2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs 2026 Audi SQ8
Comparison Overview
Choosing between ultimate luxury size and performance edge often hinges on budget and daily driving needs. If you're looking at the segment of large, premium crossovers, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class ($89,200 MSRP) presents a compelling case for practicality, while the 2026 Audi SQ8 ($99,700 MSRP) bets on raw excitement. The GLS is notably larger, measuring 205.0 inches long, which aids its minimal 17.4 cu ft cargo space (when all seats are in use). Conversely, the Audi dominates on power, boasting 500 hp versus the Mercedes' 375 hp, though this speed comes at a cost: the SQ8 only achieves 16 MPG combined, significantly trailing the GLS's 21 MPG combined. That difference of 5 MPG, combined with the $10,500 initial price gap, demands careful consideration of running costs versus outright performance.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is the better commuter due to its superior 21 MPG combined fuel economy compared to the Audi's 16 MPG.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The GLS is physically larger at 205.0 inches long and likely offers a more spacious overall cabin experience suitable for families.
2026 Audi SQ8
The 2026 Audi SQ8 appeals directly to driving enthusiasts with its substantial 500 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The GLS starts at $10,500 less than the SQ8 while providing better fuel efficiency and a highly capable 375 hp engine.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class if...
- You prioritize saving money on fuel, benefiting from the GLS's 21 MPG combined rating.
- Your budget constraint is firm, as the GLS starts at $89,200, saving you $10,500 upfront.
- You need the absolute largest footprint, as the GLS is 205.0 inches long.
Choose the Audi SQ8 if...
- You crave maximum acceleration and power, leveraging the SQ8's 500 hp.
- You value significant cargo capacity, as the SQ8 offers 33.7 cu ft versus the GLS's 17.4 cu ft (implying a different seating configuration might be standard).
- You prefer a slightly more agile feel, given the SQ8 is narrower (79.0 inches vs 79.9 inches) and shorter.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class | Audi SQ8 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 205.0" | 197.0" |
| Width | 79.9" | 79.0" |
| Height | 71.8" | 67.0" |
| Wheelbase | 123.4" | 118.0" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | — |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | — |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Third Row 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 |
| Brake Drying | ✓ | — |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | ✓ | — |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Headlights | ✓ | — |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cornering Lights | ✓ | — |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Power Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | — | ✓ |
| Front Integrated Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 3.0 L | 4.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 6 | V8 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 375 hp @ 5800 rpm | 500 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 568 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 24 | 32 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | Limited Slip |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 19/24 MPG | 14/20 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 21 MPG | 16 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 452.2/571.2 mi. | 315.0/450.0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23.8 gal. | 22.5 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control 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 | ✓ | — |
| Automatic Parking Assist | ✓ | — |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3rd Row Cupholders | ✓ | — |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | ✓ | — |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Rear Seat Easy Entry | ✓ | — |
| Leather 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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors with Side Sensing | — | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 10.1 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Speaker Brand | Burmester | — |
| Stereo Power | 590W | 730W |
| Speaker System | 13 | 17 |
| Subwoofer Count | 2 | 1 |
| Surround Audio | Discrete | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 6 months | 3 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | — |
| Premium Brand Speakers | — | Bang & Olufsen |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass Extended | 1st Row Power Glass Extended |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | ✓ | — |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.4 in. | 37.1 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.3 in. | 41.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.3 in. | 59.5 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 60.8 in. | — |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 10-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 3 | 2 |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 10-way | 8-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | — |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | 3 | — |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Driver Seat Ventilation | ✓ | — |
| Passenger Seat Ventilation | ✓ | — |
| Seat Material: Premium Leather | — | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 40.2 in. | 38.1 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 41.9 in. | 40.2 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.5 in. | 58.5 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 60.0 in. | — |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | ✓ | — |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | — |
| Wheel Size | 21 x 11.0 in. | — |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 315/40R21 | 285/40R22 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | Inside Mounted |
| Wheel Finish | — | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Diameter | — | 22 in |
Suspension
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | 6 yr./ 62000 mi. | — |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 3 yr./ 30000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and 2026 Audi SQ8.
How much more power does the Audi SQ8 have over the Mercedes GLS?
The 2026 Audi SQ8 packs significantly more power, delivering 500 hp. This is a hefty 125 hp advantage over the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, which produces 375 hp.
What is the real-world fuel cost difference between these two vehicles?
The difference is noticeable; the GLS offers 21 MPG combined while the SQ8 manages only 16 MPG combined, requiring premium unleaded in both cases. Over a year of driving, the 5 MPG difference will translate into higher annual fuel expenditure for the Audi.
Does the smaller Audi sacrifice much cargo space compared to the larger Mercedes?
Surprisingly, no. Despite the GLS being 205.0 inches long, the Audi SQ8 boasts a superior 33.7 cu ft of cargo space compared to the GLS's 17.4 cu ft, suggesting a configuration advantage for the SQ8 when carrying luggage.
If I'm only driving locally, which car has a better City MPG rating?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is the better option for city driving, achieving 19 MPG in the city. The Audi SQ8 drops to just 14 MPG in city conditions, making the GLS far more economical for stop-and-go traffic.
Is the higher MSRP on the Audi justified by the extra performance?
The 2026 Audi SQ8 costs $10,500 more than the 2025 GLS. You are paying a premium for the additional 125 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, as both are AWD luxury crossovers.
Which vehicle has a taller profile?
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is substantially taller, measuring 71.8 inches in height, providing a more upright seating position than the Audi SQ8, which stands at 67.0 inches tall.
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