2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS vs 2026 Audi RS 6
Comparison Overview
The primary divergence between the 2025 Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS and the 2026 Audi RS 6 is the $47,750 difference in MSRP, with the Maybach starting at $178,450 versus the Audi's $130,700. Despite the lower entry price, the RS 6 boasts superior performance metrics, delivering 621 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque compared to the Maybach GLS's 550 hp and 538 lb-ft. Fuel economy is marginally better in the RS 6, achieving a combined 16 MPG versus the Maybach's 15 MPG. Size-wise, the Maybach GLS is significantly taller at 72.4 inches versus the RS 6’s 58.6 inches, resulting in drastically different cargo metrics; the RS 6 Wagon offers 29.9 cu ft, nearly 11.5 cu ft more than the Maybach's 18.4 cu ft. Both utilize standard AWD and require premium fuel, but the Maybach's substantial premium targets pure luxury hierarchy over performance efficiency.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Audi RS 6
The Audi RS 6 offers superior fuel efficiency at 16 combined MPG and a slightly smaller footprint (196.7 inches long) suitable for more varied urban driving.
2026 Audi RS 6
The 2026 Audi RS 6 provides 29.9 cu ft of cargo capacity, substantially outclassing the Maybach GLS's 18.4 cu ft, despite being significantly lower to the ground at 58.6 inches high.
2026 Audi RS 6
The Audi RS 6 holds a measurable performance advantage with 621 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, easily surpassing the Maybach GLS's 550 hp and 538 lb-ft.
2026 Audi RS 6
The Audi RS 6 provides 71 more horsepower and over 11 cubic feet more cargo space for a $47,750 lower initial investment.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS if...
- You prioritize the maximum available ride height and luxury presence (72.4 inches tall).
- You require the slightly smoother 9-speed automatic transmission over the 8-speed unit in car 2.
- You prefer the traditional, elevated SUV body style despite its reduced cargo volume.
Choose the Audi RS 6 if...
- You seek maximum power output, specifically needing 621 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.
- You need maximum utility, as the wagon format provides 29.9 cu ft of cargo capacity.
- You are sensitive to the initial purchase price, saving $47,750 by opting for the Audi.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS | Audi RS 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 204.9" | 196.7" |
| Width | 79.9" | 76.8" |
| Height | 72.4" | 58.6" |
| Wheelbase | 123.4" | 115.3" |
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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 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 |
| 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 Multi-Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Washers | — | ✓ |
| Front Integrated Headrests | — | ✓ |
| Rear Fixed Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 4.0 L | 4.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | V8 | V8 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 550 hp @ 6500 rpm | 621 hp |
| Torque | 538 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm | 627 lb-ft |
| Number of Valves | 32 | 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 | — |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 13/18 MPG | 14/21 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 15 MPG | 16 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 309.4/428.4 mi. | 270.2/405.3 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23.8 gal. | 19.3 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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| 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 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sun Sensor | ✓ | — |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 10.1 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Brand Stereo System | Burmester | — |
| Premium Speaker Brand | Burmester | — |
| Stereo Power | 1590W | — |
| Speaker System | 27 | — |
| Subwoofer Count | 1 | — |
| Surround Audio | Discrete | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | With Real Time Traffic | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Subscription Duration | 36 months | — |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | — |
| Premium Brand Speakers | — | Bang & Olufsen |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | — | 3 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Sunroof Type | 1st Row Power Fabric Extended | — |
| Moonroof Type | 2nd Row Fixed Glass | 1st Row Power Glass Extended |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Dual Mirrors | ✓ | — |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 42.5 in. | 38.3 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.3 in. | 41.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.3 in. | 57.8 in. |
| Seat Material: Premium Leather | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 12-way | 10-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 | 12-way | 10-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 Massage Function | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 40.2 in. | 39.5 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 43.4 in. | 37.4 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 56.1 in. | 56.5 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | — |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | — |
| Heated Rear Seats (Multi-Level) | ✓ | — |
| Rear Seat Ventilation | ✓ | — |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | — | ✓ |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 22 x 11.5 in. | 21 in |
| Tire Type | Performance | Performance |
| Tire Size | 325/40R22 | 275/35R21 |
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 Maybach GLS and 2026 Audi RS 6.
What is the functional difference in size between these two vehicles?
The Maybach GLS is substantially larger externally, measuring 204.9 inches long and 72.4 inches high. In contrast, the Audi RS 6 wagon is shorter at 196.7 inches and much lower at 58.6 inches, prioritizing a performance stance over pure road presence.
How significant is the power discrepancy between the 621 hp Audi and the 550 hp Mercedes?
The 71-horsepower difference strongly favors the Audi RS 6 for performance driving dynamics. While both vehicles require premium unleaded fuel, the Audi’s superior torque (627 lb-ft vs 538 lb-ft) will translate into significantly faster acceleration and response times.
Does the SUV body style of the Maybach GLS offer better utility than the RS 6 Wagon?
Surprisingly, no; the Audi RS 6 Wagon offers 29.9 cu ft of cargo space, which is over 11 cubic feet more than the Maybach GLS's 18.4 cu ft. The Maybach's design prioritizes rear-seat passenger space and ride height over pure cargo volume.
Which vehicle presents a better daily commuting fuel economy?
Both vehicles are thirsty due to their high-performance nature, but the Audi RS 6 edges out the Mercedes, achieving 16 combined MPG (14 city/21 highway) compared to the Maybach's 15 combined MPG (13 city/18 highway).
What is the financial justification for choosing the significantly more expensive Maybach GLS?
The justification lies purely in brand cachet and elevated luxury specification, as the Maybach GLS commands a $178,450 MSRP, which is $47,750 more than the Audi, yet it yields less horsepower and less usable cargo space.
Are the transmissions in both vehicles comparable for everyday driving?
Both utilize advanced shiftable automatics, but the Maybach uses a 9-speed unit, potentially offering smoother, lower-RPM cruising characteristics for comfort. The Audi employs an 8-speed unit tuned more aggressively for performance duty.
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