The 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB is a small, all-electric crossover that offers buyers the luxury they expect from the three-pointed star but with an added dose of futuristic tech. Although, the prominence of its high-tech gadgetry mainly lies under the hood. As we found out thus far, while the EQB is a forerunner in its segment, it’s lacking a few simple tech features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 Premium is a boomer in the tech world

To make things clear, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB test car that we received is the Premium trim level. That means it’s a base model compared to the higher Exclusive and Pinnacle trims that you can opt for when buying an EQB 350. That said, it makes sense that it doesn’t have a few features.

However, our tester does lack some of the bare essentials that you would expect in a car that costs $60,100. These features include a smart key entry system, which Mercedes calls KEYLESS-GO. It’s also missing a wireless charging dock, satellite radio, and wireless Android Auto/Apple Carplay connectivity. Is that too much to ask for?

Maybe. The good news is that these features are available on the higher trim levels, which cost $1,250 and $2,300 more, respectively. Is it worth it to step up to those trims? Yes, if you want those aforementioned features and more, like massaging seats and an upgraded Burmester sound system.

How does the Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 drive?

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 provides a laidback and comfortable drive. The seating position is well-placed, and the expansive greenhouse makes it easy to see out of all four corners of the car. We found that the beltline on the doors is perfectly placed for drive-thru windows and ATM machines – not that Mercedes probably thought of that.

As for the drivetrain, we’ve gotten used to rocketing around town with tremendous amounts of power from other EVs like the 2023 Genesis GV60 and the 2022 Mercedes-AMG EQS. In that case, we initially thought that the 288-hp, dual-motor setup in the EQB 350 would feel weak in comparison, but it does not.

Stab the throttle from a stop, and you’ll feel a mild rush of power from the instantaneous 384 lb-ft of torque. This instant on-throttle response works well when it comes to speeding up, getting onto the freeway, or passing slower cars. But when driving normally around town, the throttle feels smooth and linear.

The brakes feel a little squishy, though. But that’s typical of most EVs.

Is the EQB 350 Premium trim worth the price?

Considering those small tech features are omitted, we can’t recommend buying the base Mercedes EQB 350 Premium for a starting price of $58,050. Instead, we would recommend stepping up to the higher trim levels to get more premium features. The price seems more worth it.

Overall, if you’re in the market for an electric vehicle and you need a small SUV to fit five people and all of their stuff comfortably, the Mercedes-Benz EQB is worth a look. Its tall stature and upright seating position make it easy to drive, and its smooth electric powertrain provides plenty of power.

Just remember that if you get the base model, you’ll have to take your key out of your pocket every time you want to lock or unlock the doors.