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Audi A5 — US review

Audi A5 Review (2007–)

Specs, Features, Pros & Verdict

Audi US review Since 2007 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

SegmentCompact luxury coupé / convertible / sportback
Body Styles2-door coupé, 2-door convertible, 5-door Sportback
Release Year2007 (current second generation introduced 2017, refreshed 2020)
Trim Levels (U.S.)Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige

The Audi A5 represents the perfect blend of elegance, sportiness, and daily usability. Introduced in 2007, it brought coupe styling and grand-tourer comfort to Audi’s compact luxury lineup. Today, the A5 is offered in three body styles — coupé, cabriolet, and Sportback — giving buyers a stylish alternative to the A4 sedan.

With its sharp design, refined ride, and advanced technology, the A5 remains one of the most balanced and desirable choices in the luxury coupe segment.

Key Specifications

Engine2.0 L Turbocharged Inline-4 (TFSI)
Power201 hp @ 4,700–6,500 rpm (A5 40) / 261 hp (A5 45)
Torque236 lb-ft (A5 40) / 273 lb-ft (A5 45)
Transmission7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrainquattro AWD (standard on U.S. models)

0–60 mph: 5.3 s (A5 45)

Top Speed130 mph (electronically limited)
Dimensions (L×W×H)184.9 × 72.7 × 54.6 in (Coupé)
Wheelbase108.8 in
Curb Weight~3,750 lbs
Fuel Economy (EPA)26 city / 35 highway / 29 combined (A5 40)

Cargo Capacity

10.9 cu ft (Coupé)

9.3 cu ft (Convertible)

21.8 cu ft (Sportback)

Exterior Design

The A5’s design is timeless — a hallmark of Audi’s modern styling language. Its sleek profile, Singleframe grille, and Matrix-design LED headlights create a sophisticated yet athletic appearance.

Sharp body lines accentuate its coupe proportions, while the Sportback variant adds a practical hatch without losing elegance. The Cabriolet offers open-air luxury with a lightweight acoustic soft-top that operates in just 15 seconds.

S line trims enhance sportiness with more aggressive bumpers, chrome accents, and up to 19-inch alloy wheels.

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Inside, the A5 delivers Audi’s signature craftsmanship — minimalist design, solid materials, and impeccable attention to detail.

Soft-touch materials, aluminum or wood inlays, and ambient lighting create a refined environment. The Virtual Cockpit Plus digital instrument cluster and driver-oriented center stack emphasize technology and functionality.

Front seats are exceptionally comfortable, available with heating, ventilation, and massage. Rear-seat space is tight in the Coupé but more usable in the Sportback. Cabin insulation is excellent across all variants, with the Cabriolet’s soft-top effectively minimizing wind noise.

Features & Infotainment

10.1-inch MMI Touch infotainment system (wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)

12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus digital display

Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Audio System (optional)

Wireless charging and WiFi hotspot

Tri-zone automatic climate control

Keyless start / optional keyless entry

Heated steering wheel and front seats

Head-Up Display (Prestige)

Audi Connect with remote vehicle access

Safety & Ratings

NHTSA5-Star Overall Safety Rating
IIHSTop Safety Pick (2022, with specific headlights)

Standard Safety Tech (Audi Pre Sense suite)

Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Braking

Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist

Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist

Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

Parking Sensors and optional 360° camera system

Exit Warning (alerts occupants when opening doors)

Driving Performance & Handling

The A5 delivers poised handling and refined performance across its lineup. The 2.0L turbo engine provides strong mid-range torque, while the quattro AWD system ensures excellent traction in all weather conditions.

The A5 45 TFSI variant accelerates briskly and feels balanced through corners thanks to a well-tuned suspension and precise steering. Ride comfort is supple, especially with the adaptive damping option.

For buyers seeking more performance, the S5 and RS5 variants elevate the formula with turbocharged V6 and twin-turbo power, respectively.

Fuel Efficiency

A5 40 TFSI26 city / 35 highway / 29 combined
A5 45 TFSI24 city / 32 highway / 27 combined

Real-world figures are close to EPA estimates, and the mild-hybrid system on newer models enhances coasting efficiency and stop-start smoothness.

Practicality & Everyday Usability

While the Coupé and Cabriolet focus on style, the A5 Sportback excels in everyday versatility:

21.8 cu ft trunk (expandable via power-folding rear seats)

Wide hatch opening for easier cargo loading

Generous storage bins and comfortable driving position

Excellent visibility for a coupe-styled car

Easy maneuverability in urban settings

Warranty & Maintenance

Basic Warranty4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance4 years / unlimited miles
Free Maintenance1 year / 10,000 miles

Optional Audi Care prepaid service plan

Price & Value for Money

MSRP (2024 U.S.)

A5 40 Premium — $46,900

A5 45 Premium Plus — $51,200

A5 45 Prestige — $55,800

The A5 Sportback offers the best blend of practicality and luxury, while the Coupé and Cabriolet cater to style-focused buyers. Considering its design, craftsmanship, and technology, the A5 represents solid value within the luxury segment.

Comparison with Rivals

ModelPower (hp)Drivetrain0–60 mph (s)Starting Price ($)
Audi A5201–261AWD5.346,900
BMW 430i255RWD/AWD5.548,300
Mercedes C300 Coupe255RWD/AWD5.749,550
Genesis G70 2.0T252RWD/AWD5.641,500
Lexus RC 300241RWD/AWD6.345,470

The A5 balances elegance, technology, and performance better than most rivals, with superior interior quality and AWD traction.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Elegant, timeless design in all body styles

Excellent build quality and cabin refinement

Balanced performance and comfort

Standard AWD and mild-hybrid efficiency

Advanced infotainment and safety tech

Cons

Rear-seat space tight in Coupé/Cabriolet

Infotainment screen placement may feel low

Options can drive up price quickly

Overall Rating

4.6 / 5 Stars – A stylish, premium, and well-rounded luxury coupe that perfectly combines comfort, technology, and engaging driving dynamics.

Final Verdict

The Audi A5 is the ideal choice for buyers seeking sophistication and sporty elegance in a compact luxury car. Whether you choose the Coupé for design purity, the Cabriolet for open-air freedom, or the Sportback for daily practicality, the A5 delivers on refinement, performance, and premium comfort.

Its timeless design and balanced driving dynamics ensure it remains one of the segment’s best all-rounders.

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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.