Mercedes CLS Vs Audi A7: Expert Coupe Comparison

Luxury four-door coupes blend sleek aesthetics with grand touring comfort, and the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Audi A7 Sportback stand out as prime contenders. Both vehicles deliver impressive diesel performance, high-tech interiors, and refined handling, but differences in power delivery, cabin quality, and practicality set them apart. This comparison draws on real-world testing to highlight their strengths and determine the better choice for enthusiasts seeking style without sacrificing usability.

Design and Exterior Appeal

The Mercedes CLS pioneered the four-door coupe segment with its flowing lines and aggressive stance. Its latest iteration features a long hood, sculpted flanks, and a fastback roofline that emphasizes sporty elegance. LED headlights sweep rearward, paired with a bold grille that signals premium intent. AMG Line trim adds 20-inch alloys and subtle aero enhancements for a planted look.

In contrast, the Audi A7 Sportback adopts a sharper, more angular profile. Its wide stance, matrix LED lights, and frameless doors create a modern, athletic presence. The hatchback tailgate improves access compared to the CLS’s traditional boot, while S line styling includes quad exhausts and 21-inch wheels. Both cars measure around 4.97 meters long, but the A7 appears more stretched due to its slit-like rear windows and subtle character lines.

• CLS strengths: Timeless curves and emotive proportions evoke classic grand tourers.
• A7 advantages: Bolder, faceted design feels fresher and more aggressive.

Wind resistance favors the A7 slightly at 0.27 Cd versus the CLS’s 0.26 Cd, contributing to efficient highway cruising.

Powertrains and Performance

Under the hood, diesel options dominate for torque-rich pulling power suited to long journeys. The CLS 400d employs a 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel producing 335 hp and 700 Nm, mated to a nine-speed automatic and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. It surges to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds despite a 1,935 kg curb weight, with top speed limited to 155 mph.

The A7 50 TDI quattro counters with a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel offering 282 hp and 620 Nm, paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic and quattro system. Mild-hybrid tech via a 48-volt setup aids smoothness, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds at 1,880 kg. Both deliver serene in-gear acceleration, but the CLS edges ahead in outright pace.

Mercedes’ rear-biased 4MATIC provides sharper turn-in, making the CLS more engaging on twisty roads. Audi’s front-biased quattro prioritizes stability and comfort, excelling in wet conditions. Petrol variants like the CLS 450 (362 hp inline-six with EQ Boost) offer similar refinement but thirstier economy around 30 mpg combined.

Chassis Dynamics and Ride Quality

Mercedes equips the CLS with air suspension in AMG Line guise, delivering a composed ride over lumps. However, it transmits more road noise and harshness than rivals, especially on 20-inch wheels. Steering is precise but lacks ultimate feedback, suiting effortless motorway miles.

The A7 shines here with optional adaptive dampers that iron out imperfections better, feeling plusher overall. Its lighter weight and sophisticated suspension yield superior body control, blending sportiness with isolation. Braking is strong on both, with the Audi halting slightly shorter from 70 mph.

• CLS: Agile handling with rear-drive feel, but firmer ride.
• A7: Smoother compliance, predictable grip.

Real-world tests confirm the A7’s edge in everyday usability, while the CLS rewards spirited drives.

Interior Luxury and Technology

Mercedes’ dual 12.3-inch screens form a ‘widescreen cockpit’ with MBUX infotainment. Voice control (‘Hey Mercedes’) is intuitive, and haptic steering wheel buttons add flair. Materials mix leather, metal, and gloss black, though some plastics feel less premium up close. Front seats are sumptuous with massage functions; rear space suffers from the swoopy roof.

Audi’s cabin employs dual touchscreens above minimal physical controls, plus the reconfigurable Virtual Cockpit. Build quality is exemplary, with soft-touch surfaces throughout. The A7 offers marginally more rear headroom and a hatchback boot (535 liters vs CLS’s 520 liters), enhancing versatility.

Standard kit on both includes adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and 360 cameras. Audi’s system feels more responsive, while Mercedes prioritizes visual drama.

Practicality and Ownership

Despite coupe-like profiles, both seat four adults adequately upfront. Rear legroom is generous (CLS: 35.4 in, A7: 36.9 in), but headroom dips under 36 inches. The A7’s liftback swallows more luggage with seats folded (1,390 liters vs CLS’s 1,400 liters trunk max), and easier loading.

Running costs are close: similar 38 mpg tests, £450 annual tax, and three-year warranties. Mercedes edges insurance groups higher due to power. Reliability favors Audi per owner surveys.

Pricing and Value

UK prices start the A7 50 TDI at £58,155 versus CLS 400d at £60,740 (AMG Line). Fully loaded, expect £70,000+. Leasing deals mirror this, with Audi often cheaper upfront. Resale holds strong for both, with Mercedes commanding a slight premium.

Which One Wins?

The Audi A7 Sportback takes the crown for its balanced excellence: superior ride, tech polish, and practicality without diluting style. The CLS fights back with rawer performance and charismatic design, ideal for those prioritizing thrills. Choose based on priorities – comfort (A7) or verve (CLS).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mercedes CLS faster than the Audi A7?

Yes, the CLS 400d accelerates to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds versus the A7’s 5.6, thanks to higher power and torque.

Which has the better interior?

Audi’s materials and layout feel more upscale and user-friendly, though Mercedes’ screens dazzle.

Are they fuel efficient?

Both achieve around 38 mpg in tests, with the A7 slightly ahead at 38.9 mpg.

What’s the boot space like?

A7 offers 535 liters (hatch), CLS 520 liters (sedan-style), both expanding over 1,300 liters folded.

Which is more reliable?

Audi edges out in surveys, but both are solid luxury options.