Audi S6 vs Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
What's the difference?

Audi S6

—

2020 price

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Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

$66,500 - $91,300

2026 price

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Maserati Quattroporte

Mazda 6

Mercedes-AMG E63

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A35

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C43

Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz CLA

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Summary

2020 Audi S6

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

By Justin Hilliard

By James Cleary

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Twin Turbo V6, 2.9L

Turbo 4, 1.5L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

8.4L/100km (combined)

5.4L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Executive style
Improved value
Boy-racer performance

Refinement
Efficiency
Safety

Dislikes

Not SUV practical
A touch thirsty
Substandard warranty

Pricey servicing
Modest road feel
No physical spare tyre

2020 Audi S6 Summary

Most buyers don’t care for sedans these days, but those in the premium market are still spoilt for choice, with new model after new model being launched.

The latest on offer is the new Audi S6, which once again attempts to mix executive style with boy-racer performance.

With its predecessor’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 succeeded by an engine that is 1.1 litres and two cylinders short, does it still serve up enough bang for your back?

Of course, the only way to find out is to put the new S6 sedan to test, so that’s exactly what we did. Read on.

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2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Summary

Mercedes-Benz has shifted its CLA compact coupe-style sedan from support player to headline act with the introduction of this all-new, third-generation version.

It exemplifies the German giant’s multi-powertrain approach with an expansion of the local line-up from two pure-combustion variants to a five-model range comprising three hybrid and two pure-electric options.

CarsGuide was invited to sample the hybrid version of the newcomer (the EVs arrive in July), so stay with us to see if this sleek four-door is your kind of premium European compact sedan.

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Deep dive comparison

2020 Audi S6 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Verdict

We adore the new S6 sedan. It looks great, feels comfortable and goes like stink all at the same time. What’s not to like?

It also helps that it is relatively good value, safe and practical by large-sedan standards, so it’s a bit of a no-brainer.

But will buyers be quick to dismiss the new S6 sedan because it’s not a more practical SUV? Time will tell, but we hope not.

Does the new Audi S6 sedan represent the best mix of executive style and boy-racer performance? Tell us what you think in the comments below.

Verdict

The broadening of the CLA’s scope in this third-gen version puts it a step ahead of key rivals and raises the compact sedan’s prominence in the three-pointed star’s local line-up. Its combination of quality design, performance and efficiency is compelling. And we’ll drive the battery-electric version as soon as it lands.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Audi S6 vs Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Audi S6 vs Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
What's the difference?