MERCEDES-BENZ EQT

Renault provides van platform and electric powertrain for plush new compact MPV

- GEORGE BARROW

Cars based on vans have been commonplace for a long time, but the popularity of peoplemoving Citroën Berlingos and the like - dog cars, I like to call them - is on the wane in sales terms, due to the rise of SUVs. Which makes the new Mercedes EQT a curious thing.

Being derived from the recently introduced T-Class (which is the passenger version of the secondgeneration Citan compact van) means the EQT shares its platform with the Renault Kangoo, and in fact it's built by the French company in Maubeuge.

The single front-mounted 122bhp electric motor and 45kWh battery are also familiar, coming from the eCitan and Kangoo E-Tech, and in this application are officially enough for a range of 175 miles.

Charging can occur at rates of up to 80kW, taking the EQT from 10-80% in as little as 38 minutes.

Prices are expected to start at about £48,000, for which you will get the Advanced Plus trim level, including either a yellow or high-gloss black interior theme, chrome detailing, ambient lighting, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, height-adjustable front seats, a reversing camera and rear parking sensors.