A6 e-tron vs S-Class
Two makers, one class, one decision: the A6 e-tron from Audi or the S-Class from Mercedes-Benz. Close matchups are the hardest to call, and the A6 e-tron versus the S-Class is one of them.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance S-Class wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
Key Differences
-
The S-Class has 67 hp more power
Among all the differences on this page, 442 hp against 375 hp is one of the most meaningful, and it favors the S-Class. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
S-Class leads
This section belongs to the S-Class. In engine & performance, it leads the A6 e-tron by a margin that’s hard to ignore. Point to the S-Class for 67 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. Prioritize engine & performance, and the S-Class is where you should land.
Total system output
A6 e-tron: 375 hp S-Class: 442 hp The S-Class’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The A6 e-tron and the S-Class match each other closely in this area. In short, space & practicality is a draw; the decision lies elsewhere.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Both the A6 e-tron and the S-Class cover off-road & towing equally well on paper. For off-road & towing, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the A6 e-tron and the S-Class differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | A6 e-tron | S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | Single rear electric motor | 3.0L turbo I6 |
| Total system output | 375 hp | 442 hp (winner) |
| Torque | N/A (not specified) | 413 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD (quattro AWD available) | AWD (4MATIC) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | A6 e-tron | S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 24 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 21 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 31 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | A6 e-tron | S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | A6 e-tron | S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | A6 e-tron | S-Class |
|---|---|---|
| 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 S-Class if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (442 hp vs 375 hp)
- you trust Mercedes-Benz and want to keep things familiar
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the A6 e-tron or the S-Class?
On the specs compared here, the S-Class makes more sense for most buyers; the A6 e-tron doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Two companies, two answers to the same question. That’s how I see the A6 e-tron from Audi and the S-Class from Mercedes-Benz. If I had to name one reason, it’s that the S-Class brings 67 hp more power.
The way I see it, people who prioritize the things a spec sheet can’t capture will be happier with the A6 e-tron, and those who prioritize engine & performance with the S-Class.
My pick: the S-Class.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.