Audi SQ8 e-tron vs Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
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 SQ8 e-tron starts from $180,090 before on-road costs, while the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV opens at $225,900. That makes the Audi SQ8 e-tron the more affordable entry point by $45,810.
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 $198,099 and $248,490 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Audi SQ8 e-tron stands out with V2L and Bang & Olufsen audio that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV counters with Burmester audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Audi SQ8 e-tron uses a Electric Motor producing 370kW and 718Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.5 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 SQ8 e-tron has the clear power advantage at 370kW vs 265kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi SQ8 e-tron is 2.2s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 114kWh (Audi SQ8 e-tron) vs 108.4kWh (Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV), giving WLTP ranges of 471km and 616km. DC fast charging peaks at 170kW (Audi SQ8 e-tron) vs 200kW (Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV).
Space & Comfort
The Audi SQ8 e-tron measures 4,915mm long on a 2,928mm wheelbase, 210mm 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 569L in the Audi SQ8 e-tron and 645L in the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, giving the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV a 76L advantage. The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV seats 7 vs 5.
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 SQ8 e-tron) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Audi SQ8 e-tron if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV if: You need more boot space, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi SQ8 e-tron takes 6 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. 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.
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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