A8 D5 vs S-Class W222: which is better?
Audi A8 D5 (2017–present) vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222 (2013–2020): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Audi A8 D5
Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222Specifications
| Audi A8 D5 | Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2017–present | 2013–2020 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.0 TFSI (55 TFSI) | 4.7 V8 Biturbo (S500) |
| Power, up to | 340 hp | 455 hp |
| Torque, up to | 500 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 172 mm | 5 116 mm |
| Width | 1 945 mm | 1 899 mm |
| Height | 1 473 mm | 1 496 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 998 mm | 3 035 mm |
| Fuel tank | 72 L | 70 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 42 425 ₸ | ≈ 510 925 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Audi A8 D5
Pros
- Gearbox ZF 8HP: a reliable gearbox
- Powerful versions: up to 340 hp
- Large tank: 72 L
- Currently in production — can be bought new
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 8HP: rarely, mechatronics and bushings at high mileage
Gearbox (ZF 8HP): reliable gearbox; rarely — mechatronic and bushings at high mileage.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 455 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M254/M256/M276/M278/M176: complex engines, expensive to repair
- Gearbox Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9): control board failure (speed sensors)
Engine (Mercedes M254/M256/M276/M278/M176): engines are complex and expensive to repair; oil leaks and chain issues occur on M276/M278 at high mileage.
Gearbox (Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9)): control board failure (speed sensors); valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- A8 D5 — if you care more about: fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- S-Class W222 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: A8 D5 or S-Class W222?
A8 D5: up to 340 hp, S-Class W222: up to 455 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: A8 D5 — about 42 425 ₸, S-Class W222 — about 510 925 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.