Q8 e-tron vs GLE
The Q8 e-tron and the GLE sit in the same midsize luxury suv class, but Audi and Mercedes-Benz don’t always agree on what matters most. On paper, these two are close. Only a handful of specs separate them by a margin you’d actually notice.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Q8 e-tron wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.8
- Engine & Performance0.7
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 Q8 e-tron has 147 hp more power
For total system output, the Q8 e-tron leads by a wide margin: 402 hp versus 255 hp. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The Q8 e-tron has 195 lb-ft more torque
This is a headline difference. With 490 lb-ft to the GLE’s 295 lb-ft, the Q8 e-tron has a lead that’s easy to see on paper and in practice. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Q8 e-tron leads
The engine & performance comparison is one-sided. The Q8 e-tron leads where it counts. The Q8 e-tron gives you 147 hp more power. The Q8 e-tron’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. In short, the Q8 e-tron is the better-equipped car for engine & performance.
Total system output
Q8 e-tron: 402 hp GLE: 255 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Torque
Q8 e-tron: 490 lb-ft GLE: 295 lb-ft The Q8 e-tron’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
This area ends level; whatever separates these two, it isn’t space & practicality. Both cover space & practicality well enough that other priorities should break the tie.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Evenly matched is the fairest summary of the off-road & towing section. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the Q8 e-tron and the GLE differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | GLE |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | Dual electric motors | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 402 hp (winner) | 255 hp |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft (winner) | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | RWD (4MATIC AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | GLE |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 23 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 21 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 28 mpg |
| Electric range | 272 mi Shortest electric range | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | GLE |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | GLE |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | GLE |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Q8 e-tron if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (402 hp vs 255 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (490 lb-ft vs 295 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Audi and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Q8 e-tron or the GLE?
On the specs compared here, the Q8 e-tron makes more sense for most buyers; the GLE doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Honestly, the Q8 e-tron versus the GLE is one of those matchups where your priorities matter more than the logo. For me, the deciding factor is that only the Q8 e-tron gives you 147 hp more power.
Put simply, the Q8 e-tron suits people who care about engine & performance, while the GLE suits people who put the things a spec sheet can’t capture first.
My pick: the Q8 e-tron.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.