VS

Audi Q3 vs Mercedes S-Class comparison

Compare performance (272 HP vs 635 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 104,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or Mercedes S-Class?

Audi Q3 vs Mercedes S-Class: Key differences

Audi Q3

4.3 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly cheaper
  • markedly more efficient
  • marginally more electric range
  • clearly lighter
details

Mercedes S-Class

  • clearly more power
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly 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

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

Q3

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Audi Q3 is significantly cheaper – starting at 38,200 £ , while the Mercedes S-Class costs 104,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 65,791 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Audi Q3 uses 1.7 L/100km and is markedly more efficient than the Mercedes S-Class with 2.2 L/100km. The difference is about 0.5 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Audi Q3 offers marginally more range – reaching up to 119 km, about 1 km more than the Mercedes S-Class.

S-Class

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes S-Class offers clearly more power – delivering 635 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 363 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes S-Class is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 4 s, while the Audi Q3 takes 5.7 s. That’s about 1.7 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes S-Class delivers considerably more torque with 850 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 450 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 clearly lighter – 1,635 kg compared to 2,165 kg. The difference is around 530 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes S-Class offers very slightly more boot space – 530 L compared to 488 L. That’s a difference of about 42 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes S-Class carries a bit more – 660 kg compared to 535 kg. That’s a difference of about 125 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes S-Class holds a decisive overall lead 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 £104,000
S-Class

Mercedes S-Class

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 336 - 635 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 2.2 - 11 L/100km
  • Electric Range 98 - 118 km
details

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 …
Audi Q3
Kia Sportage
VS
Comparing the Audi Q3 and the Kia Sportage helps buyers choose between a compact premium SUV that prioritizes refinement and tech, and a mainstream compact that focuses on space, value and practicality. The Q3 impresses with upscale materials, sharper handling and a quieter cabin, while the …
Audi Q3
Mercedes S-Class

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.

details
A188605_overfull
A188610_overfull
A188613_overfull
A1814467_overfull
A188626_overfull

Reviews Audi Q3

4.3 (4 Reviews)
rate
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 S-Class

The Mercedes S-Class wraps peerless comfort, whisper-quiet luxury and subtle tech wizardry into a chauffeur-ready package that still knows how to engage the driver. It’s the car for buyers who want to arrive relaxed, be taken seriously and occasionally enjoy a grin when the road reminds them this limousine can dance.

details
21C0428_003
21C0428_004
21C0613_021
21C0613_037
21C0613_042
21C0613_043

Reviews Mercedes S-Class

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Frequently compared as well

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 …
Audi Q3
Nissan Qashqai
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Audi Q3 and Nissan Qashqai both offer compelling features tailored to different consumer preferences. The Q3 impresses with its luxurious interior and advanced technology, providing a premium driving experience, while the Qashqai stands out for its …
Audi Q3
Ford Kuga
VS
In the competitive compact SUV segment, the Audi Q3 stands out with its luxurious interior and advanced tech features, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and sophistication. On the other hand, the Ford Kuga offers a more practical and budget-friendly option, boasting versatility and ample …
Audi Q3
Lexus NX
VS
Audi Q3 and Lexus NX 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 Audi Q3 or the Lexus NX is the …
Audi Q3
Mercedes B Class
VS
In the competitive landscape of compact luxury vehicles, the Audi Q3 stands out with its dynamic design and sporty performance, appealing to drivers seeking a spirited driving experience. On the other hand, the Mercedes B-Klasse offers a more practical approach, prioritizing spacious interiors and …
Audi Q3
Mercedes GLC
VS
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
Renault Rafale
VS
Audi Q3 and Renault Rafale 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 Audi Q3 or the Renault …
Audi Q3
Volvo XC60
VS
In the competitive landscape of luxury compact SUVs, the Audi Q3 and the Volvo XC60 stand out with their unique offerings. The Audi Q3 boasts a sporty design paired with dynamic handling, making it an excellent choice for drivers who value performance. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC60 impresses with its …
Audi Q3
Mercedes S-Class

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,200 - 52,900 £
Price
104,000 - 201,400 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
2.2 - 11 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
98 - 118 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
50 - 252 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,635 - 1,900 kg
Curb weight
2,165 - 2,650 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
345 - 530 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,859 mm
Width
1,921 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
420 - 660 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel 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, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
336 - 635 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4 - 5.7 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
560 - 850 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
247 - 467 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
2,989 - 3,982 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B, F
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.