Audi A5 vs A5: Know This Before Choosing

Audi’s vehicles are famous for their stylish design, excellent driving performance, and top-notch interior features. The brand is a solid choice for many car buyers. If you’re not a fan of SUVs and prefer a mid-sized car, you can choose between the Audi A4 and Audi A5. But which one should you go for?

In this guide, we’ll break down the details of each model and highlight their similarities and differences. Let’s get into the Audi A4 vs. A5.

Engines and performance

Audi A4

In the Audi A4, you have two petrol and two diesel choices, all equipped with automatic gearboxes. Quattro all-wheel drive is an option only on the most powerful 204bhp diesel engine; the others use front-wheel drive.

The 163bhp diesel engine stands out for fuel economy, with up to 58.9mpg and a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds. The 150bhp petrol engine achieves 45.6mpg and a slightly slower acceleration time.

If you prefer more power without sacrificing efficiency, the 204bhp petrol engine delivers 44.8mpg and quicker acceleration at 7.1 seconds. At the top end, the 204bhp diesel engine is the fastest in the Audi A4 range, reaching 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and offering a solid 53.3mpg.

Audi A5

The Audi A5 has a few engines to choose from, too. For example, the entry-level 35 TDI diesel has 163bhp and impressive fuel economy at 50mpg. For more power and speed, the 204bhp 40 TDI diesel comes with standard Quattro four-wheel drive and accelerates from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds.

For petrol enthusiasts, the 40 TFSI 204bhp engine is smooth, lively, and sporty — it accelerates from 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds while still achieving good fuel economy (up to 41.5mpg). At the top end, the 265bhp 45 TFSI petrol engine with Quattro four-wheel drive delivers outstanding acceleration — 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds.

Price

When comparing ownership costs between the A4 and A5, both models are closely matched in fuel economy figures, but there are notable differences in insurance and purchase costs.

The Audi A5 has a higher starting price than the A4 for equivalent engine and trim options. On top of that, the A5 commands higher insurance premiums than the similar A4 models due to its sportier profile and higher purchase price.

Year-one road tax costs vary across the A4 and A5 range. Higher-powered petrol and diesel models attract higher tax bands, particularly those exceeding £40,000 in initial cost.

Styling

Audi A4

The Audi A4, A5 Coupe, and A5 Sportback all have a stylish appearance with their distinctive Audi grilles and LED headlights up front. While they look similar from the front, the A4 is a practical five-seat saloon with a straightforward roofline and a slightly more upright windscreen than the A5 models.

The A4’s four-door layout prioritises passenger space and accessibility whereas the A5 Coupe’s sleek two-door design and sloping roofline give it a sportier look. The longer roofline of the A5 Sportback provides both a sporty appearance and increased room for rear passengers.

Audi A5

At the rear, both Audi models feature LED taillights and sporty bumpers. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 19 inches for the A4 and 18 to 20 inches for the A5 models, depending on the trim (SE, Sport, and S-line). Among them, the Audi A5 Coupe stands out as the sportiest choice, and it is great for those looking for a blend of performance and style in their Audi vehicle.

Driving

The A4 and A5 are both easy and comfortable to drive in town or on the motorway. They handle city streets smoothly, with light steering and a suspension that absorbs bumps well. This is especially true if you choose smaller wheels and avoid sportier suspension setups like the S Line. Parking is made easier with standard front and rear parking sensors. Due to its thicker pillars, the Audi A5 may offer less rear visibility compared to the Audi A4.

Out on the motorway, both cars perform admirably. There’s stable handling and minimal noise from wind and roads, particularly in the quiet petrol models. The diesel engines are good here, too, mainly due to their excellent fuel efficiency for long-distance driving.

When driving on winding country roads, the A4 and A5 each have their own style. The Audi A4 focuses more on comfort and ease of driving. Meanwhile, the Audi A5, especially in its Coupe version, has a touch of sportiness. It’s more about performance than sharp cornering agility.

Interior

The interiors of the Audi A4 and Audi A5 are very similar and well-regarded. They are designed to be simple, intuitive, and stylish, though less sporty or flashy than some of their rivals.

All the surfaces you touch regularly, like the leather-covered steering wheel and metal accents, feel premium and sturdy. Even the smallest details, such as soft-close lids on storage compartments, add to the luxurious feel.

As for the seating, leather seats are optional on the base Audi A4 Technik models but come standard on the Sport trim, including the mood lighting. Both Audi A5 models come standard with full leather upholstery for front and rear seats. The sportier S Line models add metallic pedals, aluminium dash accents, colourful stitching, and supportive Alcantara sports seats. Black Edition versions feature a flat-bottom steering wheel and black interior trims for added flair.

The top-of-the-line Vorsprung trim adds features like electric front seats, heated seats for front and rear passengers, and a panoramic sunroof.

Technology

Audi A4 models feature a 10-inch touch display by default, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, built-in sat-nav, and park assist. Audi A5 models also feature an infotainment system, but the screen is seven inches. If you’re looking for a larger screen, you’ll have to opt for Vorsprung trim levels, although the standard screen is sufficient for most users.

Similarly, the Virtual Cockpit, which displays vehicle stats and enhances the driving experience, is standard in A4 models but requires upgrading to the Vorsprung advanced features in the A5.

The Audi A5’s high-resolution centre display makes Google satellite images clear and vibrant. You can pinch to zoom like on a smartphone, although it’s less responsive than top-tier smartphones.

As for standout tech features in the Audi A4, you get a standard eight-speaker sound system. There’s an impressive upgrade option to a 19-speaker, 755-watt Bang & Olufsen system available with the Comfort and Sound Pack.

Boot space and practicality

Audi A4

It is worth considering who will be riding in the back seats. The A5 Coupe’s three-door design makes access to the rear seats challenging, with limited head and legroom, making them suitable mostly for small children.

The A4 and A5 Sportback both comfortably accommodate four adults. However, the A4 offers better headroom because of its more upright design. Both models include Isofix points on their rear outside seats, but the A4 provides easier access through its rear doors.

Audi A5

In terms of cargo space, the A5 Coupe has the least (450 litres), while the A4 and A5 Sportback offer similar capacities. The regular Audi A5 has a 455-litre boot capacity. By folding down the back seats with a simple lever in the boot, you can expand the total capacity to 980 litres. The regular A4 provides 460 litres, which expands to 965 litres when folded down in a 40:20:40 configuration.

Safety and reliability

Both the Audi A4 and A5 come with smart cruise control, lane departure alert, lane centring, automatic high beam assist, and front and rear parking sensors. The A5 also includes a collision mitigation braking system, pedestrian detection, and collision warning.

In 2015, both models received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating — they scored 89% for adults and 87% for children.

Similarly, both cars are known for their reliability, with positive feedback from consumer surveys and driver reviews. Questions regarding Audi’s reliability were raised in the past, but the brand has demonstrated progress in recent years. Audi repairs still come with a hefty price tag because of the high-quality parts used, but these parts tend to last longer, so there are fewer repairs over time.

Dimensions

These cars were designed with distinctive dimensions to suit different tastes. The A4 stands out with its longer and taller build, which makes for a spacious interior. Meanwhile, the A5 has a slightly shorter and lower profile, emphasising its sportier appearance.

Audi A4:

• Length: 4,762 mm
• Width: 2,022 mm
• Height: 1,428 mm

Audi A5:

• Length: 4,697 mm
• Width: 2,029 mm
• Height: 1,371 mm

Who is the Audi A5 for?

The Audi A5 is more suitable for professionals who value style and sophistication. It’s perfect for someone who frequently drives to work in the city and attends business meetings. This car fits well for social events and outings where making an impression matters.

If you prioritise a sporty, elegant design and a luxurious driving experience, the A5 is the better choice.

Who is the Audi A4 for?

The Audi A4 is more suitable for families who need a practical and reliable car. It’s ideal for daily life, school runs, and family trips. This car shines in scenarios where space and comfort are crucial, such as grocery runs, transporting sports equipment, or going on road trips.

The A4 is the perfect fit if you value a spacious interior, ample cargo room, and a smooth, dependable ride for your family’s needs.

Final words: Is Audi A4 vs. A5 your best option?

The Audi A4 and Audi A5 are similar cars, and both offer impressive options and comparable features, including engine choices and interiors. The decision largely depends on your daily needs:

• For practicality and space, the A4 Avant or Allroad are excellent choices.
• If you prefer a more stylish option without sacrificing too much practicality, the A5 is the preferred model.
• The Audi A5 Sportback manages to balance sporty appeal and practicality, making it suitable for those who enjoy a blend of both.

In summary, while the Audi A4 and Audi A5 are quite similar, your decision should be based on whether you prioritise space, style, or a balance of both. All models offer luxurious interiors, enjoyable driving experiences, and modern infotainment systems, ensuring comfort and quietness during your travels.