With a starting price of R2.3 million, the EWV demands attention. Here are the five most compelling features that define the experience and validate the EQV 300’s postiion as South Africa’s first true luxury people mover.

1. The 90kWh Battery and 110kW DC Fast Charging

For any long-distance electric vehicle in South Africa, the battery and charging capability are non-negotiable. The EQV 300 is equipped with a substantial 90kWh usable battery pack, which provides a claimed WLTP range of up to 363km.

Our test confirmed a real-world highway range of approximately 320km at typical South African speeds, which is manageable on key routes like the N1 and N2 planned stops.

Cruicially, the van supports 100kW DC fast charging, allowing you to top up the battery from 10% to 80% in about 40 minutes. This is the feature that transforms the encforced break into a productive or relaxing interlude, rather than a frustrating delay.

2. Silent Luxury: The Near-Silent Electric EQV Drivetrain

First up on our 5 Top Features That Define the Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 has to be its whisper-quiet operation. Replacing the diesel’s rumble with a near-silent electric whir elevates the entire passenger experience.

Elsewhere, the 150kW electric motor and 365Nm of instant torque provide a sprightly driving feel, making the 2 748kg people mover feel effortless in city traffic and surprisingly responsive on the open road.

3. EQV 300 Widescreen Cockpit with MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation

The EQV steps far beyond its commercial van origins with a technology suite borrowed directly from Mercedes-Benz’s latest passenger cars. The updated cockpit is dominated by twin high-resolution screens.

The dual 12.3-inch displays runs the sophisticated MBUX multimedia system while the built-in Augmented Reality Navigation overlays directional arrows and street names directly onto a live camera feed of the road ahead, proving immensely helpful when navigating unfamiliar towns and complex interchanges.

4. AIRMATIC Air Suspension for Ultimate Comfort

To truly deliver on its “luxury people mover” promise, Mercedes-Benz includes the sophisticated AIRMATIC air suspension as standard in the South African EQV 300. This is a game-changer for ride quality

The system automatically adjusts the damping for each individual wheel based on the road surface and driving situation, ensuring a superbly comfortable and composed ride.

AIRMATIC also maintains a constant vehicle height regardless of the load, crucial when carrying seven passengers and luggage. providing consistent handling and comfort across long distances.

5. Premium, Flexible Seating and Cabin Utility Define the Mercedes-Benz EQV 300

Despite its van roots, the EQV’s interior is thoroughly appointed as a luxuty vehicle, focusing on flexible space and high-end materials.

The cabin features high-quality materials like Lugano leather, wooden trims and 64-colour ambient lighting. The ability to slide and turn the captain’s chairs allows for a face-to-face conference seating arrangement.

Features like the electrically-operated sliding doors, and the three-zone climate control ensure that every one fot he seven occupants is treated to a premium, convenient experience.

Learn more on the Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 on the official Mercedes-Benz website.

Fast forward to the launch of the Vito earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz slightly hinted to plans of bringing more electrified van options into the country. And here we are. Electric vans have been promised for years, charging infrastructure remains patch at best and at R2.3 million, this electrified V-Class alternative costs serious money.

But rather than a gentle introduction around Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, we had something more ambitious in mind: a multi-day trek from Johannesburg to Cape Town, out to Knysna along the Garden Route, and back home via George and Graff-Reinet.

Years of seeing electric vehicles relegated to short urban commutes has perhaps conditions us to expect less. But this wasn’t going to be a gentle test around the block. This was the real South Africa, with all its infrastructure challenges, vast distances and the kind of proper road trip that would eithe vindicate or demolish the EQV’s credentials as a genuine long-distance luxury transport solution.

The Electric Monster

The Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 is, at its core, a V-Class that’s been thoroughly electrified. Where the diesel V300d relies on a 2.0 litre turbodiesel, the EQV employs a 150kW electric motor driving the front wheels, fed by a substantial 90kWh battery pack. Merceds claims a WLTP range of up to 363km, while our real life maximum came to 350km. Elsewhere there are outputs of 150kW and 365Nm. The 0-100km/h sprint takes 12.1 seconds, which sounds pedestrian on paper but feels far more sprightly in practice, thanks to that instant torque delivery that defines the electric vehicle experience.

At 5 140mm long and tipping the scales at 2 748 km, this is no small machine. Yet Mecedes has managed to package the battery beneath the floor without sacrificing the V-Class’s renowned spaciousness. All seven seats remain intact, the boot floor sits at a convenient height, and headroom throughout the entire cabin is genuinely generous. It’s the sort of packaging efficiency that makes you wonder why more manufacturers haven’t pursued this route sooner.

Back to our road trip

The trip began at sunrise, with the EQV fully charged and the navigation plotting our route south along the N1. The first revelation came within minutes of leaving Johannesburg’s urban sprawl: where the diesel V-Class rumbles and grumbles, the EWV glides along with only wind noise and a subtle electric whir to indicate forward motion.

I quickly settled into the maximum regeneration mode, which allowed most urban and suburban driving to be accomplished with minimal brake pedal use. It’s not quite as aggressive as some EVs I’ve sampled, but it strikes a sensible balance between efficiency and passenger comfort. Truthfully, the last thing you want in a seven seater is abrupt deceleration that sends occupants lurching forward, right onto each other’s laps.

The charging infrastructure along the N1 has improved dramatically in recent years, though it remains far from perfect. GridCars and Rubicon have installed charging stations along the N1 between Gauteng and Cape Town, with 150kW DC fast charging capability at key locations. Our first stop came at Ventersburg, where the EQV’s 110kW DC charging capability meant we could add roughly 260km of range in about 40 minutes. Enough time for a proper breakfast and leg stretch. We repeated the same process in Bloemfontein at the Astron on the Hill and we later settled for an overnight stay in Colesburg to recharge our batteries (and the EQV) at a household three-pin plug.

Our journey continued first thing in the morning with a quick charge at the Astron Colesburg station, followed by Richmond, Beaufort West, Laignsburg then Worcester.

Here’s where the EQV 300’s position becomes clear; this isn’t a vehicle for those in a hurry. If you’re transporting VIP clients, executives or family on a leisurely road rtip, the enforced charging stops become opportunities for breaks, meals and experiencing the journey rather than simply enduring it. For high-mileage shuttle services or tight airport runs, the diesel V-Class remains the more practical choice.

The Garden Route

After a few days in Cape Town, we headed east along the N1 toward Knysna, and this is where the EQV truly revealed its character. The Garden Route’s sweeping coastal roads, with their moderate pace and scenery, suit the electric van perfecetly. Range anxiety evaporated as we reached our first charging station in Swellendam, followed by Riversdale then Hartenbos.

On the highway, cruising at 120km/h, we acheived roughly between 2.4 and 2.6 kWh, translating to a realistic rnage of about 250 -280km between charges. The onboard range estimator provided refreshingly accuarate, never lulling us into fasle security or causing panic.

The ride quality also impressed. Our unit is kitted out with the AIRMATIC air suspension which smoothed out the uneven surfaces and made driving on rediential routes with humps and pot holes a breeze. It rides on 18-inch wheels that add to the entire expiernce, with a lovely rim design to match.

Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 Technology

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 brings significant interior updates that elevate the EQV beyond its van origins. The 12.3-inch touchsreen display runs Mercedes’ MBUX multimedia system, complete with augmeneted reality navigation that overlays directional arrows onto the live camera feed. On unfamiliar roads through small Gargen Route towns, this proved genuinely useful rather than mere gimmickry.

The three zone climate control kept all occupants comfortable across varying temperates, and the pre-entry climate control meant we could cool the cabin while plugged in, preserving battery range for driving.

Material quality throughout feels appropiate for the price point, with Lugano leather uplostery in black as standard, wooden trim, 64-colour ambient lighting creating an atmosphere that’s distinctly Mercedes. The captain’s chairs in our vehicle offered heating and ventilation although you can spec it out further with massage functions.

The Reality of Long-Distrance EV Travel

The return lef from Knysna to Johannesburg via George and Graaff-Reinet proved the most challenging. While coastal routes benefit from relatively dense charging infrastructure, inland sections remain underserved. The stretch through the Karoo required careful planning, with charging stops at Willowmore and Graaff-Reinet breaking the journey into manageable segments.

The total trip covered approximately 2 800km over five days. Total charging time – including meals, overnight stops, and one extended break in Cape Town and Knysna amounted to roughly 10 hours.

In the end

The Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 isn’t perfect, but it represents a genuine step forward for electric mobility in South Africa. Our epic road trip proved that long-distance EV travel is not possible but can be genuinely e njoyable, provided you’re willing to adjust expectations and embrace a different pace.

The charging stops become oportunities rather than obstcles. We explored towns we’d typically bypass, discovered excellent restaurants at unexpected locations and arrived at each destination feeling more refreshed than trade-off justifies the EQV’s limitations and premium pricing depends entirely on your priorities and usage patterns.

For families seeking distincitve, environmentally conscious way to travel South Africa’s incredible landscapes, the EQV delivers. For executives transport services operating predictable routes with reliable charging access, it makes compelling business sense. For eveyone else, the diesel V-Class remains the more practical, if less interesting, chhoice.

As I returned the EQV after our eleven-day trek, having covered nearly 3000km, with no infrastructure hiccup, I found myself surprisingly reluctanct to hand back the keys. “I really want to drive this electric van some more” is not a phrase I expected to utter. Yet the EQV’s combination of luxury, practicality, and that addictive instant torque delivery makes a complelling argument for electric motoring’s future. Even in a country where the future remains very much a work in progress.

The Edition 1 packs a serious punch under the hood. The AMG 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo engine teams up with a 120 kW electric motor to deliver a combined system output of 450 kW and 750 Nm of torque.

The result? A blistering 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.8 seconds with RACE START engaged, while the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system and active rear-axle steering ensure maximum grip and control.

What sets this hybrid apart is its 28.6 kWh battery pack (21.22 kWh usable), which provides over 100 km of pure electric driving range. The system supports both everyday city commuting and performance driving, with electric assistance always ready to deliver immediate torque response.

Each of the 12 South African units comes finished in MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey solid paint, complemented by striking yellow topstitching throughout the cabin. The Edition 1 specification includes AMG forged wheels, the AMG Night Package, AMG Exterior Carbon Package, and AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package as standard.

Inside, occupants get AMG Performance seats, MBUX Superscreen with passenger monitor, and hybrid-specific displays showing real-time performance data and energy flow. Yellow seatbelt highlights and exclusive AMG badging reinforce the model’s limited status.

The comprehensive equipment list includes the AMG Driver’s Package, high-performance compound brake system, AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, 21-inch AMG cross spoke forged wheels, and AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre.

Charging capabilities are equally impressive, with a standard 11 kW AC onboard charger and 60 kW DC fast charger allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes. The electromechanical brake booster provides seamless transitions between recuperative and hydraulic braking.

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes include “Electric”, “Battery Hold”, and “Sport+”, allowing drivers to switch between whisper-quiet efficiency and full-throttle performance. The top speed is electronically limited to 280 km/h, with electric-only driving possible up to 140 km/h.

This ambitious project marks the second phase of MBSA’s commitment to achieving net carbon-neutral manufacturing, aligning with Mercedes-Benz’s broader goal of covering over 70 percent of its energy demand in production with renewable energies by 2030. The foundation for this commitment was laid out in the company’s sustainable business strategy, Ambition2039, which was already set in motion at the East London manufacturing plant in 2022.

Andreas Brand, CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Manufacturing, emphasized the significance of the PV installation, stating, “The installation of the Photovoltaic solar panels at our manufacturing plant is a key pillar of our energy strategy and will contribute towards the East London plant’s daily maximum demand requirement of 12MW in times of peak demand.”

The R100 million investment accelerates Mercedes-Benz’s carbon-neutral manufacturing ambitions and underlines the company’s commitment to corporate citizenship. Brand urged stakeholders to act swiftly in addressing South Africa’s electricity challenges, emphasizing that every action counts in safeguarding the environment for future generations.

This substantial investment not only reinforces MBSA’s dedication to environmental sustainability but also aligns with the government’s call to reduce industrial electricity consumption on a strained electrical grid. Additionally, the PV installation offers a cost-effective energy solution, leveraging a renewable energy source.

The project unfolds as the second phase following the completion of the initial installation of 3,692 PV solar panels in 2022, providing 2MWp. The upcoming phase will cover five additional rooftops of the East London Plant, expanding the manufacturing plant’s footprint by an additional 12.6MWp. In total, the Photovoltaic system will comprise approximately 26,539 solar panels, generating 14.6MWpeak – in line with the East London Plant’s maximum demand during production days. The completed system is anticipated to contribute approximately 20 percent of the East London Plant’s annual MWh consumption.

Set to commence in the first quarter of 2024, the project is a collaborative effort with a local supplier, emphasizing MBSA’s commitment to fostering partnerships that contribute to sustainable development. As Mercedes-Benz takes bold strides towards a greener future, this investment sets a powerful example for the automotive industry’s role in environmental stewardship and responsible corporate citizenship.

Mercedes-Benz has a rich history in South Africa, spanning over six decades, and has always prided itself on being a socially responsible corporate entity. As the pioneers of the automobile industry and creators of some of the world’s most coveted vehicles, Mercedes-Benz understands that its influence goes beyond the confines of the showroom. It recognizes the need for collaboration with like-minded individuals, brands, and communities who are dedicated to driving the world towards sustainability.

The Black Coffee Foundation and Mercedes-Benz South Africa share a common vision – to address social issues and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it the most. Black Coffee is a global icon, known for his inspirational music and motivation, and Mercedes-Benz sees partnering with his foundation as a way to uplift communities, tackle social challenges, and restore dignity to the vulnerable among us. This partnership focuses on enabling self-reliance, promoting education, and fostering social integration.

For Mercedes-Benz South Africa, this partnership represents a deep commitment not only to its corporate mission but also to the well-being of the communities it serves. Together, Mercedes-Benz and the Black Coffee Foundation will work in tandem, leveraging their strengths and resources to create a lasting impact.

As part of this collaboration, Mercedes-Benz South Africa has generously provided the Black Coffee Foundation with a Mercedes-Benz GLE and a Mercedes-Benz Vito. These vehicles will play a crucial role in helping the foundation achieve its goals and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

The Black Coffee Foundation, established in 2010, has been dedicated to providing aid, upliftment, and opportunities to South Africa’s underprivileged and differently abled populations. They do so by implementing sustainable, long-term initiatives that focus on education, independence, and social integration.

Mark Raine, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, also shared his enthusiasm for this partnership: “At Mercedes-Benz South Africa, we take immense pride in our collaboration with the Black Coffee Foundation. Together, we aim to not only bolster our reputation and brand image but also partner with other stakeholders to raise funds for socially impactful causes. We eagerly anticipate the transformative influence we will collectively generate with the Black Coffee Foundation.”

While you can read our First Impressions of the 2023 GLC 300 d here, let’s delve into the exciting features that were previously costed extras on the old GLC generation but are now included at no additional cost on the new GLC.

Avant-garde Styling Package

The Avant-garde Styling Package adds an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to the GLC’s exterior. It features distinctive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a diamond radiator grille with chrome pins. This package not only enhances the vehicle’s visual appeal but also underscores its premium status on the road.

Seat Comfort Package

Enhanced comfort takes center stage with the Seat Comfort Package. Designed to pamper occupants, this package offers additional features to elevate the seating experience. With adjustable lumbar support, electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, and improved cushioning, the GLC ensures a relaxed and ergonomic driving position, perfect for long journeys.

Heated Front Seats

With the inclusion of heated front seats, Mercedes-Benz ensures that chilly mornings and frosty winter days won’t hinder your comfort. The GLC’s heated seats provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere, keeping you warm and snug throughout your drive.

Active Park Assist with Parktronic

Navigating tight parking spaces becomes a breeze with the GLC’s Active Park Assist. This advanced system utilizes sensors to identify suitable parking spots and automatically steers the vehicle into position, leaving the driver in control of acceleration and braking. Coupled with the Parktronic feature, which provides audible and visual alerts when nearing obstacles, parking becomes stress-free and precise.

Active Lane Assist

Safety and convenience merge seamlessly with Active Lane Assist. This feature utilizes sensors and cameras to monitor lane markings and alerts the driver if they unintentionally deviate from their lane. By providing gentle corrective steering inputs, the GLC assists in maintaining a centered position, enhancing overall safety during highway driving.

Privacy Glass for Rear Passengers

The GLC understands the importance of privacy for rear-seat occupants. The inclusion of privacy glass creates a shield against prying eyes and harsh sunlight. Not only does it add a touch of exclusivity, but it also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.

Ambient Lighting

Elevating the interior ambiance, the GLC comes equipped with ambient lighting. This customizable feature allows you to select from a range of colors, creating a soothing and immersive atmosphere inside the cabin. Ambient lighting enhances the sense of luxury and adds a touch of personalization to your driving experience.

Parking Package with Reversing Camera

Maneuvering in tight spaces becomes effortless with the Parking Package, which includes a reversing camera. The camera provides a clear and dynamic view of the area behind the vehicle, making parking and reversing safer and more convenient. This feature is particularly useful in urban environments where visibility can be limited.

Mirror Package

The Mirror Package brings enhanced functionality and style to the GLC. It includes auto-dimming mirrors, which automatically adjust to reduce glare from headlights of following vehicles. Additionally, electrically folding exterior mirrors provide added convenience, allowing the driver to fold them in tight spaces or when parked to protect against accidental damage.

Wireless Charging for the Front Passenger and Driver

Embracing modern technology, the GLC comes equipped with wireless charging for the front passengers and driver. This feature enables convenient and cable-free charging of compatible smartphones, eliminating the hassle of dealing with tangled cords. With wireless charging, you can keep your devices powered up and ready to go throughout your journey.

With a starting price of around R1,211,220, it’s surprisingly accessible for a vehicle that proudly wears the three-pointed star. Compact SUVs are in high demand, and the GLC offers an enticing all-wheel drive option at a reasonable price, perfect for those with a thirst for adventure. But what really sets the new GLC apart is its infusion of cutting-edge technology inside the cabin, typically reserved for the more expensive Mercedes models, leaving the competition green with envy.

However, success can sometimes lead to complacency. While the GLC’s dashboard received a much-needed upgrade, the rest of the SUV remains quite familiar. The burning question is whether Mercedes has taken enough risks to truly make the 2023 GLC feel fresh and exciting.

Compared to its predecessor, the new GLC is slightly longer and lower, with a slightly wider track. The result is a more solid and grounded appearance, although it may take a keen eye to spot the differences between the two generations. But fear not, we’ll guide you through the subtle changes, starting with the front. The new grille now boasts a chrome surround and matching trim to the matte-grey louvers. If you opt for the AMG Line design package, you’ll even get the iconic Mercedes-Benz stars on the grille. The headlamps seamlessly connect with the grille surround, creating a visual impression of increased width.

Moving to the sides, you’ll notice the relocated mirrors, now mounted on the doors for improved aerodynamics and reduced wind noise in the cabin. The running boards have also been redesigned, tapering from front to rear. The 2023 GLC features new two-section rear lights and more chrome accents to highlight the exhaust surround. It’s clear that Mercedes aimed to strike a perfect balance between a hatchback and its larger SUVs, resulting in a design that is both appealing and distinctive. And let’s not forget the 18- to 20-inch wheels, with the larger size allowing for a spare wheel in the boot, a practical touch.

One standout feature of the GLC is its support for Mercedes’ Digital Light system, where the headlights are composed of individually-controllable pixels. It’s a remarkable innovation that adds a touch of futuristic flair.

While the plug-in hybrid variant won’t initially be available in South Africa, the local market will still enjoy the benefits of mild-hybrid engine technology in the GLC 220 d, GLC 300 d, and GLC 300 models. During our test drive, we experienced the GLC 300 d, equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 198 kW and 550 Nm of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, this 48v mild hybrid offers a smooth start/stop experience and an “EQ Boost” power boost of up to 17 kW and 200 Nm of torque, perfect for urban driving.

Don’t expect the GLC to be a high-performance SUV, though. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 243 km/h. The driving experience leans more towards enthusiasm rather than blistering speed. The suspension strikes a good balance between firmness and comfort, ensuring a composed ride even on uneven roads.

Interestingly, Mercedes emphasizes the GLC’s off-road capabilities. The SUV features a dedicated Off-Road mode and certain trims even come with a “transparent hood” feature, using the 360-degree camera to provide a magical view “under” the front of the SUV on the dashboard display. While it’s unlikely that GLC owners will venture off-road frequently, it’s a nice addition that sets the GLC apart from its rivals. The selective dampers on the steel suspension system enhance the drive modes, making the ride firmer in Sport mode. The GLC is neither boring nor excessively wild to drive, striking a balance that many will appreciate.

The most significant improvements in the GLC can be found inside the cabin. The previous model had a small touchscreen awkwardly placed above rows of vents and buttons, along with a touchpad interface on the center console. In the 2023 GLC, Mercedes has ditched all that in favor of a large touchscreen inspired by the S-Class. This new display utilizes the available space more effectively, resulting in a modern and user-friendly interface.

The latest version of MBUX, Mercedes’ intuitive infotainment system, is onboard, featuring useful and remarkably accurate voice recognition triggered by saying “Hey Mercedes.” The touchscreen provides easy access to common features, floating above a large map. Though it doesn’t boast the extravagant Hyperscreen display found in more expensive Mercedes models, the standard 11.9-inch portrait-aspect panel in the new GLC is more than sufficient.

The GLC’s interior also offers fingerprint authentication for different driver profiles, ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad, albeit in an awkward location in the lower dashboard cubby. The driver benefits from a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, delivering vital information in a sleek and modern manner. Everything feels snappy and well-organized, except for the new steering wheel, which features finicky touch-sensitive buttons that can be a nuisance. Swiping my thumbs to adjust the volume or cruise control speed often resulted in overshooting the desired settings.

Mercedes positions the GLC as a direct competitor to BMW’s X3, Audi’s Q5, and Lexus’ RX. In terms of dashboard gadgetry and exterior aesthetics, the GLC has the edge over all three. With a starting price below R1.2 million, it’s likely that premium SUV shoppers will find themselves unexpectedly considering a trip to the nearest Mercedes dealership. However, if you start adding more luxurious packages, the price can quickly climb towards the R1.45 million mark.

Looking ahead, Mercedes has yet to reveal details about AMG versions of the GLC, but we can anticipate their arrival. These models should address the GLC’s more mainstream driving dynamics, injecting some additional excitement without compromising its overall appeal.

Even before those future developments, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC is undeniably more refined than its predecessor. While the exterior changes may require some explanation, the significant upgrades inside the cabin make this small SUV feel larger than life compared to the competition.

Before we get there, if you loved my take on the new C-Class, you’ll love this review.

Let’s start with the exterior. The C43’s aerodynamic lines and sleek curves give it a dynamic and sporty appearance. The front grille is distinctive, and the aggressive air intakes provide not only a sporty look but also function to cool the engine. The rear of the car is equally impressive with a sporty bumper and twin tailpipes, completing the look of this striking machine.

Under the hood, the C43 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 300 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The C43 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, which is impressive for a car in its class. This is a second faster than the outgoing model by the way.

The top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. By adding the optional AMG Driver’s Package, it can be raised to 265 km/h.

But the C43 is not just about raw power. It’s also packed with cutting-edge technology, including a 10.25-inch infotainment system with voice recognition, a Burmester surround sound system, and a digital driver display. The car also features advanced driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

On the open road, the C43 handles beautifully. The suspension is perfectly tuned, providing a comfortable ride while still feeling sporty and responsive. The steering is precise, and the car feels well balanced in corners. The car’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, making it easy to control even on wet or slippery surfaces. There is one drawback though, the car seems to be track ready and track focussed at heart. When in comfort, it struggles to find and keep the appropriate gear, especially when driving in suburbia. But once you change it to Sport and Sport+, the C 43 is at its happiest. I’m not entirely sure whether that’s a drawback or not, but still, its just weird.

On the track, the C43 is a joy to drive. The car’s sporty nature really shines through, and the engine delivers ample power, while the chassis provides excellent handling. The brakes are strong and responsive, and the car feels well planted even at high speeds.

However, there are some negative aspects of the C43. The infotainment system can be a bit fiddly to use, and some of the interior materials feel a bit cheap. Additionally, the car is quite expensive, with a starting price of around R1,608,810  in South Africa. Comparing it with the likes of the BMW M340i, I’m super keen to see how many of these babies Mercedes manage to move.

In conclusion, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is a fantastic car. It’s a powerful and dynamic machine that’s packed with advanced technology, and it offers an exhilarating driving experience both on the road and on the track. While there are some downsides to the car, overall, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-performance luxury vehicle.

Its now official. Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa has confirmed that the the electrified 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter will launch in the country in 2024. Mind you, the eSprinter isn’t the firm’s first electric van, but it will be the first available in the South Africa.

While it’s aimed at commercial fleets rather than retail customers, the eSprinter is still an important vehicle.

The model may look the same as the outgoing Sprinter on the outside, but every mechanical component packed into the carryover chassis (shared with the internal-combustion Sprinter) is new.

The eSprinter launches in South Africa with a 113-kWh pack. The load capacity is 14 cubic metres, the permissible gross vehicle weight is up to 4.25 tonnes.

The electric range, based on a simulation using the WLTP cycle, will be up to 400 kilometres. Charging from 10 to 8% of full capacity takes around 28 minutes for the 56 kWh battery and around 42 minutes for the 113 kWh battery.

Complete model line-up and pricing will be confirmed closer to the launch date.

Launched earlier today in the North of Johannesburg, the Mercedes-Benz EQE is set to be the new business avant-garde. There will be two models introduced to the country, the EQE 350 priced at R1,800,000 and Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4MATIC priced at R2,200,000.

Compared to the luxury liner EQS, the EQE is even more streamlined, with a slightly shorter wheelbase, shorter overhangs and more recessed flanks – it carries the concept of the business saloon into the future, says Mercedes.

Specifications and technical data at a glance:

According to the presser issued earlier today, Mercedes-Benz South Africa will be introducing two variants of the EQE at launch, the EQE 350+ with 215 kW and 565 N. The EQE 350+ has a WLTP driving range of up to 645 km, while the Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 4MATIC is rated up to 535 km.

Unfortunately, as you read this, pricing for either models has not been released as yet. More information will be shared on 18 January 2023 when the local launch takes place.

Later this year, Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa will also introduce the EQE SUV and EQS SUV, bringing the local battery EV model range to a total of seven.

Our friends at Mercedes-Benz South Africa were kind enough to loan us the C220d variant for our December drive and this is just a preview to what’s to come. Yes, we’re going to be living with it for the next 3 weeks. We have plenty of drives lined-up so it only makes sense that we’re this splendidly frugal vehicle with us.

For those obsessed with numbers, like myself, this model is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine good for 440 Nm and 147 kW of power. Top speed is capped at 245 km/h, although there was never a need for us to go that fast in this limousine. Fuel economy during our drive down here to Port Alfred, was its best at just 4.2 litres per 100 km. A staggering feat if you ask me. Which then saw our fuel gauge give us an estimate of over 1400 km on a single fuel tank. Haibo! For real. Yup, the frugality of it all is why we opted for this machine.

Numbers aside, whenever there’s a new C-Class, its worth an extra-long look. Even if it might not be the most engaging sedan out there. Here its all about luxury and it exudes that from the first look.

Now, now, before I share way too much than what I’m supposed to, follow along with us as we journey the greater Garden Route and parts of the Western Cape with this C220d. As of this publishing, we just made it through the 1000 km break-in period. We’ll have proper driving impressions and all the other fun stuff for you soon.