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Audi Q3 vs Mercedes CLA Coupe comparison

Compare performance (272 HP vs 354 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 39,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or Mercedes CLA Coupe?

Audi Q3 vs Mercedes CLA Coupe: Key differences

Audi Q3

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • very slightly cheaper
  • substantially more efficient
  • very slightly lighter
  • moderately more trunk space
details

Mercedes CLA Coupe

4.8 (2 Reviews)
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  • markedly more power
  • clearly more electric range
  • somewhat quicker 0–100 km/h
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Q3

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

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

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

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

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.

Frequently compared as well

Audi Q3
VW T-Roc
VS
The Audi Q3 plays the compact‑premium role perfectly — a hushed, well‑built cabin, polished manners and a level of refinement that makes the higher price feel like an investment in peace of mind. The VW T‑Roc, meanwhile, is the cheekier, better‑value sibling: bolder styling, sprightlier handling …
Mercedes CLA Coupe
Mercedes EQE
VS
Choosing between the Mercedes CLA Coupe and the Mercedes EQE means deciding if you want a compact, stylish, driver-focused coupe-sedan or a larger, tech-forward, all-electric executive saloon. The CLA emphasizes sporty design and agility, while the EQE delivers electric range, quiet refinement and …

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

Q3

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 Q3 is very slightly cheaper – starting at 38,200 £ , while the Mercedes CLA Coupe costs 39,600 £ . That’s a price difference of around 1,408 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Audi Q3 uses 1.7 L/100km and is substantially more efficient than the Mercedes CLA Coupe with 4.9 L/100km. The difference is about 3.2 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Mercedes CLA Coupe offers clearly more range – reaching up to 791 km, about 672 km more than the Audi Q3.

CLA Coupe

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 offers markedly more power – delivering 354 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 82 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes CLA Coupe is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 4.9 s, while the Audi Q3 takes 5.7 s. That’s about 0.8 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes CLA Coupe delivers clearly more torque with 515 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 115 Nm more.

Q3

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Audi Q3 is very slightly lighter – 1,635 kg compared to 1,695 kg. The difference is around 60 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Audi Q3 offers moderately more boot space – 488 L compared to 405 L. That’s a difference of about 83 L.

When it comes to payload, the Audi Q3 carries a bit more – 535 kg compared to 455 kg. That’s a difference of about 80 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes CLA Coupe is barely 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 £39,600
CLA Coupe

Mercedes CLA Coupe

  • Engine Type : Electric, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 156 - 354 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.9 - 5.3 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 12.2 - 12.6 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 542 - 791 km
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Audi Q3
Mercedes CLA Coupe

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is a compact premium crossover that blends sharp styling with a well-crafted interior, making it an appealing choice for urban drivers who want a touch of luxury. It delivers a composed ride, intuitive tech features and a practical cabin, so it works well as a comfortable daily driver with an upscale feel.

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Reviews Audi Q3

5 (1 Reviews)
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dd
2 Nov 2025, 22:05:04

Very comfortable. Precise steering. E35 petrol engine, 150 hp — sufficient. Manual gearbox very good and well-geared. Looks very handsome. Very large boot. Premium interior.

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.

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Reviews Mercedes CLA Coupe

4.8 (2 Reviews)
rate
marco
12 Mar 2026, 18:44:45

A car with a unique line — the shooting brake finally gets a sporty rear and a roomy trunk.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Dejf
18 Dec 2025, 14:59:40

Nice efficient car. Like it

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Audi Q3 stands out with its premium interior and cutting-edge technology, offering a luxurious driving experience. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Tucson impresses with its spacious cabin, user-friendly features, and excellent value for money. Both models have …
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In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLC stand out with their distinctive designs and advanced technology. The Q3 offers a sportier handling experience and a high-tech interior, while the GLC impresses with its luxurious finishes and comfort-oriented ride. Both vehicles …
Audi Q3
Mercedes CLA Coupe

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,200 - 52,900 £
Price
39,600 - 59,300 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
12.2 - 12.6 kWh/100km
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
542 - 791 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
0 - 120 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Coupe
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,635 - 1,900 kg
Curb weight
1,695 - 2,135 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
405 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,859 mm
Width
1,855 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
430 - 455 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
156 - 354 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 8.8 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
280 - 515 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
115 - 260 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
1,499 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, C, D
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What drivetrain options does the Audi Q3 have?

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

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.