Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs Audi A5
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A5 are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 30 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Across 2 measured categories, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class leads in 2. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2027
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Subcompact Cars · 123 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Audi A5 |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 30 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 28 mpg ✓ | 26 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 36 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,550 | $2,550 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 215 g/mi ✓ | 300 g/mi |
| Engines offered | SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI | SIDI;, SIDI, SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; FFV |
| Transmissions | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd | Automatic (AM-S7), Manual 6-spd, Automatic (S8) |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Premium, Premium and Electricity | Premium, Premium or E85 |
| EPA class | Subcompact Cars | Subcompact Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2027 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 123 | 40 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
C-Class vs A5: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or the Audi A5?
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A5 are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 30 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Audi A5 runs about $2,550 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,550 for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class — a difference of roughly $0 per year.
What engines do the C-Class and A5 offer?
Mercedes-Benz C-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI. Audi A5: SIDI;, SIDI, SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; FFV.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Audi A5 as Subcompact Cars, so they compete directly.
More C-Class comparisons
Comparison id: mercedes-benz-c-class-vs-audi-a5