Mercedes EQC 400 4MATIC

Overview

The Mercedes EQC 400 4MATIC was Stuttgart's pioneering leap into the premium electric SUV game, offering classic Merc luxury with a silent, punchy electric kick. Though production ceased in 2023, it remains a compelling used buy, especially this potent dual-motor 4MATIC trim. It aimed to give rivals like the Audi e-tron a serious run for their money with its plush ride and tech-laden cabin. On the pre-owned European market, you might snag one for around €32,890. It’s a refined choice for those wanting a smooth transition into electric motoring with a prestigious badge.

What's New for 2023?

For its final model year, the 2023 EQC 400 4MATIC didn’t bring earth-shattering changes, as Mercedes was already looking to its next-gen EVs. Think of it as a "run-out" special, polished and packed with all the good stuff developed over its lifespan. Crucially, by this point, the zippier 11 kW onboard AC charger was standard kit, a welcome upgrade from early models, making home top-ups noticeably quicker. It was the EQC in its most mature form, just before it bowed out, representing a solid package of the tech and comfort Mercedes had honed for its first EQ SUV.

Design & Exterior

The EQC 400 4MATIC boasts a smooth, almost avant-garde look, setting it apart from its petrol-powered GLC cousin. Up front, you get that signature EQ black panel grille flanked by sleek Multibeam LED headlights, connected by a cool light bar. More lightbar action at the rear gives it a distinct night-time presence! Aero-optimised wheels help its efficiency quest. Dimensionally, it’s a sizeable beast at 4762 mm long, 1884 mm wide (mirrors tucked in!), and 1624 mm tall. The 400 4MATIC trim means you're getting the full-fat, all-wheel-drive setup.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Slide inside the EQC 400 4MATIC, and you’re greeted by a proper Mercedes lounge. Quality materials abound, with unique EQ touches like rose-gold accents and that sweeping dual-screen MBUX infotainment system – yup, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. It’s a comfy five-seater with decent space for passengers. Boot space is a practical 500 litres, expanding to a hefty 1460 litres with the rear seats down. Sadly, no frunk for your charging cables, but the cabin’s tech and luxurious feel more than make up for it. Ambient lighting sets the mood perfectly.

Performance & Driving Experience

The EQC 400 4MATIC is no slouch! With two induction motors (one front, one rear) kicking out a combined 300 kW and a massive 760 Nm of torque, it rockets from 0-100 km/h in a swift 5.1 seconds. Top speed is a governed 180 km/h. That instant electric punch makes it feel seriously quick off the line, and the AWD system ensures grip in all conditions. It’s more of a smooth operator than a B-road hustler, prioritising refinement and a plush ride. Regenerative braking is nicely integrated, with selectable levels via steering wheel paddles.

Range, Battery & Charging

Under the floor, the EQC 400 4MATIC packs an 80 kWh usable battery, which Green Cars Compare estimates offers a real-world range of around 364 km – pretty decent for daily duties and some longer jaunts. Efficiency is rated at 4.55 km/kWh. For top-ups, the standard 11 kW AC onboard charger will juice it fully overnight (around 7.5-8 hours). Find a DC fast charger, and it’ll slurp power at up to 112 kW via its CCS Type 2 port (usually at the right rear), getting you from 10-80% in about 40 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Mercedes doesn't skimp on safety, and the EQC 400 4MATIC proudly wears a 5-star Euro NCAP badge. It’s packed with a host of digital guardian angels. Standard kit typically includes Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist. Many EQCs will also feature the optional Driving Assistance Package, bringing goodies like Distronic adaptive cruise control with route-based speed adaptation and Active Steering Assist for semi-autonomous cruising on motorways. So, you can feel pretty secure whether you're navigating city streets or munching motorway miles in this electric Merc.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, the EQC 400 4MATIC typically came with a 2 or 3-year, unlimited kilometre basic vehicle warranty in Europe, varying by country. The crucial high-voltage battery usually gets a more extensive 8-year or 160,000 km warranty, guaranteeing at least 70% of its original capacity. Maintenance on EVs is generally lower than petrol cars – no oil changes here! Some markets offered initial complimentary servicing. As a used buy, check the remaining warranty. Based on the GLC platform, its underpinnings are well-proven, and electric components have shown good reliability so far.