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Audi A5 Avant vs Mercedes C Class Wagon comparison

Compare performance (639 HP vs 680 HP), boot space and price (41,600 £ vs 42,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi A5 Avant or Mercedes C Class Wagon?

Audi A5 Avant vs Mercedes C Class Wagon: Key differences

Audi A5 Avant

  • marginally cheaper

Mercedes C Class Wagon

  • only slightly more power
  • clearly more efficient
  • marginally more electric range
  • very slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
  • markedly more trunk space

By Achim Sedelmaier

A5 Avant

The automotive market is brimming with exceptional models that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Among the most popular contenders in the luxury wagon segment are the Audi A5 Avant and the Mercedes C-Klasse T-Modell. Both vehicles promise a blend of performance, comfort, and innovative technology, but how do they stack up against each other? In this article, we will delve into the technical aspects, design philosophies, and innovations of these two remarkable offering.

C Class Wagon

Design and Space: A Practical Comparison

Starting with design, both the Audi A5 Avant and the Mercedes C-Klasse T-Modell present a sleek and sporty profile that is characteristic of their respective brands. The A5 Avant, with its dynamic lines and slightly lower stance, offers a modern, aggressive look, while the C-Klasse T-Modell is more traditional yet refined, showcasing the classic Mercedes elegance.

In terms of dimensions, the A5 Avant measures 4829 mm in length and 1860 mm in width, providing a spacious cabin for its 4 occupants. The trunks have a capacity of up to 476 liters, making it practical for families or weekend trips. In contrast, the C-Klasse T-Modell is slightly smaller at 4751 mm to 4842 mm, yet offers greater trunk space of 490 liters, accommodating up to 5 passengers comfortably.

A5 Avant

Engine and Performance: Powertrains Under the Hood

When it comes to power, the Audi A5 Avant offers a range of engines including diesel MHEV and petrol variants, ranging from 150 to 367 HP, with impressive acceleration times of 4.5 to 9.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, depending on the engine choice. The car's all-wheel drive option enhances grip and performance on varied terrains, while a fuel consumption of just 4.8 to 7.5 L/100 km keeps running costs manageable.

On the other hand, the Mercedes C-Klasse T-Modell presents a broader array of powertrains, including plug-in hybrids and multiple engine variations that deliver between 193 and an impressive 680 HP in the AMG variant. Its acceleration ranges from a respectable 3.4 seconds to a more conservative 8.8 seconds depending on the model. The C-Klasse boasts an all-electric driving range of up to 113 km in certain plug-in hybrid versions, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.

C Class Wagon

Technological Innovations That Inspire

Both vehicles are laden with advanced technologies designed to enhance the driving experience. The Audi A5 Avant comes equipped with the latest version of the MMI infotainment system, featuring a high-resolution display and intuitive controls. Audi's Virtual Cockpit, a digital instrument cluster, offers customizable options, keeping essential information front and center.

Conversely, the C-Klasse T-Modell is fortified with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system, known for its voice activation capabilities and AI functionality, granting it a more personal touch. It also integrates features such as augmented reality navigation, making the driving experience more informative and engaging.

A5 Avant

Safety and Efficiency: A Commitment to Excellence

Safety remains a top priority for both manufacturers. The Audi A5 Avant incorporates features like adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and traffic sign recognition, aiming to prevent accidents and enhance overall safety. Its efficient CO2 emissions ratings mirror its focus on sustainability, with figures ranging from 127 to 169 g/km based on selected configurations.

Similarly, the Mercedes C-Klasse T-Modell excels in safety features, offering systems such as active brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. Its CO2 efficiency class ranges from E to B, indicating a strongefficiency focus that aligns with modern environmental standards.

C Class Wagon

The Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal Luxury Wagon

Ultimately, the choice between the Audi A5 Avant and the Mercedes C-Klasse T-Modell will largely depend on personal preferences and requirements. The A5 Avant excels in offering sporty performance and a stylish design, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize driving dynamics. Meanwhile, the C-Klasse T-Modell shines in its versatility and innovative technology, appealing to families looking for a powerful yet practical vehicle.

Both models represent the pinnacle of what luxury wagons can offer, merging technology with design and performance. As the automotive world evolves, these two heavyweights continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the luxury segment.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

A5 Avant

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Audi A5 Avant is marginally cheaper – starting at 41,600 £ , while the Mercedes C Class Wagon costs 42,600 £ . That’s a price difference of around 986 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes C Class Wagon uses 0.4 L/100km and is clearly more efficient than the Audi A5 Avant with 2.1 L/100km. The difference is about 1.7 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Mercedes C Class Wagon offers marginally more range – reaching up to 112 km, about 4 km more than the Audi A5 Avant.

C Class Wagon

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes C Class Wagon offers only slightly more power – delivering 680 HP compared to 639 HP. That’s roughly 41 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes C Class Wagon is very slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.4 s, while the Audi A5 Avant takes 3.7 s. That’s about 0.3 s quicker.

Looking at top speed, the Mercedes C Class Wagon is slightly faster – reaching 280 km/h, while the Audi A5 Avant tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes C Class Wagon delivers moderately more torque with 1,020 Nm compared to 825 Nm. That’s about 195 Nm more.

A5 Avant

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes C Class Wagon is very slightly lighter – 1,755 kg compared to 1,785 kg. The difference is around 30 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes C Class Wagon offers markedly more boot space – 490 L compared to 361 L. That’s a difference of about 129 L.

For maximum load capacity, the Mercedes C Class Wagon offers only slightly more capacity – up to 1,375 L, about 69 L more than the Audi A5 Avant.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes C Class Wagon carries marginally more – 565 kg compared to 535 kg. That’s a difference of about 30 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes C Class Wagon is decisively ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £42,600
C Class Wagon

Mercedes C Class Wagon

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 186 - 680 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.4 - 9 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 11 - 112 km
Audi A5 Avant
Mercedes C Class Wagon

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Audi A5 Avant

The Audi A5 Avant dresses like a sleek coupe but carries like a sensible estate, offering buyers a rare blend of glamour and everyday practicality. Inside, the cabin feels beautifully sorted and the drive is composed and engaging, making routine errands feel a touch more enjoyable than they have any right to be.

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Mercedes C Class Wagon

The Mercedes C-Class wagon dresses Mercedes refinement in a sensible, practical package, marrying a sleek estate silhouette with a plush, high-quality cabin that feels more premium than its badge implies. It quietly soaks up motorway miles and cartloads of family kit with composed handling and effortless comfort — a clever alternative to an SUV for buyers who still like to steer.

details
Audi A5 Avant
Mercedes C Class Wagon

Costs and Consumption

Price
41,600 - 92,400 £
Price
42,600 - 104,400 £
Consumption L/100km
2.1 - 7.7 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
83 - 108 km
Electric Range
11 - 112 km
Battery Capacity
20.7 kWh
Battery Capacity
19.5 kWh
co2
47 - 175 g/km
co2
11 - 205 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
46 L
Fuel tank capacity
50 - 60 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Estate
Body Type
Estate
Seats
4 - 5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1,785 - 2,445 kg
Curb weight
1,755 - 2,235 kg
Trunk capacity
361 L
Trunk capacity
360 - 490 L
Length
4,829 mm
Length
4,751 - 4,842 mm
Width
1,860 - 1,952 mm
Width
1,820 - 1,900 mm
Height
1,460 mm
Height
1,454 - 1,474 mm
Max trunk capacity
1,306 L
Max trunk capacity
1,375 L
Payload
480 - 535 kg
Payload
440 - 565 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 639 HP
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.7 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.4 - 8.8 s
Max Speed
250 km/h
Max Speed
232 - 280 km/h
Torque
280 - 825 Nm
Torque
250 - 1,020 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 470 kW
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Engine capacity
1,968 - 2,995 cm3
Engine capacity
1,496 - 1,999 cm3

General

Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, E, F, D
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, G, B, D
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.