2025 Audi SQ8 vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
Comparison Overview
Choosing between the high-performance 2025 Audi SQ8 and the larger, more efficient 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class presents a classic dilemma: do you prioritize thrilling power or practical, long-haul usability? The Audi SQ8, starting at $97,600, clearly aims at performance, boasting 500 horsepower and a massive 568 lb-ft of torque. Conversely, the GLS-Class comes in $8,400 cheaper at $89,200 and is significantly more frugal, achieving a combined 21 MPG compared to the Audi's 17 MPG, utilizing premium fuel in both cases. While the SQ8 offers superior acceleration, the GLS-Class is notably larger in stature (71.8 inches tall vs. 67.0 inches for the Audi) and provides a more traditional luxury crossover profile, despite having a smaller 17.4 cu ft cargo area compared to the SQ8's 33.7 cu ft.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class wins for daily commuting due to its better fuel economy, netting 21 combined MPG versus the SQ8's 17 MPG.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
Although the SQ8 has more cargo space, the GLS-Class is significantly taller at 71.8 inches, suggesting easier ingress/egress for family occupants.
2025 Audi SQ8
The Audi SQ8 is the clear enthusiast choice, producing 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, substantially outmuscling the GLS-Class's 375 hp.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class offers a strong proposition by costing $8,400 less while delivering superior fuel economy.
Choose the Audi SQ8 if...
- You prioritize raw performance, as the SQ8 offers 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque.
- You prefer more usable cargo capacity, given the SQ8's 33.7 cu ft versus the GLS-Class's 17.4 cu ft.
- You are comfortable paying the higher entry MSRP of $97,600 for a more potent package.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class if...
- Maximizing fuel efficiency is critical, as the GLS-Class achieves 21 combined MPG.
- You want to save $8,400 upfront, as the GLS-Class starts at $89,200.
- You need a physically larger vehicle, evidenced by the GLS-Class's height of 71.8 inches compared to 67.0 inches for the Audi.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Audi SQ8 | Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 197.0" | 205.0" |
| Width | 79.0" | 79.9" |
| Height | 67.0" | 71.8" |
| Wheelbase | 118.0" | 123.4" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | — |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Integrated Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cross Traffic Alert | — | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | — | ✓ |
| Third Row Head Airbags | — | ✓ |
| Brake Drying | — | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | — | ✓ |
| Adaptive Headlights | — | ✓ |
| Cornering Lights | — | ✓ |
| Front Power Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 4.0 L | 3.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | V8 | inline 6 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 500 hp | 375 hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 568 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 32 | 24 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | Limited Slip |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 15/21 MPG | 19/24 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 17 MPG | 21 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 337.5/472.5 mi. | 452.2/571.2 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.5 gal. | 23.8 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Side View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors with Side Sensing | ✓ | — |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Four Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | — | ✓ |
| Automatic Parking Assist | — | ✓ |
| 3rd Row Cupholders | — | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | — | ✓ |
| Power Rear Seat Easy Entry | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.1 in | 12.3 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Brand Speakers | Bang & Olufsen | — |
| Stereo Power | 730W | 590W |
| Speaker System | 17 | 13 |
| Surround Audio | Discrete | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 6 months |
| Premium Speaker Brand | — | Burmester |
| Subwoofer Count | — | 2 |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass Extended | 1st Row Power Glass Extended |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 37.1 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.3 in. | 40.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.5 in. | 59.3 in. |
| Seat Material: Premium Leather | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 10-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 2 | 3 |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 10-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Front Hip Room | — | 60.8 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | — | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | — | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | — | 3 |
| Driver Seat Ventilation | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Ventilation | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.1 in. | 40.2 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 40.2 in. | 41.9 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.5 in. | 58.5 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Hip Room | — | 60.0 in. |
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | — |
| Wheel Diameter | 22 in | — |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 285/40R22 | 315/40R21 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | Inside Mounted |
| Wheel Material | — | Alloy |
| Wheel Size | — | 21 x 11.0 in. |
Suspension
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | — | 6 yr./ 62000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Audi SQ8 and 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.
How does the performance gap between the two SUVs feel in real-world driving?
The performance gap is significant; the Audi SQ8 delivers 125 more horsepower (500 hp vs. 375 hp) and substantially more torque (568 lb-ft vs. 369 lb-ft). This means the SQ8 will feel significantly quicker off the line and more responsive during highway passing maneuvers than the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.
Is the Audi SQ8's lower fuel economy a major financial concern?
Yes, the SQ8 burns more fuel, achieving 17 combined MPG versus the GLS-Class's 21 combined MPG. Since both require premium fuel, you will be visiting the gas station more frequently and spending more over the long term with the Audi.
Which vehicle is better for maximizing storage space?
The Audi SQ8 is the clear winner for outright cargo volume, offering 33.7 cubic feet of space. The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class provides a much smaller 17.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind its rear seats.
What is the price difference, and does the cheaper car justify the power deficit?
There is an $8,400 difference in their starting MSRPs, with the GLS-Class being the less expensive option. Whether it justifies the power deficit depends on your priorities; if you don't need the SQ8's extra 125 horsepower, the savings are substantial.
Do both vehicles use similar AWD and transmission setups?
Both utilize All-Wheel Drive, but the Audi SQ8 features an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class uses a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
How do the exterior dimensions compare, especially for parking?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is noticeably larger and taller overall, measuring 205.0 inches long and 71.8 inches high. The Audi SQ8 is slightly shorter at 197.0 inches and lower at 67.0 inches, which might make navigating tight urban parking garages slightly easier.
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