@ Audi AG
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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Audi Q3 vs Mercedes B Class – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Audi Q3 or Mercedes B Class?

Q3 @ Audi AG

Clash of the Titans: Audi Q3 vs Mercedes B-Klasse

In the competitive world of compact premium vehicles, the Audi Q3 and Mercedes B-Klasse stand out as two formidable contenders. Both cars represent the commitment to luxury, innovation, and performance. In this article, we delve into a detailed comparison of these models, scrutinizing technical specifications, innovations, and overall appeal.

B Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Design and Dimensions

The Audi Q3 boasts the bold styling expected from an SUV, with a length of 4484 to 4500 mm, a width of 1843 to 1849 mm, and a height ranging from 1567 to 1585 mm. The exterior exudes a sense of robustness and modernity. On the other hand, the Mercedes B-Klasse adheres to a more compact MPV design, characterized by a length of 4419 mm, width of 1796 mm, and a height of 1562 mm, providing a sleeker appearance.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood, the Audi Q3 offers a dynamic range of petrol and diesel engines with power outputs ranging from 150 to 245 HP. Its transmission options include both manual and dual-clutch automatic variants, catering to a diverse driving preference, with both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options. Notably, the Q3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as swift as 5.8 seconds and reaches top speeds up to 237 km/h.

The Mercedes B-Klasse carves its niche with a variety of efficient powertrains. Offering petrol MHEV, diesel, and plugin hybrid engines, it covers a power spectrum from 116 to 218 HP. The plug-in hybrid variant impresses with an electric range of 83 km. With a dual-clutch automatic transmission, the B-Klasse showcases smooth driveability, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in a competitive 6.5 seconds and maximum speeds up to 250 km/h.

B Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Fuel Efficiency and CO2 Emissions

Fuel consumption figures for the Audi Q3 vary from 5.5 to 8.5 L/100 km, offering reasonable efficiency for an SUV, paired with CO2 emissions spanning from 143 to 193 g/km. This places the Q3 in E, F, and G CO2 efficiency classes.

Conversely, the B-Klasse prides itself on lower consumption rates, especially in its hybrid incarnation, registering at only 0.8 L/100 km. Standard petrol and diesel engines range from 5.1 to 7.1 L/100 km. CO2 emissions are commendably low, from 18 to 160 g/km, positioning it mostly in the more favorable B to F efficiency classes.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Interior and Cargo Space

Internally, both cars offer seating for five passengers. The Audi Q3 edges out slightly in trunk capacity with 530 L, an attractive feature for drivers prioritizing cargo space. The Mercedes B-Klasse provides a slightly more confined trunk space, ranging from 405 to 455 L, which is more than adequate for everyday use.

B Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Conclusion: Prestige in Different Packages

While both the Audi Q3 and Mercedes B-Klasse exhibit quintessential qualities of their respective brands, the choice ultimately depends on the individual priorities of potential owners. If a robust SUV with diverse performance options is preferred, the Audi Q3 is the clear choice. However, for those inclined towards eco-friendly technology with a focus on urban maneuverability, the Mercedes B-Klasse offers compelling advantages.

Whether it's the bold adventure-ready design of the Audi Q3 or the versatility and modernity of the Mercedes B-Klasse, both vehicles exemplify luxury and cutting-edge automotive innovation, set to impress even the most discerning drivers in the 2024 and 2025 line-ups.

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

Q3 @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Mercedes B Class has a a bit advantage in terms of price – it starts at 33100 £, while the Audi Q3 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 5099 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi Q3 manages with 1.70 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Mercedes B Class with 2.50 L. The difference is about 0.80 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Audi Q3 performs distinct better – achieving up to 119 km, about 36 km more than the Mercedes B Class.

B Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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 Audi Q3 has a slightly edge – offering 272 HP compared to 238 HP. That’s roughly 34 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q3 is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the Mercedes B Class takes 6.50 s. That’s about 0.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes B Class performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Audi Q3 tops out at 240 km/h. The difference is around 10 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes B Class pulls somewhat stronger with 450 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 50 Nm difference.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Mercedes B Class is slightly lighter – 1405 kg compared to 1635 kg. The difference is around 230 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Audi Q3 offers slight more room – 488 L compared to 455 L. That’s a difference of about 33 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes B Class performs minimal better – up to 1540 L, which is about 154 L more than the Audi Q3.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes B Class hardly perceptible takes the win – 550 kg compared to 535 kg. That’s a difference of about 15 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Audi Q3 proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Audi Q3 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £38,200
Q3 @ Audi AG

Audi Q3

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.7 - 8.6 L
  • Electric Range : 118 - 119 km

Audi Q3

5 (1)
rate

The Audi Q3 feels like a grown-up compact SUV with premium polish and city-friendly agility, the sort of car that makes weekend escapes and daily commutes equally satisfying. Inside, you get quality materials and smart packaging that keep things practical without skimping on style, so it’s an easy pick for buyers who want luxury without the drama.

details

Mercedes B Class

5 (3)
rate

The Mercedes B-Class is a smart, grown-up compact people carrier that dresses everyday practicality in a near‑premium polish, perfect for buyers who want comfort and a classy badge without the theatrics. It won’t set your pulse racing on a back road, but it will make school runs, commutes and grocery hauls feel pleasantly civilized — a reliable, slightly posh companion for real life.

details
Audi Q3
Mercedes B Class
Q3 @ Audi AG
B Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
38200 - 52900 £
Price
33100 - 52500 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 6.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
83 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
56 - 156 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
MPV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1635 - 1900 kg
Curb weight
1405 - 1745 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
405 - 455 L
Length
4531 mm
Length
4419 mm
Width
1859 mm
Width
1796 mm
Height
1559 - 1601 mm
Height
1562 mm
Max trunk capacity
1196 - 1386 L
Max trunk capacity
1440 - 1540 L
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
505 - 550 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
116 - 238 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 10 s
Max Speed
208 - 240 km/h
Max Speed
200 - 250 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
200 - 450 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
85 - 175 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, F
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Is the Audi Q3 offered with different drivetrains?

The Audi Q3 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.