Audi Q8 vs Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 Comparison 2026: Price, Mileage, Features

Comparison overview: The Audi Q8 starts at ₹1.13 Cr and the Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 at ₹94.05 L, a difference of ₹19.05 L ex-showroom. On-road in New Delhi that gap becomes roughly ₹21.15 L. Here is what the extra money actually buys.

Engine and performance: The Audi Q8 uses a 2,995cc Petrol making 335bhp@5200 - 6400rpm and listed torque with Automatic. The Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 uses a 1,991cc Petrol making 402.30bhp@6750rpm and listed torque with Automatic.

Mileage and running cost: These two figures are not like for like. The Audi Q8 number is for the Petrol Automatic and the Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 number is for the Petrol Automatic, so compare the variants you are actually shortlisting.

What one gives that the other does not: The Audi Q8 adds Side Airbag-Rear, Anti-Theft Device, 360 View Camera, Global NCAP Safety Rating and Global NCAP Child Safety Rating. The Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 adds Knee Airbags, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill Descent Control, Projector Headlamps and Fog Lights. The rest of both spec sheets is shared.

Which one should you buy?

Buy the Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 if you drive mostly in the city, you want the lower running cost, and you would rather keep the ₹19.05 L for your down payment than spend it on features.

Buy the Audi Q8 if you do regular highway runs, you carry luggage or a pram often, and you want Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) without waiting for the next facelift.

The one thing that settles it: Audi Q8 offers Side Airbag-Rear.

Before you sign anything:

Ex-showroom price is not what you pay. Add registration, road tax, insurance and handling, and expect the final figure to land ten to twelve percent higher. Road tax changes state to state, so a car that costs the same in two cities does not cost the same to own.

Ask the dealer four things before you book. What is the current waiting period for the variant you want. What is the on-road figure.

Then drive both cars back to back on the same day, on a road you actually use. Take your family. Put your usual luggage in the boot. Most people decide in the first ten minutes, and it is rarely for the reason they expected.