Overview
Meet the Audi A5: where dynamic performance meets refined daily driving comfort. The new Audi A5 might be exactly what you need. This sleek executive saloon replaces the A4 in Audi’s lineup, bringing fresh styling and improved technology to the competitive premium car market. It’s designed for professionals who want something more distinctive than the usual company car choices.
From the first glance, the A5 makes a strong impression with its coupe inspired roofline and sharp design language. The bold front grille and sculpted bodywork give it a confident presence that stands out from rivals like the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C Class. Step inside and you’re greeted by Audi’s signature high quality interior, complete with their latest infotainment technology and premium materials throughout. Everything feels solid and well engineered, exactly what you’d expect from this price bracket.
Behind the wheel, the A5 delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience that makes both daily commutes and longer journeys feel effortless. The range of efficient engines provides plenty of performance while keeping running costs reasonable. It’s a car that successfully balances style, comfort, and practicality. While it commands a premium price, you’re getting Audi’s renowned build quality and a car that feels special every time you drive it.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.1
Comfort & Interior
4.6
Running Costs
3.7
Practicality
4.2
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
What's the Audi A5 Like to Drive?
The Audi A5 focuses on refined performance rather than outright speed. The engine lineup includes efficient petrol and diesel options, all featuring mild hybrid technology for improved fuel economy. The entry level 2.0 TFSI petrol produces around 204 horsepower, delivering smooth acceleration and a 0 to 60 time of approximately 7.3 seconds. For those wanting more punch, the S5 variant offers significantly more power with its turbocharged V6 engine.
What really impresses is how composed the A5 feels on the road. The steering is precise and well weighted, giving you confidence whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling country lanes. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between ride comfort and handling precision. This executive saloon soaks up road imperfections beautifully while remaining controlled through corners. The refined nature of the drivetrain means it’s equally at home cruising on the motorway or threading through urban traffic with minimal fuss.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.0L 4-cylinder TFSI petrol / 2.0L TDI diesel
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Power Output
204 - 367 bhp
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0-60 mph
7.3 - 4.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
38 - 52 mpg
- Boot Space
- 445 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Audi A5 Interior, Tech & Comfort Review
Audi’s interior mastery reaches new heights in the A5, where every surface reflects meticulous attention to quality. The dashboard design is clean and modern, dominated by dual touchscreens for the infotainment and climate controls. Materials throughout feel genuinely premium, with soft touch plastics, quality leather, and precisely fitted trim pieces. The build quality is exceptional, with every switch and control operating with satisfying precision that reinforces the car’s upmarket positioning.
Front seat comfort is excellent, with supportive seats that work well for both short trips and long distance journeys. There’s generous adjustment range to help drivers of all sizes find their ideal position. The cabin is impressively quiet, with excellent sound insulation keeping road and wind noise to a minimum. Standard equipment includes wireless smartphone integration, digital instruments, and three zone climate control. The ambient lighting system and premium audio options available on higher trim levels further enhance the sophisticated atmosphere inside.
The Audi A5 successfully delivers a compelling blend of style, quality, and refinement that will appeal to discerning buyers. Its standout interior, smooth performance, and distinctive looks set it apart from more conventional executive cars. The build quality is exemplary and the driving experience is polished and satisfying. Technology features are comprehensive and intuitive to use.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Audi A5?
Owning an Audi A5 means accepting ownership costs aligned with its premium executive status. The mild hybrid petrol engines deliver respectable real world fuel economy, typically achieving between 38 and 45 MPG depending on driving conditions. The diesel options can return over 50 MPG on longer runs, making them attractive for high mileage drivers. Insurance groups are reasonable for this class, though they’ll be higher than mainstream alternatives.
The initial purchase price is the biggest consideration, with the A5 commanding a significant premium over non premium rivals. However, strong residual values help offset this, and car finance options can make monthly payments more manageable. Audi’s reputation for reliability with recent models is generally positive, though servicing costs at main dealers can be expensive. The comprehensive warranty coverage and predictable maintenance schedules help with budgeting. Overall, while not the cheapest option, the A5 offers reasonable value considering its quality and desirability.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Audi A5
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BMW 3 Series
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Mercedes C-Class
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| Starting Price | £38,000 | £36,500 | £37,500 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L TFSI 204hp | 2.0L 184hp | 2.0L 204hp |
| Power | 204 bhp | 184 bhp | 204 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 seconds | 7.8 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 42 mpg | 44 mpg | 40 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 445 litres | 480 litres | 455 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Premium interior, Advanced tech, Sporty styling | Dynamic handling, Rear wheel drive, Strong performance | Luxurious cabin, Smooth ride, Refined engines |
Audi A5 Practicality & Boot Space
The A5 proves surprisingly practical for an executive car with sporty pretensions. The 445 litre boot is generously sized, easily accommodating a family’s luggage for a week away or several sets of golf clubs. The loading lip is reasonably low and the opening is wide, making it easy to load bulky items. The rear seats fold down to extend cargo space when needed, and there are useful storage compartments throughout the cabin for everyday items.
Rear seat space is adequate for adults on shorter journeys, though taller passengers might find headroom slightly restricted due to the sloping roofline. The car works well for small families or as an executive car for business use. For those needing maximum space, competitors like the BMW 3 Series offer slightly more room. However, the A5 strikes a good balance between style and substance, offering enough practicality for most buyers while maintaining its distinctive coupe like profile. Among used Audi cars, it represents a smart blend of elegance and everyday usability.
I’ve had my A5 for six months now and I’m absolutely delighted with it. The interior quality is superb and it’s so refined to drive. The technology took a little getting used to but now I love it. Perfect car for my daily commute and weekend trips.
The Audi A5 commands respect as an executive car that genuinely stands apart from its competitors. It successfully combines Audi’s renowned build quality with striking design and advanced technology. The refined driving experience, premium interior, and efficient engines make it an excellent choice for buyers who want something special for their daily drives.
You choose the A5 when you want an executive car that doesn’t look like every other car in the company car park. Its sophisticated styling, exceptional interior quality, and smooth performance deliver genuine premium appeal. It’s ideally suited for professionals who appreciate fine details and want a car that reflects their success. With flexible car finance calculator guide options available, the A5 represents an achievable step into luxury motoring.