Audi Q5 vs Mercedes GLE 2026: Price, Space, Fuel Economy
The Mercedes-Benz GLE offers more interior space (84.3 cu ft vs 60.3 cu ft cargo) and advanced technology, while the Audi Q5 delivers better fuel efficiency (28 MPG combined vs 24 MPG) and a lower starting price ($47,550 vs $59,650). The GLE is the larger luxury SUV; the Q5 is the more efficient, value-conscious choice.
Audi Q5
Compact luxury SUV with strong efficiency and performance at an accessible price point.
Budget-conscious luxury SUV buyers, urban drivers, couples, and small families seeking efficiency and performance without premium pricing.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Midsize luxury SUV with three-row seating, spacious interior, and cutting-edge technology.
Families needing three-row seating, luxury-first buyers unconcerned with cost, those prioritizing space and advanced technology over fuel efficiency.
Quick Answer
AI SummaryThe Mercedes-Benz GLE offers more interior space (84.3 cu ft vs 60.3 cu ft cargo) and advanced technology, while the Audi Q5 delivers better fuel efficiency (28 MPG combined vs 24 MPG) and a lower starting price ($47,550 vs $59,650). The GLE is the larger luxury SUV; the Q5 is the more efficient, value-conscious choice.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose the Audi Q5 if you prioritize fuel efficiency, faster acceleration, lower cost of entry, and a compact luxury SUV that's easier to maneuver and park. Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLE if you need a three-row SUV with significantly more cargo and passenger space, advanced luxury technology, and don't mind spending $12,100 more for a larger, more commanding presence.
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TIE — neck and neck
Choose Audi Q5 if
Budget-conscious luxury SUV buyers, urban drivers, couples, and small families seeking efficiency and performance without premium pricing.
Choose Mercedes-Benz GLE if
Families needing three-row seating, luxury-first buyers unconcerned with cost, those prioritizing space and advanced technology over fuel efficiency.
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Starting Price:✓ Audi Q5 wins($47,550 vs $59,650)
- Cargo Space:✓ Mercedes-Benz GLE wins(84.3 cu ft vs 60.3 cu ft)
- Combined Fuel Economy:✓ Audi Q5 wins(28 MPG vs 24 MPG)
Key Facts & Figures
89 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Audi Q5 | Mercedes-Benz GLE | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Power Output(hp) | 201 hp | — | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 23 MPG | 20 mpg | |
| Cargo Capacity(cubic feet) | 28.8 cu ft | — | — |
| Infotainment Touchscreen Size(inches) | 10.1 inches | — | — |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) | 6.8 seconds | 6.2 sec (GLE 53) | |
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | 7,700 lbs (AMG models) | |
| Annual Fuel Cost Estimate(USD) | $1,450 | — | — |
| Starting Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) | $45,900 | — | — |
| Combined Fuel Economy (base model)(MPG) | 28 MPG | — | — |
| 0-60 Acceleration (base 2.0T)(seconds) | 6.3 seconds | — | — |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)(cu ft) | 28.8 cu ft | 28.0 cu ft | |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 10.1-inch LCD | 12.3 inches (MBUX) | |
| Horsepower (base 2.0T engine)(hp) | 261 hp | — | — |
| Torque (base 2.0T engine)(lb-ft) | 273 lb-ft | — | — |
| Towing Capacity(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | — | — |
| Starting MSRP(USD) | $47,550 | $59,650 | |
| Cargo Space (Seats Folded)(cubic feet) | 60.3 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | |
| Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 28 MPG | 24 MPG | |
| Engine Displacement (Standard)(liters) | 2.0L turbocharged | 2.0L turbocharged | |
| Horsepower (Standard)(hp) | 261 hp | 255 hp | |
| 0-60 Acceleration(seconds) | 6.1 sec | 6.8 sec | |
| Wheelbase(inches) | 112.5 in | 120.5 in | |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 35.7 in | 38.4 in | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (3.0L Base Engine)(seconds) | 5.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds | |
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 84.3 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | |
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 1.2 seconds | 1.2 seconds | |
| Base Engine Displacement(liters) | 3.0L Turbo | 3.0L Turbo | |
| Base Model Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $65,400 | $65,400 | |
| Horsepower (3.0L Base Engine)(HP) | 362 HP | 362 HP | |
| Panoramic Sunroof Size(square inches) | 54.8 sq in | 54.8 sq in | |
| Engine Displacement (Top Model)(liters) | 3.0L Twin-Turbo + EQ | 3.0L Twin-Turbo + EQ | |
| Maximum Horsepower(HP) | 580 HP (AMG GLE 580) | 580 HP (AMG GLE 580) | |
| Base MSRP(USD) | $68,900 | $68,900 | |
| Touchscreen Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (standard, 4K optional) | 12.3 inches (standard, 4K optional) | |
| Curb Weight(lbs) | 4,740 lbs (GLE 53) | 4,740 lbs (GLE 53) | |
| Base Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) | $77,900 | $77,900 | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (AMG/T8)(seconds) | 5.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds | |
| PHEV Electric Range(miles (EPA)) | 0 miles (gas-only) | 0 miles (gas-only) | |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cubic feet) | 21.7 cubic feet | 21.7 cubic feet | |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) | |
| Engine Power (Base Model)(hp) | 383 hp | 383 hp | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) | 6.9 seconds (GLE 350d) | 6.9 seconds (GLE 350d) | |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $74,900 | $74,900 | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (base AWD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | |
| Curb Weight (Base Model)(pounds) | 4,685 lbs | 4,685 lbs | |
| Seating Capacity (Max Configuration)(passengers) | 7 passengers | 7 passengers | |
| Maximum Engine Power(hp) | 580 hp (AMG GLE 580) | 580 hp (AMG GLE 580) | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (base AWD)(seconds) | 5.8 seconds | 5.8 seconds | |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) | 22 mpg combined | 22 mpg combined | |
| Cabin Noise at Highway Speed(dB) | 71 dB (quieter) | 71 dB (quieter) | |
| Starting MSRP (2025)(USD) | $78,450 | $78,450 | |
| Standard Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 | 5 | |
| Fuel Efficiency (EPA Combined)(MPG) | 24 MPG | 24 MPG | |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 84 cu ft | 84 cu ft | |
| Starting Price (2025)(USD) | $65,250 | $65,250 | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (High-Performance)(seconds) | 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) | 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) | |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | 37.8 inches | |
| Towing Capacity (Standard)(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | 4,400 lbs | |
| Starting Price(USD) | $88,550 | $88,550 | |
| Main Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches + 11.6 inches | 12.3 inches + 11.6 inches | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Base Gasoline)(seconds) | 6.2 seconds | 6.2 seconds | |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Base Gasoline)(MPG combined) | 24 MPG | 24 MPG | |
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 7 passengers | 7 passengers | |
| Brand Market Presence (Years in Luxury)(years) | 140+ years (Mercedes founded 1883) | 140+ years (Mercedes founded 1883) | |
| Starting Price (2025 Model Year)(USD) | $67,500 | $67,500 | |
| Peak Engine Power (Top Model)(horsepower) | 516 hp | 516 hp | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base 4.0L V8)(mpg) | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seat)(cubic feet) | 21.8 cu ft | 21.8 cu ft | |
| Standard Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches | |
| Engine Displacement (Base Model)(cc) | 2,999 cc (3.0L turbocharged) | 2,999 cc (3.0L turbocharged) | |
| Base Model Horsepower(hp) | 362 hp | 362 hp | |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration (Top Model)(seconds) | 5.8 seconds (GLE 580) | 5.8 seconds (GLE 580) | |
| Interior Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cu ft) | 84.3 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | |
| Infotainment Center Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (MBUX with AI) | 12.3 inches (MBUX with AI) | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Standard)(seconds) | 5.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds | |
| Rear Headroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | 37.8 inches | |
| Maximum Power Output(hp) | 503 hp (AMG 53) | 503 hp (AMG 53) | |
| Standard Infotainment Screen(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches | |
| Base Engine Power(hp) | 258 hp (GLE 350d) | 258 hp (GLE 350d) | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Top Performance Variant)(seconds) | 4.6 seconds (GLE 580) | 4.6 seconds (GLE 580) | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Diesel)(mpg) | 26 mpg (GLE 350d) | 26 mpg (GLE 350d) | |
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $80,650 | $80,650 | |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats)(liters) | 645L | 645L | |
| Cabin Noise at 70 mph Highway(dB (decibels)) | 64 dB | 64 dB | |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | $64,550 | $64,550 | |
| Base Model Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 23.4 MPG (GLE 350d diesel) | 23.4 MPG (GLE 350d diesel) | |
| Standard Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen) | 12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen) | |
| Cargo Space (Third Row Folded)(cubic feet) | 76.6 cu ft | 76.6 cu ft | |
| Standard Number of Seats(seats) | 7 seats (optional 4-seat) | 7 seats (optional 4-seat) |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
- $47,550(winner)Starting Price$59,650
- 60.3 cu ftCargo Space84.3 cu ft(winner)
- 28 MPG(winner)Combined Fuel Economy24 MPG
- 112.5 inchesWheelbase Length120.5 inches(winner)
- 261 hp(winner)Engine Power (Standard)255 hp
- 6.1 seconds(winner)0-60 Acceleration6.8 seconds
- 4 years/50,000 milesWarranty Coverage4 years/50,000 miles
- Starting Price
Audi Q5
$47,550(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
$59,650
- Cargo Space
Audi Q5
60.3 cu ft
Mercedes-Benz GLE
84.3 cu ft(winner)
- Combined Fuel Economy
Audi Q5
28 MPG(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
24 MPG
- Wheelbase Length
Audi Q5
112.5 inches
Mercedes-Benz GLE
120.5 inches(winner)
- Engine Power (Standard)
Audi Q5
261 hp(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
255 hp
- 0-60 Acceleration
Audi Q5
6.1 seconds(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
6.8 seconds
- Warranty Coverage
Audi Q5
4 years/50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz GLE
4 years/50,000 miles
Full Comparison
| Attribute | Audi Q5 | Mercedes-Benz GLE |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Power Output(hp) | 201 hp | — |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) | 6.8 seconds | 6.2 sec (GLE 53)(winner) |
| 0-60 Acceleration (base 2.0T)(seconds) | 6.3 seconds | — |
| Horsepower (base 2.0T engine)(hp) | 261 hp | — |
| Torque (base 2.0T engine)(lb-ft) | 273 lb-ft | — |
Show 19 more attributes0-60 Acceleration(seconds) 6.1 sec 6.8 sec 0-60 Acceleration (3.0L Base Engine)(seconds) 5.9 seconds — Base Engine Displacement(liters) 3.0L Turbo — Horsepower (3.0L Base Engine)(HP) 362 HP — Engine Displacement (Top Model)(liters) 3.0L Twin-Turbo + EQ — Maximum Horsepower(HP) 580 HP (AMG GLE 580) — 0-60 Acceleration (AMG/T8)(seconds) 5.5 seconds — Engine Power (Base Model)(hp) 383 hp — 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) 6.9 seconds (GLE 350d) — Maximum Engine Power(hp) 580 hp (AMG GLE 580) — 0-60 mph Acceleration (base AWD)(seconds) 5.8 seconds — 0-60 Acceleration (High-Performance)(seconds) 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) — 0-60 Acceleration (Base Gasoline)(seconds) 6.2 seconds — Peak Engine Power (Top Model)(horsepower) 516 hp — 0-60 MPH Acceleration (Top Model)(seconds) 5.8 seconds (GLE 580) — 0-60 Acceleration (Standard)(seconds) 5.9 seconds — Maximum Power Output(hp) 503 hp (AMG 53) — Base Engine Power(hp) 258 hp (GLE 350d) — 0-60 mph Acceleration (Top Performance Variant)(seconds) 4.6 seconds (GLE 580) — | ||
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 23 MPG(winner) | 20 mpg |
| Combined Fuel Economy (base model)(MPG) | 28 MPG | — |
| Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 28 MPG(winner) | 24 MPG |
| PHEV Electric Range(miles (EPA)) | 0 miles (gas-only) | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (base AWD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | — |
Show 6 more attributesEPA Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) 22 mpg combined — Fuel Efficiency (EPA Combined)(MPG) 24 MPG — EPA Fuel Economy (Base Gasoline)(MPG combined) 24 MPG — EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base 4.0L V8)(mpg) 21 mpg — EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Diesel)(mpg) 26 mpg (GLE 350d) — Base Model Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) 23.4 MPG (GLE 350d diesel) — | ||
| Cargo Capacity(cubic feet) | 28.8 cu ft | — |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)(cu ft) | 28.8 cu ft(winner) | 28.0 cu ft |
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 84.3 cu ft | — |
| Seating Capacity (Max Configuration)(passengers) | 7 passengers | — |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 84 cu ft | — |
Show 2 more attributesCargo Volume (Behind Rear Seat)(cubic feet) 21.8 cu ft — Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats)(liters) 645L — | ||
| Infotainment Touchscreen Size(inches) | 10.1 inches | — |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 10.1-inch LCD | 12.3 inches (MBUX)(winner) |
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 1.2 seconds | — |
| Touchscreen Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (standard, 4K optional) | — |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) | — |
Show 5 more attributesMain Infotainment Display Size(inches) 12.3 inches + 11.6 inches — Standard Infotainment Screen Size(inches) 12.3 inches — Infotainment Center Screen Size(inches) 12.3 inches (MBUX with AI) — Standard Infotainment Screen(inches) 12.3 inches — Standard Infotainment Display Size(inches) 12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen) — | ||
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | 7,700 lbs (AMG models)(winner) |
| Towing Capacity(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | — |
| Towing Capacity (Standard)(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | — |
| Annual Fuel Cost Estimate(USD) | $1,450 | — |
| Starting Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) | $45,900 | — |
| Starting MSRP(USD) | $47,550(winner) | $59,650 |
| Base Model Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $65,400 | — |
| Base Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) | $77,900 | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $74,900 | — |
Show 3 more attributesStarting MSRP (2025)(USD) $78,450 — Starting Price (2025 Model Year)(USD) $67,500 — Starting Price (2026)(USD) $80,650 — | ||
| Cargo Space (Seats Folded)(cubic feet) | 60.3 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft(winner) |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 35.7 in | 38.4 in(winner) |
| Rear Headroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | — |
| Engine Displacement (Standard)(liters) | 2.0L turbocharged | 2.0L turbocharged |
| Horsepower (Standard)(hp) | 261 hp(winner) | 255 hp |
| Wheelbase(inches) | 112.5 in | 120.5 in(winner) |
| Panoramic Sunroof Size(square inches) | 54.8 sq in | — |
| Base MSRP(USD) | $68,900 | — |
| Starting Price (2025)(USD) | $65,250 | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $88,550 | — |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | $64,550 | — |
| Curb Weight(lbs) | 4,740 lbs (GLE 53) | — |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cubic feet) | 21.7 cubic feet | — |
| Standard Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 | — |
| Interior Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cu ft) | 84.3 cu ft | — |
| Standard Seating Configuration(seats) | 5 seats standard (7-seat optional) | — |
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 7 passengers | — |
| Cargo Space (Third Row Folded)(cubic feet) | 76.6 cu ft | — |
| Standard Number of Seats(seats) | 7 seats (optional 4-seat) | — |
| IIHS Safety Rating (2025)(award status) | Top Safety Pick | — |
| Curb Weight (Base Model)(pounds) | 4,685 lbs | — |
| Cabin Noise at Highway Speed(dB) | 71 dB (quieter) | — |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | — |
| Cabin Noise at 70 mph Highway(dB (decibels)) | 64 dB | — |
| Powertrain Warranty(years/miles) | 4 years / 50,000 miles | — |
| Warranty Coverage (Bumper-to-Bumper)(years/miles) | 4 years/50,000 miles | — |
| Brand Market Presence (Years in Luxury)(years) | 140+ years (Mercedes founded 1883) | — |
| Engine Displacement (Base Model)(cc) | 2,999 cc (3.0L turbocharged) | — |
| Base Model Horsepower(hp) | 362 hp | — |
| Standard Warranty Coverage(years/miles) | 4 years/50k miles | — |
Audi Q5Mercedes-Benz GLEShow 19 more attributes
Show 6 more attributes
Show 2 more attributes
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Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
Audi Q5
Pros
- Starting price of $47,550 — $12,100 cheaper than GLE
- 28 MPG combined fuel economy — 14% better efficiency
- 261 hp standard engine with 6.1-second 0-60 acceleration
- Available Matrix LED headlights with pixel technology for precise beam control
- Intuitive Virtual Cockpit Plus with 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Cons
- 60.3 cu ft cargo space — only 2-seat capacity rear area, not suitable for families needing three rows
- Smaller interior dimensions limit rear legroom (35.7 inches) compared to GLE's 38.4 inches
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Pros
- 84.3 cu ft cargo space — 40% more than Q5, ideal for families and road trips
- Optional third-row seating for up to 7 passengers (vs Q5's 5-passenger maximum)
- 120.5-inch wheelbase provides 8 inches more length and 2.7 inches more rear legroom
- MBUX multimedia system with 12.3-inch touchscreen, voice control, and AI integration
- Air suspension with adaptive damping automatically adjusts to road conditions
Cons
- Starting price of $59,650 — significantly higher entry cost
- 24 MPG combined fuel economy — less efficient and higher fuel costs over vehicle lifetime
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLE offers optional third-row seating for up to 7 total passengers. The Audi Q5 seats a maximum of 5 passengers and does not offer a third-row option.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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Wikipedia
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