If you’re looking for an all-electric small SUV, the playing field is rather small. Two of the main rivals in the game are the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB and the Tesla Model Y. Both competitors offer a lot for the money and bring much to the electric vehicle table. However, the EQB has a few slight advantages that prospective buyers may want to consider.

1. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB has a lower starting price than the Tesla Model Y

For the 2023 model year, the Mercedes-Benz EQB is offered in three different trim levels: EQB 250+, EQB 300, and EQB 350. Pricing for the entry-level EQB 250+ starts at $54,500, while the higher trims should start at around $55,500 and $59,050, respectively. However, Mercedes has not released the official pricing for those trim levels yet.

The Tesla Model Y, on the other hand, has a starting price of $65,990 before any potential incentives, which is much higher than the price of the EQB. Additionally, the more potent Model Y Performance starts at $69,990, which is around $10,000 more than the top-trim Mercedes EQB.

2. The Mercedes-Benz EQB has a more intuitive infotainment system

Although the large center screen in the Tesla Model Y is attractive, it controls nearly everything in the car – from the HVAC controls to the wipers. That may be fine for some drivers, but we found that the Mercedes-Benz EQB’s 10.25-inch displays were far more intuitive.

A touchpad on the center console makes toggling through the infotainment screen a breeze and controlling some of the features is as easy as saying, “Hey, Mercedes!” and then giving a command.

3. The Mercedes-Benz EQB has a more robust interior than the Tesla Model Y

Speaking of interiors, we much prefer the Mercedes-Benz EQB’s interior to that of the Tesla’s. Don’t get us wrong; the Model Y offers a slick interior with nice materials. However, the EQB is based on the existing Mercedes GLB platform, which has been perfected over the past few years. That means the fit and finish are impeccable, and there are plenty of lavish materials throughout the cabin.

Furthermore, the EQB offers a more flexible second-row seat that slides fore and aft for a better seating position. Lastly, you can also get a third row in the EQB for less than you can in the Model Y.

4. The EQB has arguably better styling

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but we think that the Mercedes-Benz EQB looks better than the Tesla Model Y. Well, it’s at least a little more utilitarian with its boxy shape. However, that square figure lends itself to being more spacious on the inside.

In fact, the EQB does have a little more headroom and shoulder room in the first and second rows than the Model Y. When it comes to interior space, every inch counts.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB versus Tesla Model Y

Buyers looking for an all-electric small SUV may have a small pool to choose from, but the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB and Tesla Model Y are great choices. If the choices are narrowed down to these two, prospective buyers may want to consider these four reasons before making a final decision.