Audi Q5 FY vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205
Audi Q5
FY · 2016 – 2024
The second-generation Q5 on the longitudinal MLB Evo platform.
VS
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
W205 · 2014 – 2021
The fourth-generation C-Class on the rear-drive MRA platform.
First car
Second car
Verdict
Pick this one if…
Audi Q5
Pick the Q5 for refinement, a big boot and quattro traction in a premium mid-size SUV.
Best engine: The 40 TDI (190 hp diesel) — the thrifty, torquey sweet spot.
Read the full guide
Pick this one if…
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Pick the C-Class for an S-Class-inspired interior, a hushed ride and efficient engines in a premium compact executive sedan.
Best engine: The C 220 d (194 hp diesel) — the thrifty, torquey sweet spot.
Read the full guide
Performance
EA888 45 TFSI · Petrol vs M274 C 200 · Petrol
| Audi Q5 | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
Winner
|
184 hp
|
| Torque |
370 Nm
Winner
|
300 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,3 s
Winner
|
7,2 s
|
| Top speed |
237 km/h
|
237 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
125,2 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
183 g/km
|
131 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
8,1 L/100km
|
5,8 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| Audi Q5 | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
550 L
Winner
|
480 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.550 L
|
—
|
| Wheelbase |
2,82 m
|
2,84 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,66 m
|
4,69 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,0 cm
|
13,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
11,8 m
|
11,2 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
Winner
|
1.800 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| Audi Q5 | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | MLB Evo (longitudinal) | MRA (rear-wheel-drive base) |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | EA888 petrol · EA288 diesel · plug-in hybrid | M274/M264 petrol · OM651/OM654 diesel · plug-in hybrid |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic | 9G-Tronic (9-speed) |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6 |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
Audi Q5
- S tronic (DSG) needs maintenance on early cars
- AdBlue/SCR issues on 2.0 TDI diesels
- Early MMI infotainment quirks
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- OM651 diesel: stretched timing chain on early cars
- 9G-Tronic can shift jerkily (early software)
- COMAND (NTG5) infotainment can freeze
Pros
Audi Q5
- Big boot (550 l) & roomy cabin
- Refined, composed ride (quattro)
- Efficient, torquey EA288 diesel
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- S-Class-inspired interior with high-grade materials
- Quiet, refined ride (optional Airmatic air suspension)
- Efficient OM654 diesel (post-facelift)
Cons
Audi Q5
- Firm ride on S line / big wheels
- Pricier than most rivals
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- Firm ride on AMG Line + big wheels
- Limited rear headroom (sloping roofline)
For sale at dealers
Audi Q5
7 for sale · from € 13.950
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€ 23.999
Garage des Chaufours SRL
Garage des Chaufours SRL
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Trend Cars
Trend Cars
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Bayern Motors NV
Bayern Motors NV