Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV vs Audi RSQ8
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 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV starts from $225,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi RSQ8 opens at $239,900. 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 $248,490 and $263,890 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 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and Audi RSQ8 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
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, Burmester audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Audi RSQ8. The Audi RSQ8 counters with Apple CarPlay and Bang & Olufsen audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV uses a Electric producing 265kW and 568Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.7 seconds.
The Audi RSQ8 responds with a Petrol making 463kW and 800Nm, paired to a 8-speed auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 3.6 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 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV measures 5,125mm long on a 3,210mm wheelbase, 113mm longer than the Audi RSQ8 at 5,012mm (2,998mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 645L in the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and 605L in the Audi RSQ8, 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 (Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RSQ8). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
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.
Buy the Audi RSQ8 if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Audi'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.
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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