargo area behind the second row (when the third is stowed) swallowed up our tent, cooler, two duffle bags, portable barbecue grill and other small pieces of equipment. As mentioned earlier the cabin is spacious and I was actually able to get a little shuteye on the trip by laying across the bench seat.

Dual electric motors propel the 350, together outputting 288 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. A 70.5 kilowatt-hour battery is mounted beneath the floor creating a low centre of gravity and minimizes intrusion into the passenger cell. Acceleration is punchy and handling is quite sharp for the segment without too much body roll while driving spiritedly, aided by the rear-biased 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. Total range is rated at approximately 356 kilometres, which is on the lower end, and up to 100-kilowatt DC fast charging is supported.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz starts at $75,700. A refreshed version is arriving early next year sporting a star-pattern grille, next generation MBUX and upgraded audio.