Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Kia EV5
What's the difference?

Mercedes-Benz EQB

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2023 price

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Kia EV5

$46,488 - $76,615

2025 price

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Summary

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB

2025 Kia EV5

By Tom White

By Andrew Chesterton

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Not Applicable, 0.0L

Fuel Type

Electric

Fuel Efficiency

0.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Clever packaging
350 is by far the best EQB to drive
Tech galore

Very comfortable and capable drive experience
Entry-level pricing on point
Strong warranty offering and $350 a year servicing

Dislikes

Sorry kids, no third row!
Expensive (even for an electric Merc)
Styling might not be for everyone

Artificially heavy steering
Noticeable wind noise at times
Uncomfortable cabin materials

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB Summary

When the GLB arrived in Australia in 2020 it did so to much fanfare as the little premium SUV which could do it all.

It had seven-seats, ideal dimensions slotting underneath the mid-size GLC, the option of all-wheel drive, and even a go-fast AMG version to boot.

Now, the clever little luxury SUV can add another headline feature - it’s gone fully electric.

The EQB, like the EQA before it, follows the formula of its donor car to a T, being familiar for an existing Mercedes buyer whilst also making the jump to a fully electric drivetrain.

For now it comes in two variants, a two-wheel drive with seven seats, and a five-seat all-wheel drive which leans more on the performance aspect of its electric drivetrain. Is the trade-off worth it?

The answer is: It depends. Read on to find out why.

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2025 Kia EV5 Summary

Make no mistake, you are looking at the biggest challenge the all-conquering Tesla Model Y has ever faced in Australia.

It’s the Kia EV5, a mid-size, all-electric SUV the Korean brand thinks will be its best-selling EV by some margin.

Oh, and it’s cheaper than the Tesla, by more than a little bit.

So, is this the electric SUV that might finally put an end to Tesla’s winning run in Australia?

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB 2025 Kia EV5

Verdict

I really liked the combustion version of this car, the GLB, for its funky style and flexibility and I was pleased to find how easily Mercedes has made the conversion to a fully-electric layout for the EQB.

Despite a tall price, the EQB 350 is a compelling option for those seeking something a bit more luxurious than the Tesla Model Y, something a bit larger than the Volvo XC40 Recharge, and something a bit smaller than the Audi e-tron or the EQC.

The main trade-off for this 350 variant is the loss of the seven-seat layout in favour of more performance. Instead it offers a huge boot, has a sufficient range for city-based buyers, and offers surprising levels of fun, too.

Just make sure you’ve considered its rivals which may potentially offer more range or features for the same money.

Verdict

The size is right, the price is right and the drive is right – three things that make the Kia EV5 a pretty formidable foe, and the kind of vehicle that might finally be able to break through the wall of the temple of Tesla in Australia.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.

Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Kia EV5 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Kia EV5
What's the difference?