# Mercedes EQC — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Mercedes EQC on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mercedes-eqc

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: AMG Line Premium
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £24,000

## Why this model

The Mercedes EQC is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a luxurious, comfortable, and powerful electric SUV. It offers that classic Mercedes quality feel inside, with a smooth and quiet ride that makes longer journeys a breeze. The 80kWh usable battery, which is liquid-cooled for better longevity, provides a decent real-world range, making it practical for most daily driving and even longer trips with a bit of planning. It's a premium EV that has seen significant depreciation, making it much more affordable on the used market now.

## What you should pay

Used EQC prices have fallen quite a bit since new, especially with the wider EV market adjustments. For a 2020 model with around 30,000-50,000 miles, you should be looking to pay in the range of £22,000-£26,000. This is a significant drop from its original price, offering great value for a premium electric SUV. Compared to a 2020 Audi e-tron at around £26,000, the EQC often offers similar luxury for a slightly lower price point, making it a compelling option.

## Which trim to buy

The AMG Line Premium trim hits a sweet spot for value. It builds on the already well-equipped AMG Line by adding desirable features like a larger media display, a premium sound system, augmented reality navigation, and a 360-degree camera. These extras significantly enhance the driving experience and comfort without pushing the price up as much as the top-tier Premium Plus, which often adds features you might not use daily. It feels luxurious and modern without breaking the bank on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- Software glitches (infotainment, app connectivity)
- 12V battery drain (can leave the car immobilised)
- Faster tyre wear due to vehicle weight and instant torque
- Potential charging port issues (less common, but reported)

## Running costs

Running an EQC can be very cost-effective, especially if you charge at home. Based on real-world efficiency of about 2.5 mi/kWh: at a standard home rate (24.5p/kWh), it's about 9.7p/mile, costing around £970 a year for 10,000 miles. However, if you switch to a smart EV tariff like Octopus Go or Intelligent Octopus (around 9p/kWh overnight), your costs drop to about 3.6p/mile, or roughly £356 a year for 10,000 miles – saving you over £600 annually! Road tax for EVs is free until April 2025, then it's £195 per year. Insurance will be on the higher side due to it being a premium EV, likely ranging from £800-£1,500+ depending on your personal circumstances.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Electric
- **Horsepower**: 402 hp
- **Mpg**: 2.5 mi/kWh (real-world efficiency)
- **Reliability Score**: Good, but watch for early software quirks
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2019)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| AMG Line | £65,000 | £22,000 | MBUX infotainment system with voice control; 19-inch AMG alloy wheels; LED headlights |
| AMG Line Premium | £70,000 | £24,000 | All AMG Line features plus:; Larger 10.25-inch media display; Burmester surround sound system |
| AMG Line Premium Plus | £75,000 | £26,500 | All AMG Line Premium features plus:; Electric sliding sunroof; Multibeam LED headlights |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £24,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £20,400 | 85% |
| 2028 | £18,000 | 75% |
| 2029 | £16,200 | 67.5% |
| 2030 | £14,900 | 62.1% |

Buying a 2020 EQC in 2026 means you're getting a car that has already taken a significant hit in depreciation from its new price. The steepest part of the depreciation curve has passed, so while it will continue to lose value, the rate of loss should be slower than in its first few years. This makes it a 'sweet spot' for a used buyer, as you get a luxury EV at a much more accessible price point.

Total value lost since new: 37.9%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Audi e-tron](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/audi-e-tron.md)
- [Jaguar I-Pace](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/jaguar-i-pace.md)
- [BMW iX3](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/bmw-ix3.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.
