DecodedCarsAudi A6 vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class
2026 Audi A6 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz E-Class — two rivals compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is more fuel-efficient: 28 vs 24 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $450 a year less in fuel for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has had fewer recall campaigns (0 vs 33).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi A6 is a midsize station wagon offered with a 3.0L 6-cyl turbo engine, including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 197 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 115-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,319 lb (4dr Sedan).
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a midsize car offered with 2 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 195 inches long and 75 inches wide on a 117-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 5,269 lb (Amg 4dr Sedan).
Buying used? The 2024 A6 and the 2024 E-Class have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2019 A6.
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 A6 if…
It doesn't clearly beat the Mercedes-Benz E-Class on any measure we track.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz E-Class if…
- You want lower fuel bills (28 vs 24 MPG)
- You put reliability history first (0 vs 33 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi A6
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Lots of standard safety tech4 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 E-Class
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Audi A6 specs →Full 2026 Mercedes-Benz E-Class specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →