Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs Audi E-Tron
What's the difference?

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

$170,169 - $424,900

2026 price

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Audi E-Tron

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2022 price

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Summary

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

2022 Audi E-Tron

By Mark Oastler

By Tom White

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Diesel Turbo 6, 2.9L

Electric motor type

Multi-Motor – Mixed Types

Fuel Type

Diesel

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Fuel Efficiency

7.8L/100km (combined)

Electric range

320 km

Energy consumption

27.0 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

95.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Big GVM/GCM ratings
Active air suspension
Performance/economy

Mean looks
Understated power
Mind-bending handling

Dislikes

No ANCAP rating
High purchase price
Intrusive voice activation

Feels its weight around town
Lacking some EV innovations
Energy efficiency

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Summary

The ‘Upper Large SUV over $120K’ segment of the Aussie new-car market is what you might call the top end of town, not only in terms of the extravagant models available but also their purchase prices, which stretch well into six figures and require monthly lease payments that rival home mortgages.

It’s where you’ll find some of the most prestigious marques in the automotive world including Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Range Rover, Lexus and BMW. And, of course, Mercedes-Benz with its big GLS which represents the flagship of the German manufacturer’s SUV fleet.

It was given a refresh in 2023 with cosmetic and multimedia upgrades along with powertrain enhancements, but there have only been minor changes since then. We were recently entrusted with the keys to the latest GLS to see if the ‘S-Class of SUVs’ leaves any room for improvement.

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2022 Audi E-Tron Summary

The e-tron S was inevitable.

The marriage of the latest automotive trends – sporty electrified SUVs with specific performance bits, the e-tron S is as much rooted in Audi’s future as it is in the present.

Having been one of the earliest fully electric German cars in the space, and now with a few years of age on it. Can the e-tron S shine as one of the best? Read on to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class 2022 Audi E-Tron

Verdict

The GLS450d impresses as an entry-level grade, as it’s a more family-friendly allrounder than the specialised AMG and Maybach variants. Its combination of a torque-rich diesel 48V hybrid drivetrain, air-cushioned suspension and plush interior are as well suited to luxury urban travel as they are to grand touring, where its heavy towing and generous load-carrying capabilities can shine. Whether it’s worth around $200K drive-away, only those who shop at the top end of town can decide.

Verdict

The e-tron S looks mean, feels premium, and blends serious power with surprising grace under pressure. I still can’t shake the feeling I had with the standard e-tron, though, that this car is an Audi sports SUV first and an electric car second, and its weight holds it back from being as fun to drive as I think some rivals are.

If you love Audi and you want to go electric without stepping into something too unfamiliar it’s a great option. If you want an electric car which takes full advantage of what the next generation of technology can offer, keep an eye out, there’s plenty of fresh metal on the way.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs Audi E-Tron What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs Audi E-Tron
What's the difference?