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Audi Q3 vs Mercedes GLC comparison

Compare performance (272 HP vs 472 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 50,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or Mercedes GLC?

Audi Q3 vs Mercedes GLC: Key differences

Audi Q3

4.3 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • noticeably cheaper
  • visibly lighter
details

Mercedes GLC

4.3 (14 Reviews)
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  • substantially more power
  • marginally more efficient
  • only slightly more electric range
  • visibly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • visibly more trunk space
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

Quick comparison: Audi Q3 vs Mercedes GLC — which suits you?

Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLC occupy the same premium-SUV space but take very different tacks: the Q3 pitches itself as a compact, high‑quality technophile’s car while the GLC leans into supreme highway calm and usable interior volume. The Q3 feels tighter and more composed in urban use, prioritising a refined cabin and clever packaging; the GLC trades some compactness for a more lounge‑like rear seat and greater overall heft. Pricing and option strategy are part of the story too — the Q3 is the relatively frugal entry into this orbit, the GLC expects you to pay for comfort and tech. Read on for how those differences matter day to day rather than on paper.

GLC

Driving character and city usability

The Audi Q3 drives like a premium compact: nimble turn‑in, confident steering and a composed ride that makes city manoeuvres feel easy and intentional. The Mercedes GLC, by contrast, is a heavier, more boulevard‑oriented SUV that rewards relaxed progress and high‑speed serenity but feels bulkier in tight car parks; its optional rear‑axle steering narrows the gap in town. If you favour sharper responses and a car that feels lighter under your hands, the Q3 will please; if you value effortless cruising and a sense of solidity when merging onto a motorway, the GLC is more aligned. Both can be compromised by large wheels, but the Q3’s compact footprint still helps in urban life where the GLC’s mass gives it a different presence.

Q3

Comfort and long‑distance behavior

On long runs the differences become clear: the Mercedes GLC is built to be a hushed, sofa‑like companion with very low wind and engine intrusion, especially if you opt for air suspension which smooths everything out. The Audi Q3 is quietly civilized too, but it leans a touch firmer off the showroom floor and rewards choosing the adaptive damping if you want a silkier long‑distance ride. The GLC’s quieter cabin and more substantial seats make motorway miles feel easier, while the Q3’s cockpit and chassis tune keep fatigue down with a more focused driving posture. In short, pick the GLC for lounge‑like cruising and the Q3 for a composed, slightly more driver‑centric long run.

GLC

Practicality, rear seats and luggage

Family buyers notice the rear‑seat layout and boot more than critics: the Audi Q3 makes smart use of space with a sliding, split rear bench that improves everyday flexibility and loading. The Mercedes GLC generally offers larger, more conventional ICE‑boot capacity that suits full‑size suitcases and holiday loads, but its plug‑in versions eat into that cargo space and raise the floor — an important trade‑off for PHEV buyers. The Q3’s variable rear bench often means less frantic Tetris when fitting child seats and strollers, while the GLC gives a straightforward, generous load bay when you choose non‑hybrid variants. Both fit five people nominally, but the Q3 feels more about cleverness and the GLC about plain space.

Q3

Cabin feel, infotainment and perceived quality

Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLC both aim premium, yet they express it differently: the Q3 impresses with a high‑grade tactile finish and crisp, responsive displays that keep operations feeling polished. The GLC presents a visually luxurious interior and excellent materials at primary touchpoints, but its touch‑centric controls and sensitive steering‑wheel pads can rub some owners the wrong way. Audi’s new control satchels require a moment to master but reward with clarity; Mercedes’ voice assistant helps reduce touch interaction but doesn’t erase the frustration of a climate menu buried on a screen. Perceived quality tilts toward Audi for haptics, while Mercedes sells a more classic, lounge‑like ambience that many buyers prefer.

GLC

Who should consider the Audi Q3 and who the Mercedes GLC?

Choose the Audi Q3 if you want a compact premium SUV that feels slightly more driver‑focused, offers clever rear‑seat versatility and a refined cabin without immediately pushing into higher price tiers; it fits tech‑minded small families and commuters who value perceived quality. Consider the Mercedes GLC if your priority is motorway serenity, outright interior space for luggage (in non‑PHEV trims) and a car that behaves like a comfortable long‑distance saloon — it’s better for buyers who accept a higher entry cost for that lounge‑like ride. Both require careful specification choices — suspension, wheel size and hybrid vs ICE will shift the character dramatically — and that trade‑off is what the technical comparison that follows will unpack in concrete terms.

Frequently compared as well

Audi Q3
VW T-Roc
VS
Choosing between the Audi Q3 and the VW T‑Roc comes down to whether you value Audi’s upmarket feel and refinement or the T‑Roc’s sharper pricing and practical versatility. This comparison focuses on real-world driving, interior quality, technology and running costs to help you decide which compact …
Mercedes GLC
Volvo EX60
VS
The Mercedes GLC and the Volvo EX60 take different approaches to the premium compact SUV segment: the GLC leans on refined ride, traditional luxury and a choice of petrol, mild-hybrid or plug-in options, while the EX60 emphasizes all-electric power, minimalist Scandinavian design and advanced …

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

Q3

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Audi Q3 is noticeably cheaper – starting at 38,200 £ , while the Mercedes GLC costs 50,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 12,099 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLC uses 1.6 L/100km and is marginally more efficient than the Audi Q3 with 1.7 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Mercedes GLC offers only slightly more range – reaching up to 128 km, about 9 km more than the Audi Q3.

GLC

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 GLC offers substantially more power – delivering 472 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 200 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.2 s, while the Audi Q3 takes 5.7 s. That’s about 1.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLC delivers substantially more torque with 750 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 350 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 visibly lighter – 1,635 kg compared to 1,985 kg. The difference is around 350 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers visibly more boot space – 620 L compared to 488 L. That’s a difference of about 132 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLC carries very slightly more – 575 kg compared to 535 kg. That’s a difference of about 40 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLC stands well ahead of its rival 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 £50,300
GLC

Mercedes GLC

  • Engine Type Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 186 - 472 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 1.6 - 9.4 L/100km
  • Electric Range 122 - 128 km
details
Audi Q3
Mercedes GLC

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

4.3 (4 Reviews)
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Del
16 Jun 2026, 12:27:22

Very comfortable and very enjoyable to drive, interior very pleasant. Only missing the automatic controls.

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
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 GLC

The Mercedes GLC blends quiet refinement with premium materials to create a comfortable, modern cabin that feels more upscale than its size might suggest. It delivers composed handling and confident on-road manners while offering practical versatility and a strong suite of driver assistance and infotainment features.

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Reviews Mercedes GLC

4.3 (14 Reviews)
rate
David
23 Jul 2026, 09:55:25

There's no comparison: Mercedes has spent 140 years creating genuine marvels of automotive engineering, while ZEEKR has been around for, at most, four years — they can't be compared.

Zede
10 May 2026, 20:12:35

Too expensive! To justify it with technology that's equal or inferior.

Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Marek
2 Jan 2026, 18:32:30

There’s something about a Mercedes — you have to take it for a spin to feel it and understand why it’s special.

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

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Mercedes GLC
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Audi Q3
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Mercedes EQA
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Mercedes EQA and Mercedes GLC go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the Mercedes EQA or the …
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Mercedes GLC and Omoda 9 go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the Mercedes GLC or the Omoda 9 …
Audi Q3
SEAT Ateca
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Audi Q3 stands out with its refined interior and advanced technology features, offering a luxurious driving experience. In contrast, the SEAT Ateca impresses with its sporty design and excellent value, making it a practical choice for those seeking both …
Mercedes GLC
XPeng G9
VS
The Mercedes GLC is a compact luxury SUV prized for refined comfort, premium interiors and familiar petrol and mild‑hybrid drivetrains; the XPeng G9 is a fully electric, tech‑centric SUV that emphasizes long range, advanced driver assistance and extensive in‑car connectivity. Compare classic …
Mercedes GLC
Volvo XC60
VS
The Mercedes GLC and Volvo XC60 are two of the top contenders in the compact luxury SUV class, each bringing a distinct take on comfort, technology and driving dynamics. If you prioritize sporty refinement and a plush, tech-forward cabin the GLC is a strong choice; if you value Scandinavian design, …
Audi Q3
Mercedes GLC

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,200 - 52,900 £
Price
50,300 - 82,100 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.4 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
122 - 128 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
41 - 214 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,635 - 1,900 kg
Curb weight
1,985 - 2,400 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,859 mm
Width
1,890 - 1,920 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
475 - 575 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
186 - 472 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.2 - 9 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
380 - 750 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
137 - 347 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
1,993 - 2,999 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B, E, F, G
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.