Audi
A6
Owner report available
Mercedes-Benz
E-class
Owner report available
Audi A6 vs Mercedes-Benz E-class
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz E-class comes out ahead of the Audi A6 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
A6
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and powertrain. For the C7 (approx. 2012-2018) and C8 (approx. 2019-2023) generations, owner feedback is generally positive, praising the cars for their refined driving experience, comfortable and quiet ride, spacious interiors, and strong performance from the 3.0-liter engines (both TFSI and TDI). The A6 Allroad variant, in particular, receives high marks for its air suspension comfort, practicality, and impressive highway fuel economy.
Best version to buy
For the C7/C8 generations, the A6 Allroad 55 TDI (in Europe) and the A6 3.0T (55 TFSI) are highly recommended for their robust power delivery, torque, and reported reliability. The Prestige trim is favored for its comprehensive technology and comfort features, including the head-up display, massaging seats, and superior sound insulation.
Known issues
- High maintenance and repair costs: very frequent. General concerns about long-term reliability and expensive out-of-warranty repairs: very frequent. Wireless CarPlay connectivity issues (dropping, failure to connect): recurrent.
E-class
Overall
\nSentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and ownership context. For the W212 generation (approximately 2009-2016), owner feedback is generally positive regarding its solid build quality, reliability, and driving experience, with it being described as "pretty reliable" and "one of the best running cars" Mercedes has produced in recent decades. The W213 generation (approximately 2017-2023) receives praise for supreme comfort, refinement, and technology, particularly in plug-in hybrid (PHEV) diesel variants noted for excellent fuel economy.
Best version to buy
\nFor the W212 generation (2009-2016), the 2014-2017 model years are specifically recommended as being "well sorted." The E350 and E400 models with standard suspension (avoiding AIRMATIC air suspension if reliability is a priority) are cited as rock solid. For the W213 generation, the E300de (diesel plug-in hybrid) estate is highly praised for its combination of comfort, refinement, and fuel efficiency.
Known issues
- \nHigh maintenance and repair costs: Includes expensive routine servicing, premium fuel requirement, costly parts (e.g., wiper motor, brake lines, air suspension components), and labor.
The verdict
The Mercedes-Benz E-class is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Audi A6, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mercedes-Benz E-class are a dealbreaker, the Audi A6 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A6 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mercedes-Benz E-class than the Audi A6. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Audi A6 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi A6 is classed as a Sedan, the Mercedes-Benz E-class as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A6 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
The EPA rates the 2027 Audi A6 at 105–127 MPGe combined and the 2027 Mercedes-Benz E-class at 25–28 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A6 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.