Is the Audi E-Tron-GT more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Based on our data, the Audi E-Tron-GT is more reliable with an average score of 68/100 compared to 58/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.

Which has more recalls, the Audi E-Tron-GT or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has more recalls (184) compared to the Audi E-Tron-GT (46). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.

Which has fewer owner complaints, the Audi E-Tron-GT or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Audi E-Tron-GT has a lower complaint rate at 5.2 per 10,000 sold versus 7 for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-03-04

Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Reliability Compared

More Reliable

Audi E-Tron-GT

Good

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mixed

Choosing between the Audi E-Tron-GT and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two midsize sedans.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Audi E-Tron-GT currently leads with an average score of 68/100 compared to 58/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Audi E-Tron-GT and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is in its sixth generation (W214), which debuted in 2023. The E-Class has a long history of development, with each generation building on the strengths of its predecessor. The current generation is early in its cycle, which may mean it could be subject to initial production issues that are common with new platforms. However, past E-Class models have generally improved over time, especially after mid-cycle facelifts, which have historically addressed early reliability concerns. The Audi E-Tron GT, introduced in 2021, is still in its first generation. A facelift occurred in 2024, which likely addressed initial model-year issues and refined the vehicle's systems. Being relatively mature in its generation, the E-Tron GT benefits from the resolution of early production bugs, potentially offering better reliability at this stage compared to a newly introduced model.

Verdict

The Audi E-Tron-GT is more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, scoring 68/100 vs 58/100.

The Audi E-Tron GT edges out the Mercedes-Benz E-Class in terms of reliability, boasting a higher average reliability score of 65/100 compared to the E-Class's 58/100. Both vehicles have the same owner complaint rate of 7 per 10,000 sold, but the E-Tron GT's lower recall frequency—46 across 4 years versus the E-Class's 184 over 8 years—suggests fewer systemic issues. Common problems in both models include electrical and power train issues, yet the E-Class additionally struggles with engine, steering, and other unspecified problems. Overall, the E-Tron GT offers a more reliable ownership experience, particularly due to its better recall history.

Key Differences

1Audi E-Tron-GT has 138 fewer total recalls
2Audi E-Tron-GT scores 10 points higher in reliability
3Audi E-Tron-GT has 1.8 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

3Audi E-Tron-GT

—

0Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Which Is More Reliable?

Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Audi E-Tron-GT	Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability Score	68/100	58/100
Years Tracked	4	8
Total Recalls	46	184
Complaints per 10k Sold	5.2	7
Year Wins	3	0

What Are the Common Problems With the Audi E-Tron-GT and Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class demonstrates a broader range of complaint categories with a total of 469 complaints, notably in the electrical system with 36 complaints, including 3 crash-linked incidents. This model also shows significant issues in engine (21 complaints) and power train (18 complaints) areas. In contrast, the Audi E-Tron-GT has a narrower problem profile with only 21 complaints overall, primarily concentrated in the electrical system (8 complaints) and power train (5 complaints). The E-Class's higher frequency of crash-related complaints in the electrical and steering systems suggests a more critical safety concern compared to the E-Tron-GT.

Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class common problem areas comparison
Component	Audi E-Tron-GT	Mercedes-Benz E-Class
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	2Low	0.5Very Low
POWER TRAIN	1.2Low	0.3Very Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	—None	0.4Very Low
ENGINE	—None	0.3Very Low
STEERING	—None	0.2Very Low
SEAT BELTS	—None	0.2Very Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION	—None	0.1Very Low
TIRES	—None	0.1Very Low
STRUCTURE	—None	0.1Very Low
WHEELS	—None	0.1Very Low
AIR BAGS	—None	0.1Very Low
FUEL SYSTEM	—None	—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	—None	—None
SERVICE BRAKES	—None	—None
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	—None	—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

How Does Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Reliability Compare by Year?

Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Audi E-Tron-GT	Mercedes-Benz E-Class	Edge
2024	67/10010R / 1C	63/1001R / 7C	Audi E-Tron-GT
2023	65/10015R / 10C	63/1005R / 20C	Audi E-Tron-GT
2022	64/10020R / 10C	60/1008R / 19C	Audi E-Tron-GT

Best years to cross-shop: The 2024 Audi E-Tron-GT scored 67/100 and the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class scored 63/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Audi E-Tron-GT vs the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

If you prioritize a more reliable option with fewer recalls, the Audi E-Tron-GT is a compelling choice. With a reliability score of 65/100 and only 46 total recalls, it offers a more dependable experience. The E-Tron-GT also shares the same low owner complaints rate of 7 per 10,000 sold as the E-Class, making it suitable if you desire peace of mind regarding reliability. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the prestige and features of a Mercedes-Benz, the E-Class could still be appealing despite its lower reliability score of 58/100 and higher number of recalls at 184. However, be prepared for potential issues in areas such as the electrical system and power train. Consider this option if brand loyalty and luxury features are your top priorities.

Audi E-Tron-GT vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Common Questions

Is the Audi E-Tron-GT more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?: Based on our data, the Audi E-Tron-GT is more reliable with an average score of 68/100 compared to 58/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Audi E-Tron-GT or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?: The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has more recalls (184) compared to the Audi E-Tron-GT (46). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Audi E-Tron-GT or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Audi E-Tron-GT has a lower complaint rate at 5.2 per 10,000 sold versus 7 for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

More Audi E-Tron-GT comparisons

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More Mercedes-Benz E-Class comparisons

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How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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