Driver FixRecommendedSound, Wi-Fi or graphics acting up? Check drivers firstFind missing or outdated drivers fast.Check DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan Now×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Audi Q9

Audi Q9 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS: Space, Comfort and Running Costs Compared

The Q9 offers seven seats or an optional six-seat layout; the updated GLS brings revised comfort equipment. German fuel figures help frame, but do not settle, running costs.

By CarCody Team 4 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The Audi Q9 and Mercedes-Benz GLS are both large luxury SUVs, but the available German-market figures do not establish an overall winner for space, comfort or ownership cost. Audi has announced the Q9 as a new flagship with seven seats standard and an optional six-seat layout; Mercedes-Benz has updated the GLS with comfort and cabin-technology changes across a multi-engine range. The most useful comparison depends on the exact market, engine, seat layout and equipment you are considering.

What is actually comparable?

The figures currently available are primarily for Germany. Audi’s Q9 launch price and fuel-consumption range relate to a German-market diesel model, while the GLS consumption figures are German WLTP ranges. They are not U.S. prices or EPA ratings, and they do not provide a same-market total-cost comparison.

Audi said Q9 deliveries would begin in Germany in the fourth quarter of 2026 and that availability in additional markets was under review in its July 29, 2026 announcement. Mercedes-Benz described the updated GLS in a March 31, 2026 release. Check local launch timing, model year, trim and equipment before treating either vehicle as available in your market.

Space and practicality

Audi Q9: published dimensions and seating

Audi lists the Q9 at 5.31 m long, 2.21 m wide including mirrors, 1.81 m high, with a 3.14 m wheelbase. Seven seats are standard; an optional six-seat layout replaces the second-row bench with two electrically adjustable individual seats. Audi also lists towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg. These are manufacturer-published specifications in the Q9 announcement.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
LISEN Retractable Car Charger, 84W Car Charger USB C Fast Charge,4 in 1
  • Never Let a Dead Battery Ruin Your Drive. The LISEN 4 in 1 Retractable Car Charger delivers reliable power for your entire journey. Compatible with standard 12V cigarette lighter sockets, it keeps phones, tablets, and devices charged during daily commutes, road trips, and long drives — the perfect practical gift for dads, truck drivers, and anyone who lives on the road.
  • Daily Driver Essential: Always Ready When You Need It. Featuring two retractable cables ( USB C & Old iPhone Charging Cable ) that extend up to 31.5 inches and dual USB ports, this charger solves cable clutter while charging up to 4 devices simultaneously. Ideal for busy fathers, commuters, and families who want a tidy car and never worry about low battery again.
  • Deliver full-speed PD fast charging for iPhone 18 Pro Max & iPhone 18 Pro Max & iPhone 18 Pro right inside your car. The built-in 45W PD USB-C port hits the peak charging speed for these latest iPhone models, juicing up your phone to 50% power in just 15 minutes while you drive.(Note: Maximum 45W PD output is available under 24V vehicle power supply. When used with standard 12V car sockets, the peak output is limited to 36W.)
  • Standard 12V Power Solution: Designed as a dedicated USB power supply for charging devices. Note: Does NOT support CarPlay, Bluetooth, or data transfer. Compatible with most phones, tablets, and small electronics. This retractable charger is a core car organization tool, keeping your vehicle tidy. Not compatible with Micro-USB devices.
  • Clutter-Free Tech Organization: Featuring dual USB ports and retractable cables, the LISEN 4 in 1 charger provides a clean car storage solution. Perfect for truck enthusiasts or as a thoughtful gift for drivers, it supports fast USB-C charging for devices like the iPhone 18Pro & iPhone 18 ProMax. Keep your vehicle organized while ensuring efficient power delivery for all your tech on the road.

Where the comparison stops

The available figures do not include directly comparable GLS dimensions, standardized passenger-room measurements, third-row legroom or luggage volumes for either SUV. The Q9’s length and wheelbase establish its exterior scale, but they cannot show which vehicle carries more luggage or offers more usable room with all seats occupied.

Audi’s earlier May 12, 2026 interior preview described a cargo rail system fixed to the trunk sides, electric doors, Qi2.2 wireless charging and roof rails with an included roof rack. For an actual purchase comparison, verify which features are fitted to the local vehicle and compare luggage space with the third row both in use and folded.

Rank #2
SINGARO Car Cup Holder Coaster, Silicone Cup Holder Insert, Universal Non-Slip Cup Holders, Car Accessories Interior for Women and Man Interior Sets 4 Pack Black
  • High Quality Material: The coaster is made of environmentally friendly silicone, safe, non-toxic and odorless. Soft with toughness, easily embedded in the cup holder. Very durable, wear-resistant, long service life. High temperature resistance, can withstand 100 ℃ high temperature water cups.
  • Wide Compatibility: The coaster has a diameter of 3.15 inches and a height of 1.18 inches, which is widely used in most vehicles, such as SUV, sedan, MPV, etc., as long as the size fits your car cup holder.
  • Protection Function: Our car cup holder coaster has a carry handle design and a stand-up ring edge on its edge to effectively prevent food crumbs, drinks and water from leaking out and preventing the car cup holder from getting dirty.Meanwhile,Thickened design effectively prevents the cup holder from being scratched by the cup when driving on bumpy roads and eliminates the annoying thumping sound, making your journey more enjoyable.
  • Easy to Use and Clean: With embedded installation, you just need to put it flat on the car cupholder. It is also very quick to remove, there is a small bump on the coaster, pinch it and you can easily remove the coaster. It is very easy to clean, rinse with water or wipe with a wet towel (be careful not to clean with sharp tools).
  • 100% Satisfaction: Our products have quality assurance, if you have questions or are not satisfied after receiving the product, don't worry, please contact us as soon as possible, we provide after-sales service.

Comfort and equipment

Audi Q9

Audi highlights the optional six-seat arrangement with powered individual second-row seats, powered doors, adaptive air suspension, rear-axle steering and a panoramic roof. This is manufacturer equipment and positioning, not an independent ride or comfort assessment; availability can vary by market and configuration. The precise local trim sheet matters, particularly for second-row adjustment, climate and entertainment equipment.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz says the updated GLS includes an MBUX Superscreen with a passenger display, a Rear Comfort Package Plus, AIRMATIC with cloud-based damper control and added acoustic insulation. Those are manufacturer descriptions in its March 2026 release; confirm standard versus optional equipment on the specific vehicle and in the relevant market. The company’s “S-Class of SUVs” wording is positioning, not an independent judgment of comfort.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Kaistyle for Magsafe Car Mount【Strong Magnet】 Magnetic Phone Holder for Car Phone Holder Mount Dash Mounted Holders Phone Holders for Your Car Accessories for Women Men for iPhone 18 Pro Max 17 16 15
  • ✅【Designed for Magsafe】 - The most fashionable iphone car mount in 2026 Magsafe is designed for iPhone 18 Pro Max/17/16/15/14/13/12 Pro Max Mini and official Magsafe cases and other magnetic phone cases and can be fixed directly to these phones without the need to affix metal plates. All Android Phones Will Work: Metal rings are provided; they fit cases and other phones without magsafe. Based on Unique Grandmaster Design (Protected by US Design Patent No. US D1,112,194 S)
  • ✅【STRONG MAGNETIC MagSafe Car Mount】 - This powerful magnetic phone holder can create a powerful attraction that firmly supports your device while allowing you to drive without distraction. it easily and securely holds your phone through bumps, sharp turns or even sudden stops, no worrying of dropping your phone.
  • ✅【SUPER STICK FORCE】 - VHB Dash Mounted Holders adhesive provides strong stick force between the dashboard and the car phone holder, which can firmly stick to any plane in the car, fix your device, adapt to a variety of road conditions such as sudden braking, speed bump, and rugged mountain road.
  • ✅【SAFE DRIVING VIEW】 - Mini-size, not taking up space, it is placed in the dashboard without blocking the view at all, and does not need to look down at the device to ensure your safe driving. Cell Phone Car Mount is suitable for most cars, pickups, SUV, taxi; It is the best assistant for Uber and Lyft drivers
  • ✅【360° FREE ROTATION】 - With an adjustable swivel ball joint, you can rotate your smartphone or device at your own will, providing the best viewing angle. Quickly pick and place with one hand, free your hands and make calls and GPS navigation more convenient

For a meaningful showroom comparison, check second-row access and adjustment, third-row entry, ride-system specification, wheels and tires, cabin noise, climate zones and which comfort features are included in the quoted trim. No independent head-to-head test is established by the available evidence.

Running costs: German-market figures

The following manufacturer figures use litres per 100 kilometres. The Q9 value is for the German launch diesel; Mercedes-Benz labels its GLS figures as combined WLTP consumption for Germany. Engine type and test basis differ, so these ranges are not a direct prediction of what one owner will spend.

Rank #4
YGDMD 2PCS Car Seat Gap Filler Organizer,2 in 1 Car Gap Filler (Black)
  • Buyer's Guide: The seat guard for car seat between seat & console measures 15.75*2.7*1.53", suitable for gaps of 1.43-1.53" in width, please double-check carefully the distance between your seat and the center console before placing an order
  • Storage and Filling in One: Differ from traditional single-function gap fillers, gap filler for car incorporates storage function, offers you the convenience of storing phones and various other items, so that you can access them at any time while driving
  • Avoid Items Slipping: With the bumps and vibrations of the car, phones, keys may fall into the seat crevices, which is difficult to pick up, and distracts the driver's attention. Car gap seat filler fills gaps seamlessly to create an effective barrier
  • Easy to Install: Car side seat gap filler is easy to install, simply insert it into the gap between the seat and the center console, gap seat filler for car can fit tightly without affecting the normal adjustment of the seat and the use of the seat belt
  • Premium Material: Crafted from premium EVA material, our car seat side gap filler boasts a combination of wear-resistant, softness&durability. Maintenance is effortless, simply rinse and wipe to quickly clean the dust and debris in corners and crevices
Vehicle and version German-market combined consumption Price information available
Audi Q9 TDI, 3.0-litre V6 diesel; 220 kW (299 PS), 630 Nm 7.4–8.0 l/100 km (29.4–31.8 US mpg); CO₂ emissions 194–209 g/km €108,400 starting price for the German launch model
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 petrol 10.9–9.9 l/100 km (combined WLTP) A comparable GLS starting price is not stated in the cited material
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350d and 450d diesels 8.5–7.8 l/100 km (combined WLTP) A comparable GLS starting price is not stated in the cited material
Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 13.7–13.1 l/100 km (combined WLTP) A comparable GLS starting price is not stated in the cited material

The Q9 specifications, price and consumption are from Audi’s launch announcement and German-market pricing and consumption release. The GLS ranges are from Mercedes-Benz’s March 2026 release. They are manufacturer-published figures, not independent real-world measurements. Mercedes-Benz notes that consumption depends on vehicle use and other factors.

The GLS ranges show why engine choice matters: its listed diesel and petrol versions have different consumption figures, as does the GLS 580. Comparing the Q9 diesel with a GLS petrol as if they were equivalent would obscure that difference. Nor does the Q9’s lower-looking figure alone prove it will cost less to own: fuel bills depend on local prices, annual mileage and real driving, while total ownership also depends on taxes, insurance, servicing, financing, warranty and depreciation.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
Stacool Upgraded Car Center Console Cover,Microfiber Leather Car Armrest Cover Cushion with 2 Storage Bags,Universal Car Armrest Storage Box (Black)
  • 🔰 UPGRADED SIDE STORAGE DESIGN - Our console cover is thinner than the old one, universal for all seasons. There is an 8.66*5.12 inch storage pocket design on each left and right side, expanding the storage space, convenient and practical. Meet the storage needs of the main passenger seat, you can store your cell phone, keys, tissues, ID and some other small daily items.
  • 🔰 PREMIUM MICROFIBER LEATHER MATERIAL - This car center console cover is made of quality microfiber leather material, soft and skin-friendly touch. Exquisite and fashionable diamond shaped stitching, every detail is in place. Inside the car center console cover is made of thickened memory foam, even after squeezing, it can slowly recover to its original shape.
  • 🔰 RELIEVE DRIVING FATIGUE - The arm rest cover for car adopts ergonomic design, giving just the right amount of arm support, effectively dispersing elbow pressure and relieving driving fatigue. Protect your car's center console from getting dirty or scratched. Especially suitable for long time driving or long distance traveling, bringing you a new experience of relaxation and comfort!
  • 🔰 NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSTALLATION - This car console cover is designed with an elastic band for a firm fit and not easy to shake. And the back side is full of protruding dots, which can effectively avoid the armrest cover from slipping and shifting. All you need to do is to open the center console cover, put the elastic band directly into the cover and then close it.
  • 🔰 BUYER'S GUIDE - You will receive a car armrest storage box with the size of 12.13*7.80 inch, please measure the size of your car's armrest storage box before you buy. We have prepared five simple and beautiful colors for you, you can choose according to your own preferences. Suitable for most of the vehicles on the market, such as car, truck, SUV, RV, van, etc.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

How to make a fair local comparison

  1. Confirm availability and model year. Ask a local dealer which Q9 and GLS versions can actually be ordered and when they will be delivered.
  2. Match the configuration. Compare the same seat count and similar comfort equipment, and note which items are standard or optional.
  3. Compare usable space in person. Bring the passengers and luggage you need to carry; check third-row access and cargo room with the seats in the positions you will use.
  4. Match powertrains and test methods. Compare like fuel types where possible and keep each official consumption figure attached to its market and homologation cycle. Do not treat WLTP as an EPA rating or a real-world promise.
  5. Build a local ownership estimate. Use the quoted price for the exact trim, local energy prices and your annual distance; add insurance, tax, scheduled service and financing only when you have comparable quotes.

Mercedes-Benz’s May 28, 2026 order information does not establish a GLS starting price in the cited material, so a German Q9 price should not be compared against a different model’s price or treated as a U.S. figure.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

More from the Garage

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.