Should you buy one?

On rational grounds, probably not. A Skoda Enyaq iV is roomier, rides better and costs less. However, that car lacks the premium kudos that the Mercedes-Benz enjoys – and that’s where the similarly-priced Audi Q4 E-Tron comes in. Compared with that, we’d take the more capable Audi.

However, the EQA is a very pleasant electric SUV that you could do worse than choosing if you’re after a relaxing, cosseting and refined ownership experience. It might have predictable styling and won’t win any races against a BMW iX3 or Volvo XC40 Recharge, but it has plenty of appeal, and it plays to the strengths that modern Mercedes-Benz models enjoy, namely an easy-to-use, but advanced interior and calm overall demeanour.

Mercedes-Benz has delivered a competent EV for those looking for a daily drive without dramas. But if you want a family-sized electric Mercedes-Benz SUV, we recommend paying a little more and going for the larger and more capable EQB.

What we like

We like the EQA’s styling, its high-tech cabin and its comfortable suspension and supportive seats. We also like that it’s quite good at not draining its battery too quickly in day-to-day use, and that it’s especially easy to drive around town.

What we don’t like

We don’t like that the space in the back seats and boot is pretty miserly. The ride is seriously unsettled on typical British back roads, only feeling comfortable on smooth motorways. It’s also quite expensive for what is, really, a relatively compact model. Rivals offer more space and range for a similar price.