Audi Q7 vs Mercedes GLE 2026: Specs & Pricing
The Audi Q7 emphasizes sporty handling and tech innovation with up to 507 HP, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE prioritizes luxury comfort and off-road capability with a more powerful standard engine and superior infotainment system. Both are premium three-row SUVs, but they cater to different priorities.
Audi Q7
Premium three-row SUV with emphasis on sporty handling and advanced technology
Buyers seeking a performance-oriented luxury SUV with tech innovation and European driving dynamics
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Premium three-row SUV combining luxury, comfort, and powerful performance options
Luxury-focused buyers who value premium interior refinement, advanced AI technology, and AMG performance options
Quick Answer
AI SummaryThe Audi Q7 emphasizes sporty handling and tech innovation with up to 507 HP, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE prioritizes luxury comfort and off-road capability with a more powerful standard engine and superior infotainment system. Both are premium three-row SUVs, but they cater to different priorities.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose the Audi Q7 if you prioritize sporty dynamics, sharper handling, and better fuel efficiency at a lower price point. Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLE if you want superior luxury appointments, a larger infotainment display, greater towing capacity, and maximum performance through the AMG variants.
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Choose Audi Q7 if
Best pickBuyers seeking a performance-oriented luxury SUV with tech innovation and European driving dynamics
Choose Mercedes-Benz GLE if
Luxury-focused buyers who value premium interior refinement, advanced AI technology, and AMG performance options
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Maximum Engine Power:✓ Mercedes-Benz GLE wins(580 HP (AMG GLE 580) vs 507 HP (SQ7 TFSI))
- Standard Seating Configuration:7 seats (standard across all trims) vs 7 seats (standard), optional 4-seat layout
- WLTP Fuel Economy (Base Model):✓ Audi Q7 wins(25.5 MPG combined (Q7 50 TDI) vs 23.4 MPG combined (GLE 350d))
Key Facts & Figures
72 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Audi Q7 | Mercedes-Benz GLE | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Engine Power(hp) | 567 hp (SQ7 TFSI) | 580 hp (AMG GLE 580) | |
| Fuel Efficiency (EPA Combined)(MPG) | 28 MPG | 24 MPG | |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 108 cu ft | 84 cu ft | |
| Starting Price (2025)(USD) | $70,995 | $65,250 | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (High-Performance)(seconds) | 3.8 seconds (SQ7) | 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) | |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 10.1 in (MMI Touch Response) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) | |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 39.3 inches | 37.8 inches | |
| Towing Capacity (Standard)(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | 4,400 lbs | |
| Maximum Horsepower(HP) | 507 HP (SQ7 TFSI) | 580 HP (AMG GLE 580) | |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | $61,800 | $64,550 | |
| Base Model Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 25.5 MPG (Q7 50 TDI diesel) | 23.4 MPG (GLE 350d diesel) | |
| Standard Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 10.1 inches (MMI Touch Display) | 12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen) | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) | 6.8 seconds (Q7 45 TFSI) | 6.9 seconds (GLE 350d) | |
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | 4,400 lbs (standard) | 7,700 lbs (AMG models) | |
| Cargo Space (Third Row Folded)(cubic feet) | 77.2 cu ft | 76.6 cu ft | |
| Standard Number of Seats(seats) | 7 seats | 7 seats (optional 4-seat) | |
| 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 | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) | 6.2 sec (GLE 53) | 6.2 sec (GLE 53) | |
| 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 | |
| Engine Power (Base Model)(hp) | 383 hp | 383 hp | |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $74,900 | $74,900 | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base AWD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)(cubic feet) | 28.0 cu ft | 28.0 cu ft | |
| Curb Weight (Base Model)(lbs) | 4,685 lbs | 4,685 lbs | |
| Seating Capacity (Max Configuration)(passengers) | 7 passengers | 7 passengers | |
| 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 | |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (MBUX) | 12.3 inches (MBUX) | |
| Standard Seating Capacity(passengers) | 5 | 5 | |
| 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(seats) | 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) | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | |
| 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) | |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 38.4 inches | 38.4 inches | |
| 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 |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
- 507 HP (SQ7 TFSI)Maximum Engine Power580 HP (AMG GLE 580)(winner)
- 7 seats (standard across all trims)Standard Seating Configuration7 seats (standard), optional 4-seat layout
- 25.5 MPG combined (Q7 50 TDI)(winner)WLTP Fuel Economy (Base Model)23.4 MPG combined (GLE 350d)
- 10.1 inches (MMI Touch Display)Standard Infotainment Display Size12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen)(winner)
- 6.8 seconds (Q7 45 TFSI)(winner)0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)6.9 seconds (GLE 350d)
- $61,800 USD(winner)Starting Price (2026 Model Year, US)$64,550 USD
- 4,400 lbs (Q7)Maximum Towing Capacity7,700 lbs (GLE 580 AMG)(winner)
- Maximum Engine Power
Audi Q7
507 HP (SQ7 TFSI)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
580 HP (AMG GLE 580)(winner)
- Standard Seating Configuration
Audi Q7
7 seats (standard across all trims)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
7 seats (standard), optional 4-seat layout
- WLTP Fuel Economy (Base Model)
Audi Q7
25.5 MPG combined (Q7 50 TDI)(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
23.4 MPG combined (GLE 350d)
- Standard Infotainment Display Size
Audi Q7
10.1 inches (MMI Touch Display)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen)(winner)
- 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)
Audi Q7
6.8 seconds (Q7 45 TFSI)(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
6.9 seconds (GLE 350d)
- Starting Price (2026 Model Year, US)
Audi Q7
$61,800 USD(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
$64,550 USD
- Maximum Towing Capacity
Audi Q7
4,400 lbs (Q7)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
7,700 lbs (GLE 580 AMG)(winner)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | Audi Q7 | Mercedes-Benz GLE |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Engine Power(hp) | 567 hp (SQ7 TFSI) | 580 hp (AMG GLE 580)(winner) |
| 0-60 Acceleration (High-Performance)(seconds) | 3.8 seconds (SQ7) | 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) |
| Maximum Horsepower(HP) | 507 HP (SQ7 TFSI) | 580 HP (AMG GLE 580)(winner) |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) | 6.8 seconds (Q7 45 TFSI)(winner) | 6.9 seconds (GLE 350d) |
| 0-60 Acceleration (3.0L Base Engine)(seconds) | 5.9 seconds | — |
Show 14 more attributesBase Engine Displacement(Liters) 3.0L Turbo — Horsepower (3.0L Base Engine)(HP) 362 HP — Engine Displacement (Top Model)(liters) 3.0L Twin-Turbo + EQ — 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) 6.2 sec (GLE 53) — 0-60 Acceleration (AMG/T8)(seconds) 5.5 seconds — Engine Power (Base Model)(hp) 383 hp — 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base AWD)(seconds) 5.8 seconds — 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) — | ||
| Fuel Efficiency (EPA Combined)(MPG) | 28 MPG(winner) | 24 MPG |
| Base Model Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 25.5 MPG (Q7 50 TDI diesel)(winner) | 23.4 MPG (GLE 350d diesel) |
| PHEV Electric Range(miles (EPA)) | 0 miles (gas-only) | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base AWD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | — |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) | 22 mpg combined | — |
Show 4 more attributesEPA Fuel Economy (Base Gasoline)(MPG combined) 24 MPG — EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base 4.0L V8)(mpg) 21 mpg — EPA Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) 20 mpg — EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Diesel)(mpg) 26 mpg (GLE 350d) — | ||
| Maximum Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 108 cu ft(winner) | 84 cu ft |
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 84.3 cu ft | — |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)(cubic feet) | 28.0 cu ft | — |
| Seating Capacity (Max Configuration)(passengers) | 7 passengers | — |
| Seating Capacity(seats) | 7 passengers | — |
Show 2 more attributesCargo Volume (Behind Rear Seat)(cubic feet) 21.8 cu ft — Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats)(liters) 645L — | ||
| Starting Price (2025)(USD) | $70,995 | $65,250(winner) |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | $61,800(winner) | $64,550 |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 10.1 in (MMI Touch Response) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen)(winner) |
| Standard Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 10.1 inches (MMI Touch Display) | 12.3 inches (MBUX Touchscreen)(winner) |
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 1.2 seconds | — |
| Touchscreen Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (standard, 4K optional) | — |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (MBUX) | — |
Show 4 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 — | ||
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 39.3 inches(winner) | 37.8 inches |
| Cabin Noise at Highway Speed(dB) | 71 dB (quieter) | — |
| Cabin Noise at 70 mph Highway(dB (decibels)) | 64 dB | — |
| Towing Capacity (Standard)(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | 4,400 lbs |
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | 4,400 lbs (standard) | 7,700 lbs (AMG models)(winner) |
| Cargo Space (Third Row Folded)(cubic feet) | 77.2 cu ft(winner) | 76.6 cu ft |
| Standard Number of Seats(seats) | 7 seats | 7 seats (optional 4-seat) |
| Standard Seating Configuration(seats) | 5 seats standard (7-seat optional) | — |
| Base Model Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $65,400 | — |
| Base Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) | $77,900 | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $74,900 | — |
| Starting MSRP (2025)(USD) | $78,450 | — |
| Starting Price (2025 Model Year)(USD) | $67,500 | — |
| Panoramic Sunroof Size(square inches) | 54.8 sq in | — |
| Base MSRP(USD) | $68,900 | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $88,550 | — |
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $80,650 | — |
| Curb Weight(lbs) | 4,740 lbs (GLE 53) | — |
| Curb Weight (Base Model)(lbs) | 4,685 lbs | — |
| 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 | — |
| IIHS Safety Rating (2025)(award status) | Top Safety Pick | — |
| 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 | — |
| Rear Headroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | — |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 38.4 inches | — |
| Standard Warranty Coverage(years/miles) | 4 years/50k miles | — |
Audi Q7Mercedes-Benz GLEShow 14 more attributes
Show 4 more attributes
Show 2 more attributes
Show 4 more attributes
Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
Audi Q7
Pros
- Responsive handling and agile steering for a large SUV
- Virtual Cockpit Pro with 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster standard
- Up to 507 HP in SQ7 TFSI with 0-60 in 4.7 seconds
- Better fuel economy (25.5 MPG combined on base diesel)
- $2,750 lower starting price than comparable GLE
Cons
- Smaller standard infotainment screen (10.1 inches) compared to GLE
- Lower maximum towing capacity (4,400 lbs vs GLE's 7,700 lbs)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Pros
- 12.3-inch MBUX touchscreen with superior gesture control and voice AI
- AMG variants offer up to 580 HP with advanced suspension tuning
- Exceptional towing capacity (7,700 lbs on AMG models)
- More spacious rear cabin with optional 4-seat configuration
- Superior off-road capability with optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL
Cons
- $2,750 higher starting price than Q7
- Base model (GLE 350d) slightly slower 0-60 acceleration than Q7 45 TFSI
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
The Mercedes-Benz GLE significantly outperforms in towing capacity, especially with AMG variants offering 7,700 lbs versus the Audi Q7's maximum 4,400 lbs. If towing is a priority, the GLE is the clear choice.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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Wikipedia
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