2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 vs 2026 Audi Q7 Premium
22 more lb-ft torque vs AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 255 vs 261 hp, 23 vs 22 MPG.
The GLE GLE 350 leads on 22 more lb-ft torque. The Q7 Premium leads on AWD. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 | 2026 Audi Q7 Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $62,250 | $62,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 22.5 gal | 22.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,650/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,806 lbs | 4,839 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 117.9" | 117.9" |
| Length | 194.3" | 199.6" |
| Width | 76.7" | 77.5" |
| Height | 70.7" | 68.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 4yr/50k | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 4yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 and 2026 Audi Q7 Premium?
The 2026 Audi Q7 Premium starts at $62,000, $250 less than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 at $62,250. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $83/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Audi Q7 Premium?
The 2026 Audi Q7 Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $250 in your pocket and the 2026 Audi Q7 Premium covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 or 2026 Audi Q7 Premium?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 rates 23 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 or 2026 Audi Q7 Premium?
The 2026 Audi Q7 Premium produces 261 hp, 6 more than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 at 255 hp. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 also leads in torque at 295 lb-ft vs 273 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: RWD on the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350, AWD on the 2026 Audi Q7 Premium.
Is the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 bigger than the 2026 Audi Q7 Premium?
The 2026 Audi Q7 Premium is 5.3″ longer at 199.6″ vs 194.3″.
Do the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 and 2026 Audi Q7 Premium have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Audi Q7 Premium comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 uses RWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain.
Explore more: Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz GLE trims, Audi trims, Audi Q7 trims
The GLE–Q7 Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the GLE and Q7 compare. The $-250 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo engine. The 6 hp difference (261 vs 255) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Audi Q7 Premium comes with AWD; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 uses RWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 saves roughly $83/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $415.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $83/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Audi Q7 Premium when you want to keep $250 in your pocket and the 2026 Audi Q7 Premium covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Mercedes-Benz or Audi or any dealership.