Audi RSQ8 vs Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Audi RSQ8 starts from $239,900 before on-road costs, while the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV opens at $225,900. That makes the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV the more affordable entry point by $14,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $263,890 and $248,490 respectively.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Audi RSQ8, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Audi RSQ8 and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Audi RSQ8.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV adds a 360-degree camera that the Audi RSQ8 misses.
Feature Showdown
The Audi RSQ8 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV gets a 12.8-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Audi RSQ8 stands out with Apple CarPlay and Bang & Olufsen audio that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, Burmester audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Audi RSQ8 gets leather upholstery while the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV offers nappa leather. Climate control is 3-zone in the Audi RSQ8 and 4-zone in the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.
Drivetrain
The Audi RSQ8 uses a Petrol producing 463kW and 800Nm of torque, sent through a 8-speed auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV responds with a Electric making 265kW and 568Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds.
The Audi RSQ8 has the clear power advantage at 463kW vs 265kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi RSQ8 is 3.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Audi RSQ8 measures 5,012mm long on a 2,998mm wheelbase, 113mm shorter than the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV at 5,125mm (3,210mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 605L in the Audi RSQ8 and 645L in the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, giving the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV a 40L advantage. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Audi RSQ8 leads with a 2,700kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 700kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.4m diameter
Large
Based on 12.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RSQ8) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Audi RSQ8 if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi RSQ8 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Audi RSQ8 and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV?
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is the cheapest at $225,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Audi RSQ8 by $14,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Audi RSQ8 uses the least fuel at 8.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Audi RSQ8 and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV has the largest boot at 645L.
Which can tow the most?
The Audi RSQ8 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,700kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Audi RSQ8 makes the most power at 463kW. The Audi RSQ8 is quickest to 100km/h in 3.6s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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