A6 vs EQS
The A6 and the EQS are two different answers to the same midsize luxury car brief, each with its own set of priorities. The gap between the A6 and the EQS is narrow enough that price, looks or habit could reasonably tip it.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance EQS wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance0.2
- Engine & Performance4.4
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
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The EQS has 94 hp more power
Among all the differences on this page, 355 hp against 261 hp is one of the most meaningful, and it favors the EQS. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The EQS has 146 lb-ft more torque
The A6 gives up a lot on torque: 273 lb-ft, compared with 419 lb-ft on the EQS. The EQS’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
EQS leads
The EQS clearly takes the engine & performance round. Point to the EQS for 94 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. Bottom line for engine & performance: the EQS has the edge.
Total system output
A6: 261 hp EQS: 355 hp The EQS’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
A6: 273 lb-ft EQS: 419 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
If space & practicality matters most to you, this section won’t make the decision for you: they’re level. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The off-road & towing specs are close enough that neither gets the point. Net result on off-road & towing: level.
Safety & Tech
Here the spec sheet speaks in model names and types. Compare the A6 and the EQS row by row in the table below.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | A6 | EQS |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (12V mild hybrid) | Electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 261 hp | 355 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft Least torque in class | 419 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch (S tronic) | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | RWD (4MATIC AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | A6 | EQS |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 26 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 24 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 31 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 390 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | A6 | EQS |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | A6 | EQS |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | A6 | EQS |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the EQS if…
- you want more power (355 hp vs 261 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (419 lb-ft vs 273 lb-ft of torque)
- you prefer staying with Mercedes-Benz
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the A6 or the EQS?
On the specs compared here, the EQS makes more sense for most buyers; the A6 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
On paper, the A6 and the EQS chase the same buyer. In the details, Audi and Mercedes-Benz made different calls. The EQS has 94 hp more power, and for most people that’s not a small thing.
If the things a spec sheet can’t capture is your thing, the A6 fits. If engine & performance matters more, the EQS makes more sense.
My pick: the EQS.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.