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Audi Q3 vs Mercedes CLA Coupe – Which car suits you better?

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

Q3 @ Audi AG

Introduction: Audi Q3 vs. Mercedes CLA Coupé

When it comes to the premium compact segment, the Audi Q3 and the Mercedes CLA Coupé stand out as two of the most desirable options. Each offers its unique blend of style, performance, and technology, catering to diverse tastes and driving preferences. In this comparison, we'll delve into the specifications, innovations, and overall appeal of these two striking vehicles to determine which one reigns supreme.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Performance: Power and Efficiency

The Audi Q3 is available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, producing power outputs between 150 HP and 245 HP. The Q3 comes equipped with both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, coupled with options for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Drivers can expect fuel consumption ranging from 5.5 to 8.5 L/100 km, making it a reasonably economical choice for families and daily commuters alike. With an accelerative range from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 5.8 seconds, performance enthusiasts are not left wanting.

On the other hand, the Mercedes CLA Coupé presents a stunning lineup of engine options, including petrol MHEV, diesel, plugin hybrid, and traditional petrol configurations. The power outputs can reach up to an exhilarating 421 HP, catering to those who crave high performance. The CLA Coupé excels in fuel efficiency as well, with consumption rates as low as 4.9 L/100 km. An impressive acceleration capability of 4.1 seconds to reach 100 km/h on certain models puts it firmly in the territory of performance vehicles.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Design and Interior Quality

Audi’s Q3 is characterized by its SUV silhouette which merges practicality with elegance. Its dimensions give it a commanding presence on the road, with a height of 1585 mm and a spacious trunk capacity of 530 L. The interior is outfitted with premium materials and cutting-edge technology, including the latest MMI infotainment system that enhances user experience.

Contrastingly, the Mercedes CLA Coupé epitomizes sporty elegance with its sleek coupe design, measuring 4695 mm in length and showcasing a stunning aerodynamic profile. Although it has a smaller trunk capacity of 460 L, the CLA compensates with a high-end interior featuring avant-garde design elements, advanced infotainment, and a digital cockpit that seamlessly integrates all vehicle controls.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Technology and Innovations

Both the Audi Q3 and the Mercedes CLA Coupé are equipped with state-of-the-art technology aimed at enhancing comfort, safety, and driving experience. The Q3 features cutting-edge driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, along with the Virtual Cockpit which presents relevant vehicle data directly in the driver’s line of sight.

The CLA Coupé ups the ante with innovative features such as MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), offering voice-activated controls and an augmented reality navigation system. Additionally, its range of advanced safety features reflects Mercedes’ commitment to occupant protection and crash avoidance.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Final Verdict: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the Audi Q3 and Mercedes CLA Coupé ultimately boils down to individual preferences and priorities. The Q3 takes the crown in terms of practicality, spaciousness, and a versatile range of engine options, making it ideal for family use. Conversely, the CLA Coupé appeals to those who idealize style, sporty performance, and cutting-edge technology.

Both vehicles offer exceptional quality and driving dynamics, so fans of the SUV and coupe categories will find plenty to admire. Whether you lean towards the robust practicality of the Q3 or the stunning aesthetics and performance of the CLA Coupé, either choice signifies a commitment to excellence in the premium automotive market.

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

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Mercedes CLA Coupe has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 37100 £, while the Audi Q3 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 1126 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi Q3 manages with 1.70 L and is therefore noticeable more efficient than the Mercedes CLA Coupe with 2.30 L. The difference is about 0.60 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Mercedes CLA Coupe performs clearly better – achieving up to 791 km, about 672 km more than the Audi Q3.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes CLA Coupe has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 421 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 149 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes CLA Coupe is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 4.10 s, while the Audi Q3 takes 5.70 s. That’s about 1.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes CLA Coupe performs slightly better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Audi Q3 tops out at 240 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes CLA Coupe pulls noticeable stronger with 515 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 115 Nm difference.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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 CLA Coupe is minimal lighter – 1505 kg compared to 1635 kg. The difference is around 130 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Audi Q3 offers barely noticeable more room – 488 L compared to 460 L. That’s a difference of about 28 L.

When it comes to payload, Audi Q3 barely noticeable takes the win – 535 kg compared to 490 kg. That’s a difference of about 45 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Mercedes CLA Coupe proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Mercedes CLA Coupe is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £37,100
CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes CLA Coupe

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol, Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 421 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.3 - 8.9 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 12.2 - 12.6 kWh
  • Electric Range : 86 - 791 km
details

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
A188605_overfull @ Audi AG
A188610_overfull @ Audi AG
A188613_overfull @ Audi AG
A1814467_overfull @ Audi AG
A188626_overfull @ Audi AG

Mercedes CLA Coupe

The Mercedes CLA Coupe cuts a rakish silhouette that blends sporty coupe lines with everyday practicality, giving style-minded buyers a premium image without shouting. Inside it feels more luxurious than its size suggests, with a slick cabin, intuitive tech and a composed ride — the kind of car that parties in the city and still shows up polished on Sunday morning.

details
19C0225_069 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
19C0225_068 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
19C0225_067 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
19C0225_044 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
38200 - 52900 £
Price
37100 - 73700 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L
Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 8.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
12.2 - 12.6 kWh
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
86 - 791 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
12.9 - 85 kWh
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
0 - 202 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Coupe
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
4
Curb weight
1635 - 1900 kg
Curb weight
1505 - 2135 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
395 - 460 L
Length
4531 mm
Length
4692 - 4723 mm
Width
1859 mm
Width
1834 - 1857 mm
Height
1559 - 1601 mm
Height
1404 - 1468 mm
Max trunk capacity
1196 - 1386 L
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
440 - 490 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol, Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.1 - 10 s
Max Speed
208 - 240 km/h
Max Speed
205 - 270 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 515 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 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, G, A
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz

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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.