Mercedes-Benz GLE 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 GLE starts from $128,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi RSQ8 opens at $239,900. That makes the Mercedes-Benz GLE the more affordable entry point by $111,000.
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 $141,790 and $263,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mercedes-Benz GLE by roughly $1,425 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi RSQ8 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and 93% for the Audi RSQ8.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz GLE packs more ADAS features with 7 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 GLE 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 GLE 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, ventilated seats and Bang & Olufsen audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz GLE uses a Diesel producing 195kW and 500Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 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 195kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi RSQ8 is 3.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz GLE measures 4,924mm long on a 2,995mm wheelbase, 88mm shorter than the Audi RSQ8 at 5,012mm (2,998mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi RSQ8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 630L in the Mercedes-Benz GLE and 605L in the Audi RSQ8, giving the Mercedes-Benz GLE a 25L advantage. The Mercedes-Benz GLE seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Mercedes-Benz GLE leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,700kg. That 800kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m diameter
Large
Based on 12.1m 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 $2,109/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and $2,394/year for the Audi RSQ8. That is a $285 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Estimated annual total: $2,109 (Mercedes-Benz GLE) vs $2,394 (Audi RSQ8). The Mercedes-Benz GLE saves you roughly $285 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLE) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RSQ8). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLE if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi RSQ8 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz GLE takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mercedes-Benz GLE will save you roughly $285 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi RSQ8?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the cheapest at $128,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Audi RSQ8 by $111,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE uses the least fuel at 7.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi RSQ8 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 GLE has the largest boot at 630L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
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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