Audi
A7
Mercedes-Benz
E-class
Audi A7 vs Mercedes-Benz E-class: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz E-class comes out ahead of the Audi A7 on fuel economy and 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
A7
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding the driving experience, design, and long-term reliability of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine (3.0T) and 3.0-liter TDI diesel powertrains. The A7 is consistently praised for its gorgeous, timeless design, exceptional comfort, refined handling with Quattro all-wheel drive, and practical hatchback body style. Owner feedback indicates high satisfaction with the vehicle's performance as a daily driver and long-distance cruiser, with specific acclaim for its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and high-quality interior build.
Best version to buy
The 2016-2018 model years with the 3.0T supercharged V6 gasoline engine (CREC version, 333 hp) are most frequently recommended. This iteration is noted for having design revisions that address earlier potential issues like carbon buildup (via dual port and direct injection) and updated chain tensioners.
Known issues
- ⚠Higher maintenance and repair costs compared to mainstream brands. Labor and part costs at dealerships are noted as expensive. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Water pump and PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure. Common replacement items typically needed between 60,000-100,000 miles (97,000-161,000 km). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Emissions system complexity (TDI models). The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, EGR, and associated sensors are potential failure points with high replacement costs, especially beyond 100,000 miles…
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 better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Audi A7, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Audi A7 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A7 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi A7 and the Mercedes-Benz E-class. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi A7 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi A7 is classed as a Liftback, the Mercedes-Benz E-class as a Sedan, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A7 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
The Mercedes-Benz E-class is more fuel-efficient on paper: 0.8-1 L/100km combined versus 1.3-1.6 L/100km for the Audi A7, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A7 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mercedes-Benz E-class than the Audi A7. See the known issues comparison above.