New Mercedes EQA gets revised look, more range

• 348-mile range
• Upgraded MBUX infotainment
• Priced from around £50,000

The Mercedes EQA offers buyers an entry point into the brand’s electric car range, and to keep the model fresh, Mercedes has revealed details of a facelifted version of its smallest EV, set to arrive in early 2024.

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Detail changes to the exterior will give the EQA a new look on the road, but more relevant for drivers will be improvements to the car’s efficiency, with the farthest-reaching models offering nearly 350 miles of range, up from a maximum of 324 miles in the car currently on sale.

The EQA’s new look isn’t transformative, but does bring the small SUV in line with other recent electric Mercedes models. A new grille design serves as the centrepiece, with a black panel incorporating dozens of small three-pointed star motifs, while the slim light band above is carried over from the existing car.

2024 Mercedes EQA design, interior and infotainment

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The bumper design has also been revised, though you’ll be pushed to spot any significant changes, and it’s a similar story around the back. As with the outgoing shape the tail lights are linked by a band stretching across the tailgate, but the internals of the light units are now slightly different.

Likewise, interior changes are subtle. You now get Mercedes’ most recent steering wheel design with its split spokes and touch controls (visually appealing, though tactility takes a backwards step), and those fond of Mercedes’ three-pointed star will be pleased to find it repeated all over the dashboard trim panel, with some backlit elements. An open-pore wood interior finish is also available.

There’s also an updated version of the company’s MBUX infotainment system, with new subtle, sporty, and classic display themes, and improved voice assistant features too, should internet access be enabled in the system. Mercedes also promises better sound from the optional Burmester audio system.

Facelifted Mercedes EQA range and charging

The more significant change is that Mercedes has found ways of extending range to up to 348 miles, compared to the 324 miles of the current car. The use of ultra-low rolling resistance tyres has contributed, as have aerodynamic tweaks to help the car cut through the air, while a range-optimised driving mode can reduce the draw of certain features, such as air conditioning, to squeeze as many miles as possible from the battery.

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It should also be easier to charge, with new ‘Plug & Charge’ functionality – at public charge points that support it – that let you plug in and begin charging immediately, Tesla-style, with no need for swiping cards or other authentication methods. Improvements to the car’s sensors, backup camera, and driving assistance features should bring about benefits out on the road, too.

Mercedes will reveal full specifications and pricing for the updated EQA in due course. Order books should open this autumn, with the first customer deliveries taking place early in 2024.

Read our in-depth review of the pre-facelift Mercedes EQA or check out our list of the best electric SUVs