2023 Genesis GV60 vs. 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB: A Real-World Comparison
When it comes to the all-electric small SUV category, there is a small selection to choose from. However, if I had to narrow it down, I could recommend the 2023 Genesis GV60 and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB. I have had the chance to drive both of these EVs this year and came up with a quick comparison between them.
The 2023 Genesis GV60 is a lot more futuristic than the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB is based on the current GLB platform, which is the brand’s small SUV. That’s not a bad thing, because the two-row architecture provides plenty of passenger and cargo room. Also, buyers can add a third row to the EQB, effectively making it a 7-seater.
On the outside, the EQB has a boxy and utilitarian look that’s familiar to SUV shoppers. However, the only knock against the car that I have is that it looks boring compared to the 2023 Genesis GV60.
Genesis has done well to set its vehicles apart from anything else on the road with quirky styling, and the GV60 is no exception. Its exterior aesthetic looks like something out of a science fiction movie. And on the inside, although the GV60 only seats up to five passengers, it has a futuristic look filled with quilted patterns and unique shapes that you won’t find in most other cars.
It’s different but not offensive, and I would recommend the GV60 over the EQB if styling is important to you.
The Genesis GV60 wins out in the technology department
Regarding the technological features in both cars, the Genesis GV60 wins hands down. First of all, the GV60 comes with a facial recognition scanner on the driverside door as well as a fingerprint scanner. That means that the driver doesn’t need the key to enter and drive the car.
The Mercedes-Benz EQB that I tested, on the other hand, didn’t have a smart key entry, which means I had to press the button on the key fob to get into the car. A small inconvenience, I know, but for a $60,000 car, it was a little annoying.
The GV60 also came with satellite radio, and the EQB did not. Neither of the cars was equipped with wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto, which again is only a bummer considering their price points. However, both cars had many other features, like heated seats, auto climate control, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Although, I found that the Genesis infotainment screen had a more attractive layout and was easier to use.
The Genesis GV60 is quite the little powerhouse
It might not be fair to compare the Genesis GV60’s power to the Mercedes EQB’s, considering I drove the Performance trim level. The GV60 Performance uses a dual-motor AWD setup that 429 hp, which is a lot on its own. But there’s also a “boost” button on the steering wheel that ups the power level to 483 for five seconds.
With that button pressed, the GV60 can reach 60 mph from a stop in less than 4 seconds. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the EQB 350 that I tested has 288 hp and no boost button. According to Mercedes-Benz, it can reach 60 mph in 6 seconds, which is still quick enough for regular driving, but at a snail’s pace compared to the Genesis.
Sorry EQB, the GV60 has you beat in the range department as well
Another important factor to consider between these two EVs is the electric range. The GV60 has the EQB beat in that department as well. On a single charge, the GV60 Performance should get up to 237 miles compared to the EQB 350’s 227 miles.
It’s a marginal difference, but with electric cars, every mile counts. Also, both cars charged up quickly with a public Level 2 charger. It took around half an hour to get from 30% to 90% power with the GV60 and an hour to go from 50% to 98% with the EQB. Keep in mind that charge times can vary.
2023 Genesis GV60 vs. 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB: Which EV should you pick?
If you’re looking for style, performance, and battery life, I would recommend buying the 2023 Genesis GV60 over the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB 350. The EQB has a little more interior and cargo volume, but considering they both cost around $60,000, the GV60 offers a better value overall.