Infiniti
Q70
Owner report available
Mercedes-Benz
E-class
Owner report available
Infiniti Q70 vs Mercedes-Benz E-class
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz E-class comes out ahead of the Infiniti Q70 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
Q70
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, heavily dependent on engine choice and model year. The naturally aspirated 3.7L V6 (VQ37VHR) and 5.6L V8 (VK56VD) engines are widely praised for their strong power, reliability, and longevity, with the 3.7L noted as being "rock solid" and the V8 described as "fun as shit to drive." The vehicle is appreciated for its handsome looks, comfortable and capable handling on both back roads and interstates, and spacious interior, particularly in the long-wheelbase (L) models. Significant and consistent criticism is directed at the outdated, overly complicated, and slow infotainment system and gauge cluster, which is described as feeling a generation behind competitors.
Best version to buy
2014 and newer Q70 with the 5.6L V8. This recommendation is based on mechanical quality-of-life updates that addressed known issues from the preceding M56 generation, such as the timing chain and rear-wheel steering.
Known issues
- Outdated and problematic infotainment system: described as overly complicated, slow, and a generation behind; Bluetooth connectivity issues with multiple phones. Frequency: very frequent.
- Unresponsive 7-speed automatic transmission: significant lag and delay in kick-down, especially in default and Eco modes; harsh, noticeable shifts; described as having a "dead spot" and being sluggish. Frequency: very frequent.
- Poor fuel economy: consistently reported as a downside for both the 3.7L V6 and 5.6L V8 engines. Frequency: very frequent.
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 Infiniti Q70, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mercedes-Benz E-class are a dealbreaker, the Infiniti Q70 is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti Q70 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mercedes-Benz E-class than the Infiniti Q70. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti Q70 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Infiniti Q70 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 Infiniti Q70 or the Mercedes-Benz E-class?
The EPA rates the 2019 Infiniti Q70 at 18–21 mpg combined and the 2027 Mercedes-Benz E-class at 25–28 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti Q70 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.