Mercedes-Benz commands higher price points and brand prestige with stronger resale values averaging 55-60%, while Audi offers better technology integration and more affordable entry points, with average resale values of 50-55% after 3 years.
Audi vs Mercedes-Benz — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Mercedes-Benz wins for buyers prioritizing prestige, resale value, and brand heritage, with superior market position and customer satisfaction scores of 84/100. Choose Audi if you value cutting-edge infotainment technology, lower entry prices, and reduced maintenance costs—the MMI Plus system scores 8.2/10 versus Mercedes' 7.8/10 on usability.
German luxury automaker known for performance, design innovation, and advanced turbocharged powertrains.
German luxury automaker offering diverse vehicle segments with advanced technology, comfort, and accessible pricing across all classes.
Average Starting Price (Entry Luxury Sedan)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-5)
Global Luxury Vehicle Market Share (2024)
Structured comparison data for Audi vs Mercedes-Benz with 409 attributes.
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (After Warranty)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Sport Model)
Consumer Reports Overall Reliability Rating
Combined Fuel Efficiency (Mid-Size Sedan)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Flagship)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating (2024)
Customer Satisfaction Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Average Annual Maintenance Cost (Years 1-3)
Interior Material Standard (Leather Type)
Combined Fuel Economy (Sedan Base Model)
0-60 mph Acceleration (Performance Model)
Estimated Resale Value Retention (3-Year)
Average Resale Value Retention (3 years)
Average Reliability Rating (J.D. Power 2024)
Transmission Failure Rate (10-year lifespan)
Consumer Reports Reliability Rating 2024
Total 10-Year Ownership Cost (avg mid-size sedan)
Starting Price (2026 3-Series vs C-Class)
Flagship Model Price (911 Turbo S / S-Class 580)
Infotainment System Display Size (Standard)
Audi vs Mercedes-Benz — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Audi vs Mercedes-Benz.
Which brand holds its value better, Audi or Mercedes-Benz?
Mercedes-Benz typically holds its resale value slightly better than Audi, particularly in the luxury sedan and SUV segments, though both depreciate similarly in their first three years. Audi's residual values have improved significantly in recent years, especially for popular models like the A4 and Q5, making the gap between the two brands narrower than it was historically. Your specific model choice and market conditions matter more than brand alone when considering long-term value retention.
Is Audi or Mercedes-Benz more reliable for long-term ownership?
Both brands have comparable reliability ratings, with Mercedes-Benz and Audi performing similarly in major reliability studies for 2024-2026 model years, though both fall slightly behind Japanese luxury brands. Audi vehicles often have lower average repair costs, while Mercedes-Benz service can be more expensive but offers slightly more extensive warranty coverage on newer models. Regular maintenance at authorized dealerships is critical for both brands to ensure dependability beyond 100,000 miles.
Which offers better technology and infotainment, Audi or Mercedes-Benz?
Mercedes-Benz's MBUX system is widely regarded as more intuitive and feature-rich, with superior voice recognition and integrated AI capabilities in 2026 models, while Audi's MMI system is equally responsive but less advanced overall. Audi provides better standard smartphone integration and quicker software updates across its lineup, making it appealing to tech-focused buyers. The choice depends on whether you prioritize cutting-edge AI features (Mercedes) or seamless phone connectivity and update frequency (Audi).