Feature
Audi A7 Sportback vs BMW 6 Series GT vs Mercedes CLS
Mercedes-Benz set the trend for four-door coupés with the original CLS. Does the latest model continue to lead the way ahead of its German rivals?
Our verdict
This market usually values style over practicality; we know that. But we don’t dish out points for looks; that’s for you to decide. We do, however, accept that the BMW 6 Series GT looks kooky to many people; our Twitter desirability poll proved that, with it receiving the lowest number of votes.
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But even if you were to ignore space and practicality completely, the 6 GT still racks up the most stars, including in key areas such as infotainment, costs and equipment. Factor in the huge boot and lounge-like rear seating and it simply wins by a bigger margin.
If the 6 GT still isn’t for you (and we’d understand why), the Audi A7 Sportback is your best bet, due in part to its exquisitely made interior and superb long-distance cruising credentials. The Mercedes CLS is close behind, though, and thanks to its seriously impressive diesel engine, tidy handling and cocooning interior, it’s the most appealing for those looking for something a little more sporty.
Steve Huntingford
Updated: 1 March 2019
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1st – BMW 6 Series GT
For Brilliant infotainment; cheap in this company; very practical; high-quality interior
Against Stodgy handling; divisive styling
Recommended options Two-axle air suspension (£1670); adjustable lumbar support (£275)
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What Car? rating 4/5
Read our full BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo review
Find a great BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo deal
2nd – Audi A7 Sportback
For Classy interior; smooth high-speed ride on optional air suspension; practical boot
Against Annoying gearbox; so-so infotainment; poor rear space
Recommended options Adaptive air suspension (£2000); increased fuel tank (£110)
What Car? rating 3/5
Read our full Audi A7 Sportback review
Find a great Audi A7 Sportback deal
3rd – Mercedes CLS
For One of the best diesel engines in the world; enjoyable handling; eye-catching interior
Against Ride is firm and there’s road and suspension noise; cramped rear space
Recommended options Premium Plus Pack (£3895)
What Car? rating 3/5
Read our full Mercedes-Benz CLS review
Find a great Mercedes-Benz CLS deal
Specifications: Audi A7 Sportback 50 TDI quattro S Line
- Engine size 6cyl, 2967cc, diesel
- List price £58,155
- Target Price £51,320
- Power 282bhp @ 3500-4000rpm
- Torque 457Ib ft @ 2250-3000rpm
- Gearbox 8-spd automatic
- 0-60mph 6.1sec
- Top speed 155mph
- Gov't fuel economy 48.7mpg
- CO2 emissions 150g/km
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Specifications: BMW 6 Series GT 630d M Sport
- Engine size 4cyl, 1618cc, turbo, petrol
- List price £55,825
- Target Price £49,371
- Power 261bhp @ 4000rpm
- Torque 457Ib ft @ 2000rpm
- Gearbox 8-spd automatic
- 0-60mph 6.0sec
- Top speed 155mph
- Gov't fuel economy 49.5mpg
- CO2 emissions 150g/km
Specifications: Mercedes CLS 400d 4Matic AMG Line
- Engine size 6cyl, 2925cc, diesel
- List price £61,215
- Target Price £56,591
- Power 335bhp @ 4400rpm
- Torque 516Ib ft @ 1200-3200rpm
- Gearbox 9-spd automatic
- 0-60mph 5.0sec
- Top speed 155mph
- Gov't fuel economy 47.9mpg
- CO2 emissions 156g/km
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