While the Audi e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace and Tesla Model X are all currently available in the U.S., there’s one SUV we’re still waiting on — the 2020 Mercedes-Benz EQC. The brand’s first all-electric model premieres the new “EQ” sub-brand, and first debuted last September. Now, the company announced formal pricing for their rival to other luxury EV models, which starts at $68,895 including Mercedes’ $995 destination fee.
That price undercuts the least expensive Tesla Model X by a whopping $16,000, but it also undercuts the Jaguar I-Pace by $1,630 and the Audi e-tron by $6,700. Here’s how the base MSRPs for each car compare:
| Starting MSRP | Difference | |
| 2020 Mercedes EQC | $68,895 | — |
| 2020 Jaguar I-Pace | $70,525 | $1,630 |
| 2019 Audi e-tron | $75,595 | $6,700 |
| 2019 Tesla Model X | $84,900 | $16,005 |
More on the EQC
Like the other crossovers the EQC competes against, Mercedes’ first crossover has a dual-motor configuration with all-wheel drive. The front electric motor is tuned more for efficiency and driving the car under low load, while the rear motor is designed “to create a sporty driving experience”, according to Mercedes.
The 80 kWh battery pack isn’t quite as large as the 90 kWh unit in the Jaguar I-Pace, the 95 kWh unit in the Audi e-tron or the 100 kWh unit in the Tesla model X. That said, it does produce 402 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque, which is on part with both its Audi and Jaguar rivals. Mercedes says it can go from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. Exact EPA range figures aren’t available yet, but the company claims its capable of more than 200 miles.
Charging times vary depending on your charging method, from as little as 40 minutes on 110 kW DC fast charging to 10 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 AC charger.
MBUX and driver assistance tech
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz EQC sports dual 10.25-inch touchscreen displays with their latest MBUX infotainment system. That’s similar to other Mercedes models, but the trim levels are different to the traditional buying experience. Instead of breaking out models by displacement or power, there are three “tiers” customers can choose: Progressive, Premium and Advanced. Each tier builds upon the last, adding features like wireless charging and parking assist with the Premium tier.
The Advanced tier offers the most equipment, with things like heated outboard rear seats, ventilated front seats, leather upholstery and the Driver Assistance Package with predictive Active Distance Assist.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz EQC will go on sale early next year. Unlike some of the brand’s other crossovers, the company builds its first electric model in Bremen, Germany.
Check out the best from the LA Auto Show below and stay tuned for more updates!
