Mercedes-Benz leads in luxury positioning and performance with higher average prices ($85,000-$120,000), while Audi offers better value with competitive technology at lower starting points ($40,000-$95,000). Mercedes emphasizes craftsmanship and heritage, whereas Audi focuses on innovation and interior design.
Mercedes-Benz vs Audi — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
German luxury automaker renowned for advanced technology, performance, and engineering innovation.
German luxury brand emphasizing technological innovation and all-wheel-drive mastery
Average Price Range. Brand Heritage. Global Sales (2024). Electric Vehicle Range (top model). Interior Technology. Warranty Coverage. Consumer Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2024)
Choose Mercedes-Benz if you prioritize heritage, prestige, and superior EV range, plus desire the most recognizable luxury brand globally. Choose Audi if you want competitive luxury features at lower price points, excellent interior design, and prefer value-driven performance with strong reliability ratings.
Mercedes-Benz: New S-Class with enhanced tech | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Software-defined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: GLC turbocharged refined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: MB Tech Stack state-of-the-art | Audi: MMI with AI voice control
Mercedes-Benz: Comfort-oriented refinement | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: EQS 400/550 4MATIC models | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Ultra-premium throughout | Audi: Premium leather, ambient lighting
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years standard | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 14+ models with EQS expansion | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4.6 seconds (C 43 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 14.4 inches (S-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 603 (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG combined (C-Class estimated) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLE 350 base) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L turbocharged) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles | Audi: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: Premium luxury pricing baseline | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3,580 lbs (C-Class est.) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Varies (not standard) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (M256 3.0L turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Nappa leather and Alcantara throughout | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3.9s (C63 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $49,500 (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $65,000 (2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Level 3 (Drive Pilot, limited markets) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 1,400+ dealerships | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 8 models | Audi: 6 models
Mercedes-Benz: 138 | Audi: 127 years (est. 1899)
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50k miles | Audi: 4 years/50k miles
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
Mercedes-Benz: 3.6s (C63 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (C300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12 (C, E, S-Class, CLA, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, EQE, EQS, EQC) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $55,800 (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Mercedes-AMG C63: 3.6s | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: C300: 23 mpg combined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: C-Class Sedan: 12.6 cu ft | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: EQE: 350 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: MBUX Hyperscreen (9.5/10) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: Optional (4MATIC) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: EQE, EQS, EQC (strong) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 sec | Audi: 6.2 seconds
Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG GT 63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 456 miles (EQS 580) | Audi: N/A
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 5.0 (Average) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 9-speed automatic | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $1,680 (mid-size luxury) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3 years / 36,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches (MBUX standard) | Audi: 10.1 inches (MMI Touch)
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50,000 miles | Audi: 4 years/50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: Smooth, comfort-focused | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 149 mph (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 312 miles (EQS 450+) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years / 50k miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (founded 1926) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 6+ EV models across segments | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 40,000+ (Drive Pilot) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (2.0L Turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 23 MPG combined | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 125 years (founded 1901) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 2.9 sec (AMG GT) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5+ (EQE, EQS, EQE SUV, EQC, EQA) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $55,000 (C-Class base, 2024) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with ChatGPT integration (2024+) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $108,000 (S-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580e) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 150+ countries | Audi: 100+
Mercedes-Benz: 402 hp (C43 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4.6s (C43 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5 models (EQE, EQS, EQG, EQE SUV, EQS SUV) | Audi: 6 (e-tron/Q4 e-tron lineup)
Mercedes-Benz: 630 hp (AMG 63 E Performance) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 28 mpg (C300 2.0L turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 48 months/50,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4.3 (C63 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 of 11 lineup | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 9 models (4 hybrid + 5 EV) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $45,650 (C 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $65,900 (GLE 350) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C 63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 453 miles (EQS 580 4MATIC) | Audi: N/A
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
Mercedes-Benz: 4yr / 50,000 mi | Audi: 4yr / 50,000 mi
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
Mercedes-Benz: Nappa (standard on most trims) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 8 EV models (EQE, EQS, EQC, EQA, EQE SUV, EQS SUV, EQG coming) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: ~3,500 dealerships | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $43,250 (C-Class, 2024) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (Compact, Sedan, SUV, Coupe, Cabriolet, AMG Performance, Maybach Ultra-Luxury, EV lines) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches | Audi: 10.1 inches
Mercedes-Benz: 36.2 inches | Audi: 32.8 inches
Mercedes-Benz: 139 years | Audi: 118 years
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
Mercedes-Benz: Hand-stitched Nappa leather, ambient lighting | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 435 miles (EQS 580) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3.8 seconds (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 186 mph (AMG E63 S) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 21 mpg (E350) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11 (C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLA, GLC, GLE, GLA, C63 AMG, EQC, Maybach, SL) | Audi: N/A
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Model)
Mercedes-Benz: 3.4 seconds (AMG C63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 260 miles (EQE 53 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $47,900 (C-Class) | Audi: $45,400
Mercedes-Benz: 400,000 (public network partnerships) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 22 minutes (250 kW DC charging) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 170+ countries | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (Founded 1926) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 25 MPG (2024 C-Class base) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 4 years/50,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Estimated Resale Value Retention (3-Year)
Mercedes-Benz: 603 hp (E53 AMG) | Audi: N/A
Average Resale Value Retention (3 years)
Consumer Reports Overall Reliability Rating
Mercedes-Benz: Average | Audi: Above Average
Mercedes-Benz: 4MATIC standard on select models | Audi: Quattro standard on most models
Mercedes-Benz: MBUX with AI and predictive navigation | Audi: MMI 8 with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto
Mercedes-Benz: ~740,000 | Audi: 1.6 million
Mercedes-Benz: 15+ models across all powertrains | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 50% EV sales target by 2030 | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (GLC 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 5.9 seconds (GLC 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 22 mpg (GLC 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches (MBUX) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 535 km (EQS 450+) | Audi: 487 km (e-tron GT)
Mercedes-Benz: 2.35 million (2024) | Audi: 1.98 million (2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3-inch MBUX | Audi: 12.3-inch MMI (top models)
Mercedes-Benz: 585 HP (AMG C63) | Audi: 592 HP (RS 6 Avant)
Mercedes-Benz: 7.2 L/100km (C300 manual) | Audi: 7.0 L/100km (A4 40 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz: 825 points | Audi: 828 points
Mercedes-Benz: 5.8 sec (C300 2024) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12+ (sedans, SUVs, AMG, EQ-series) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 260 (EQE 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches | Audi: 10.1" MMI
Average Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 inches OLED | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 28 MPG (C300 base) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 621 (AMG E63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 100 years (1926) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 33 MPG (C 300) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 0.1s (9-speed automatic) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 17.5:1 (E-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.6 cu ft (E-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 35 dB (C-Class) | Audi: N/A
Transmission Failure Rate (10-year lifespan)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating 2024
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (avg mid-size sedan)
Mercedes-Benz: $16,380 repairs + maintenance | Audi: N/A
Starting Price (2026 3-Series vs C-Class)
Mercedes-Benz: 26 (C-Class Turbo) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 402 (AMG C43) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 10 years / 100,000 | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12.3 inches dual | Audi: 10.1-12.3 inches
Flagship Model Price (911 Turbo S / S-Class 580)
Mercedes-Benz: 3.6 (AMG C63) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 180 (S-Class 580) | Audi: N/A
Infotainment System Display Size (Standard)
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9 (MBUX Hyperscreen) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 6.5 seconds (GLE 450) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 3-4 years / 50,000-60,000 miles | Audi: N/A
Customer Satisfaction (Net Promoter Score)
Mercedes-Benz: $50,000-$75,000 (C-Class/E-Class) | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 12+ dedicated models | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: 11.9-12.3 inches | Audi: 12.3 inches
Mercedes-Benz: 200+ countries | Audi: N/A
Mercedes-Benz: $3,800 (gasoline) | Audi: N/A
Base Model Starting Price (C-Class/A4 Segment)
Mercedes-Benz: 255 hp (C300) | Audi: 201 hp (A4 2.0T)
Mercedes-Benz: 12 models | Audi: 8 models
Mercedes-Benz: 2-3 updates | Audi: 4-6 updates
Mercedes-Benz: 11.6 OLED | Audi: 10.1 LCD
Mercedes-Benz: 8+ (EQE, EQS, EQG, etc.) | Audi: N/A
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-5)
Reported Problems per 100 Vehicles (Year 1)
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (Maintenance + Repairs)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q3: 3,800 lbs
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: RS models: 3.6 seconds
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q4 e-tron: 105 MPGe estimated
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5 SUVs (Q2, Q3, Q4, Q7, Q9)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Virtual Cockpit Plus: 1920x720
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q7 TFSI e: 456 hp
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5-star equivalent modern systems
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Q4 e-tron: 275 miles
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 591 hp (RS6 Avant)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: ~40% of lineup
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5.3 sec (A6 55 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 4-cylinder turbo, V6 turbo, hybrid, PHEV, EV options
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 456 miles (e-tron GT)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Sport Model)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 5.7 seconds (A4 45 TFSI)
Combined Fuel Efficiency (Mid-Size Sedan)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Not offered (gas engines only)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 261 hp (40 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 68 dB @ 70 mph
0-60 mph Acceleration (Sedan Comparison)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 6.8 sec (A4 2.0T)
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 28 MPG combined
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: Standard on most trims
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: $550-650 annual
Mercedes-Benz: N/A | Audi: 650 dealerships
How to choose between Mercedes-Benz and Audi
Mercedes-Benz vs Audi — Structured Comparison Data
Machine-readable comparison dataset for Mercedes-Benz vs Audi. Contains 474 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
Mercedes-Benz vs Audi — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Mercedes-Benz vs Audi.
Which is more expensive, Mercedes-Benz or Audi?
Mercedes-Benz generally commands higher prices than Audi across comparable segments. Entry-level Mercedes models like the A-Class start around $35,000, while equivalent Audi A3 models begin near $34,000. At the luxury tier, Mercedes S-Class exceeds $115,000 compared to Audi A8 starting around $90,000. However, Audi often delivers more standard technology features per dollar, making it stronger on value. Mercedes charges a premium for its brand prestige, cabin opulence, and advanced safety systems. Total ownership costs, including insurance and maintenance, also tend to run slightly higher for Mercedes-Benz than Audi.
Neither brand is objectively better — it depends on your priorities. Mercedes-Benz excels in interior luxury, ride comfort, and brand prestige, making it ideal for buyers who prioritize a plush, refined driving experience. Audi counters with superior Quattro all-wheel-drive technology, a more driver-focused cockpit, and cutting-edge virtual displays. Reliability ratings from J.D. Power show both brands performing similarly in recent years. Mercedes leads in flagship sedan and SUV segments, while Audi earns praise for its sportier models and tech-forward interiors. Test-driving both is strongly recommended before deciding.
Which is better for long road trips, Mercedes-Benz or Audi?
Mercedes-Benz is widely considered the better choice for long road trips due to its exceptionally smooth ride quality, superior noise insulation, and highly adjustable air suspension available on models like the E-Class and S-Class. The MBUX infotainment system also offers intuitive navigation with real-time traffic updates. Audi's Virtual Cockpit provides excellent driver information, and its Quattro AWD offers added confidence on varied terrain. However, Mercedes' focus on passenger comfort, available massage seats, and longer highway refinement gives it a notable edge for extended distance driving.
What are the key updates for Mercedes-Benz and Audi in 2026?
For 2026, Mercedes-Benz is rolling out an updated MBUX Superscreen interface across more model lines, expanded Mercedes me connectivity features, and new mild-hybrid powertrains for the C-Class and GLC. The EQ electric lineup also receives increased range improvements. Audi's 2026 updates include a refreshed A5 lineup replacing the discontinued A4, broader availability of its Premium Plus driver assistance suite, and continued expansion of the Q6 e-tron electric SUV family. Both brands are heavily investing in electrification and over-the-air software update capabilities to stay competitive in the evolving luxury market.
Which brand is better for first-time luxury car buyers, Mercedes-Benz or Audi?
Audi is often recommended for first-time luxury car buyers due to its more approachable pricing, intuitive technology interfaces, and strong resale value retention. The Audi A3 and Q3 offer genuine premium experiences without overwhelming complexity. Mercedes-Benz provides an equally compelling entry through its A-Class and GLA SUV, but the MBUX learning curve and higher maintenance costs can surprise new owners. Audi's dealership customer satisfaction scores also rank slightly higher for ownership experience. Ultimately, both brands offer certified pre-owned programs that make first-time luxury ownership more financially accessible and less risky.
How to Choose Between Mercedes-Benz and Audi
Average Price Range: Mercedes-Benz has $85,000 - $120,000, while Audi has $40,000 - $95,000.
Brand Heritage: Mercedes-Benz has Founded 1886, oldest auto manufacturer, while Audi has Founded 1909, part of Volkswagen Group since 1966.
Global Sales (2024): Mercedes-Benz has 2.35 million vehicles, while Audi has 1.98 million vehicles.
Consider: Electric Vehicle Range (top model)
Electric Vehicle Range (top model): Mercedes-Benz has EQS: 535 km (333 miles), while Audi has e-tron GT: 487 km (303 miles).
Interior Technology: Mercedes-Benz has MBUX with 12.3-inch touchscreen, while Audi has MMI with 10.1-12.3-inch touchscreen.
Warranty Coverage: Mercedes-Benz has 3 years/100,000 km, while Audi has 3 years/100,000 km.
Consider: Consumer Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2024)
Consumer Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2024): Mercedes-Benz has 825 points, while Audi has 828 points.
Mercedes-Benz leads in luxury positioning and performance with higher average prices ($85,000-$120,000), while Audi offers better value with competitive technology at lower starting points ($40,000-$95,000). Mercedes emphasizes craftsmanship and heritage, whereas Audi focuses on innovation and inter