Audi RSQ8 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC
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 GLC opens at $89,900. That makes the Mercedes-Benz GLC the more affordable entry point by $150,000.
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 $98,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mercedes-Benz GLC by roughly $1,710 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Audi RSQ8 and Mercedes-Benz GLC hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 93% for the Audi RSQ8 and 92% for the Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Audi RSQ8 stands out with Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, ventilated seats and Bang & Olufsen audio that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz GLC. The Mercedes-Benz GLC counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
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 GLC responds with a Petrol making 150kW and 300Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds.
The Audi RSQ8 has the clear power advantage at 463kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi RSQ8 is 4.6s 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, 296mm longer than the Mercedes-Benz GLC at 4,716mm (2,888mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi RSQ8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 605L in the Audi RSQ8 and 600L in the Mercedes-Benz GLC, giving the Audi RSQ8 a 5L advantage.
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.
11.9m diameter
Average
Based on 11.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,394/year for the Audi RSQ8 and $2,052/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLC. That is a $342 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Estimated annual total: $2,394 (Audi RSQ8) vs $2,052 (Mercedes-Benz GLC). The Mercedes-Benz GLC saves you roughly $342 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RSQ8) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLC). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Audi RSQ8 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLC if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi RSQ8 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. The Mercedes-Benz GLC will save you roughly $342 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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