DecodedCarsAudi Q7 vs Mercedes-Benz EQS
2026 Audi Q7 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS — two rivals compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
That works out to about $3,000 a year less in fuel for the Mercedes-Benz EQS (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Mercedes-Benz EQS is the bigger car, about 3 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Mercedes-Benz EQS has had fewer recall campaigns (18 vs 31).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi Q7 is a standard SUV offered with 2 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 199 inches long and 78 inches wide on a 118-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,938 lb.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS is a large car powered by electricity and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 207 inches long and 76 inches wide on a 126-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 5,856 lb (Class 450 4dr Sedan).
Buying used? The 2024 Q7 and the 2024 EQS have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2017 Q7 and the 2022 EQS.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Audi Q7 if…
It doesn't clearly beat the Mercedes-Benz EQS on any measure we track.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz EQS if…
- You want an EV with more range (390 miles)
- You put reliability history first (18 vs 31 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi Q7
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS
- Long EV rangeUp to 390 miles on a charge (EPA).
- AWD / 4WD available
Full 2026 Audi Q7 specs →Full 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →