@ Audi AG
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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Audi Q5 vs Mercedes GLC – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Audi Q5 or Mercedes GLC fits your lifestyle better.

Q5 @ Audi AG

The Audi Q5 vs. Mercedes GLC: A High-Stakes Showdown in the SUV Arena

The mid-size luxury SUV segment is a fiercely competitive battlefield where engineering prowess, advanced technology, and design excellence converge. In this comparison, we delve into two of the segment's titans: the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes GLC. With both models boasting impressive reputations and an array of impressive features, choosing between them requires a closer look at their strengths and innovations.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Powertrains and Performance

When it comes to engines, the Audi Q5 offers a variety of options, including petrol and diesel mild-hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs) and plug-in hybrids. Engine outputs range from 163 to 367 horsepower, with torque levels reaching up to 700 Nm in some configurations. The Q5's focus on hybrid technology illustrates Audi's commitment to efficiency and performance, with a respectable 0-100 km/h acceleration in as little as 4.5 seconds on its higher-performance models.

The Mercedes GLC, meanwhile, is not to be outdone, presenting a robust lineup of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines. It offers power output starting from 186 horsepower to a staggering 680 horsepower in its top-tier configurations. With torque that maxes out at a mind-bending 1020 Nm, the GLC is designed for those who seek exhilarating performance. The GLC achieves 0-100 km/h in a lightning-fast 3.5 seconds with its top model, showcasing its formidable capabilities.

Q5 @ Audi AG

Fuel Efficiency and Range

In terms of fuel consumption, the Audi Q5 demonstrates efficiency with figures between 5.6 to 8.4 L/100km, depending on the engine variant. Its plug-in hybrid variants offer an electric range of up to 62 km, supported by a 14.4 kWh battery, making it a compelling choice for environmentally conscious drivers.

The Mercedes GLC tends to impress with outstanding efficiency, especially in its plug-in hybrid guise, boasting consumption as low as 0.4 L/100km and an electric range up to 130 km. This impressive efficiency, coupled with a larger electric range, enhances its appeal for drivers seeking longer electric commutes.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Design and Dimensions

Design-wise, both vehicles reflect their brand pedigree with distinct styling cues. The Audi Q5 measures between 4682 mm to 4717 mm in length, emphasizing aerodynamic styling coupled with classic Audi design elements. Its trunk capacity varies between 455 and 515 liters, offering practical storage solutions.

The Mercedes GLC presents a slightly more elongated stature with a length up to 4792 mm, enhancing its road presence. Trunk space is generous too, ranging from 390 to 620 liters, giving it a slight edge in practical usability.

Q5 @ Audi AG

Technological Innovations

Technological advancements are prominent in both models. The Audi Q5 features cutting-edge infotainment, driver assistance technologies, and connectivity systems, reflecting its innovative spirit. Meanwhile, the GLC boasts an intuitive MBUX user interface with augmented reality for navigation, making it a tech enthusiast's delight.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Conclusion

The decision between the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC ultimately comes down to personal preference, style, and priorities. Those preferring a blend of performance and hybrid innovation may lean toward the Q5, while those seeking power, efficiency, and advanced technology may find the GLC more appealing. Regardless of choice, both vehicles represent the pinnacle of automotive excellence in the luxury SUV segment.

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

Q5 @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Audi Q5 has a somewhat advantage in terms of price – it starts at 44800 £, while the Mercedes GLC costs 50300 £. That’s a price difference of around 5499 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLC manages with 1.60 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Audi Q5 with 2.50 L. The difference is about 0.90 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Mercedes GLC performs clearly better – achieving up to 714 km, about 614 km more than the Audi Q5.

GLC @ 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 Mercedes GLC has a convincingly edge – offering 680 HP compared to 367 HP. That’s roughly 313 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is distinct quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Audi Q5 takes 4.50 s. That’s about 1 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLC performs barely noticeable better – reaching 275 km/h, while the Audi Q5 tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLC pulls significantly stronger with 1020 Nm compared to 550 Nm. That’s about 470 Nm difference.

Q5 @ 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.

Both models weigh roughly the same – around 1910 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers somewhat more room – 620 L compared to 520 L. That’s a difference of about 100 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLC performs a bit better – up to 1740 L, which is about 267 L more than the Audi Q5.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes GLC minimal takes the win – 600 kg compared to 565 kg. That’s a difference of about 35 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Mercedes GLC shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £50,300
GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes GLC

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 186 - 680 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.6 - 9.9 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.9 - 16.6 kWh
  • Electric Range : 12 - 714 km
details

Audi Q5

4 (2)
rate

The Audi Q5 feels like the sensible luxury choice — polished cabin materials, a calm ride and enough tech to keep commuters and weekend adventurers equally pleased. It won't shout for attention but will quietly check the boxes for buyers who want refinement, space and everyday usability with a dash of Audi charisma.

details
A203044_overfull @ Audi AG
A203047_overfull @ Audi AG
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A203075_overfull @ Audi AG

Mercedes GLC

4 (2)
rate

The Mercedes GLC blends plush cabin comfort and composed road manners into an SUV that feels more grown-up than it looks. It won’t shout for attention, but will quietly please buyers who want refinement, usable space and a touch of luxury without the drama.

details
22C0270_060 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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22C0270_031 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
44800 - 78900 £
Price
50300 - 126600 £
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 8.3 L
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh
Electric Range
92 - 100 km
Electric Range
12 - 714 km
Battery Capacity
20.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
94 kWh
co2
56 - 189 g/km
co2
0 - 225 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 - 65 L
Fuel tank capacity
49 - 65 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1910 - 2245 kg
Curb weight
1910 - 2535 kg
Trunk capacity
433 - 520 L
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Length
4717 mm
Length
4716 - 4845 mm
Width
1900 mm
Width
1890 - 1913 mm
Height
1647 - 1656 mm
Height
1603 - 1647 mm
Max trunk capacity
1300 - 1473 L
Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1740 L
Payload
490 - 565 kg
Payload
475 - 600 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
204 - 367 HP
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.5 - 8.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Max Speed
226 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
Torque
340 - 550 Nm
Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Power kW
150 - 270 kW
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Engine capacity
1968 - 2995 cm3
Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025 - 2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, E, F, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, B, A
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz

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What drivetrain options does the Audi Q5 have?

The Audi Q5 is available as All-Wheel Drive or Front-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.