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?...

New Audi A7 Sportback & Mercedes-Benz CLS vs BMW 6 Series GT

Space and practicality

Front space, rear space, seating flexibility, boot

Each of our test cars came with a head room-reducing sunroof (standard in the 6 GT, optional in the A7 and CLS). You barely notice its effect in the 6 GT, but in the lower-slung CLS and A7, those over 6ft tall will feel more hemmed in for height. At least front leg room is plentiful across the board.

New Audi A7 Sportback & Mercedes-Benz CLS vs BMW 6 Series GT

It’s in the rear that the differences really tell. The CLS and A7 are wide enough only for two adults, and while there’s reasonable leg room for six-footers, again, head room is tight. The 6 GT is massive by comparison, with plenty of head room and more knee room than you’ll find in the 5 Series, so you can really stretch out.

It’s wider, too, so it can easily seat three abreast when required, while the optional (£420) electric reclining rear backrests make it feel more akin to a limo than a stylised coupé.

New Audi A7 Sportback & Mercedes-Benz CLS vs BMW 6 Series GT

The 6 GT also has the biggest boot, capable of swallowing up to nine carry-on suitcases. Mind you, the A7 managed eight cases and the CLS a still praiseworthy seven, although being the only one with a saloon-style boot-lid (rather than a hatchback tailgate), it struggles to accept bulkier items. All three cars have 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats for added flexibility.


Audi A7 Sportback

New Audi A7 Sportback & Mercedes-Benz CLS vs BMW 6 Series GT

Boot 535-1390 litres Suitcases 8


BMW 6 Series GT

New Audi A7 Sportback & Mercedes-Benz CLS vs BMW 6 Series GT

Boot 610-1800 litres Suitcases 9


Mercedes CLS

New Audi A7 Sportback & Mercedes-Benz CLS vs BMW 6 Series GT

Boot 520 litres Suitcases 7


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