The Audi A5 is a luxury compact car that was introduced as a 2008 model year.
It is known for its style, premium driving experience, and hatchback practicality.
In this article, we’ll be analyzing all of the best and worst model years of the A5.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Audi A5 Are:
The best Audi A5 model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2017, 2016, 2015, and 2008. The worst model years of this model are 2013, 2014, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2018, 2009, and 2019. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Audi A5?
2023 Audi A5
The 2023 A5 comes as a hard-shell coupe or droptop convertible and is one of the best-looking sedans on the market.
It is known for its classy and upscale interior, strong overall performance, and a variety of standard and optional features.
New for this particular model are standard 18-inch 5-spoke wheels and matrix LED headlights for better visibility.
It comes in 6 trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, Premium Plus S Line, Prestige, and Prestige S Line.
Among these options, the midrange Premium Plus S Line (with a base price of $52,895) is the most popular pick.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
2023 A5, Edmunds review:
“Overall I give it 4 stars. I tend to have high expectations when it comes to cars, and it’s difficult to find a vehicle in today’s market that checks all of the boxes. This car comes close, with some minor annoyances…”
2022 Audi A5
The 2022 A5 is part of the second generation introduced for 2018, it has an elegant design and a sizeable cargo hold, competent handling and acceleration, and a multitude of standard tech features.
A pair of turbo four-cylinders are offered, and all models come standard with Quattro AWD.
New for this model year is standard sport suspension tuning for the coupe and hatchback models and a Black Optic package as an add-on for the hatchback.
There are 3 trims offered: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige.
The midrange Premium Plus is a good choice as it comes with upgraded LED headlights, a bigger digital instrument panel, and a surround-view camera system.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
2022 A5, Edmunds review:
“I bought the car CPO in October of last year. I can’t say enough about how impressed I am with the overall performance. It’s peppy, quiet and very comfortable. After owning a BMW 440, an Infiniti Q50, and a Mercedes E350 I am sold on the Audi brand…”
2021 Audi A5
The 2021 model year is a 2nd-gen A5 that is sleek, reliable, and competent on the road.
For 2021 a new 12-volt mild hybrid system was introduced adding 13 horsepower and Wireless Apple CarPlay and lane departure warning became standard.
Top features are Audi Pre Sense City, Audi Side Assist, and Vehicle Exit Warning.
The 2021 A5 received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
You can expect around 28 MPG for combined city and highway driving based on EPA estimates.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
2021 A5, Edmunds review:
“This is my second consecutive Audi A5 Cabriolet and I’m an enthusiastic supporter of this car. I traded out of my low mileage 2014 model entirely based on the migration of virtually all of the latest technology & safety features from the higher end Audi models to the current A4 & A5 platforms…”
2020 Audi A5
With updated exterior styling, a new touchscreen infotainment system, and a more robust software interface, the 2020 model year is another great pick.
Available as either a coupe or cabriolet, there are 3 main trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige.
The 2020 A5 comes with a potent 248hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive and a wide range of features.
If you are seeking a good balance between feature availability and pricing, the midrange Premium Plus should suit your needs. Notable tech features include front and rear parking sensors, a wireless charging pad, and a blind spot monitor, among other great features.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
2020 A5, Edmunds review:
“This car is a great follow-up to the prior generation A5. I bought the Sportback after owning the prior generation Coupe. Feels like the same car. The fit, finish and performance are excellent. The dealership Sewell in Houston is phenomenal. I love the MMI navigation and controls…”
2017 and 2016 Audi A5
The 2017 and 2016 A5s are the final model years of the 1st generation and have proven to be very reliable with minimal complaints lodged on the NHTSA website.
They have classic styling, standard all-wheel-drive, a smooth ride and upscale interiors.
These A5s come with a 220-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and are available with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission
New for 2016 is the S Line package as a standard across the lineup, Audi Connect services are available on the base Premium trim, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system comes as standard on the Premium Plus trim.
Owners praise the following aspects: handling, steering, value, infotainment system, reliability, manufacturing quality, fuel efficiency, and acceleration.
The EPA estimates fuel economy at 25 to 26 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
2017 A5:
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: NA
2016 A5:
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
2017 A5, Edmunds review:
“I’ve owned the car for about three months now. I traded in a 6 year Acura TL which I loved. I was a little worried about going from a 6 cylinder to a 4 cylinder. I was worried for no reason. I’m completely happy with the torque of the 4 cylinder turbo. And the engine is quieter and smoother than my Acura’s 6 cylinder. The A5 has a great balance of sporty and fun or comfortable and smooth. For a similar price to a BMW 3 series I get real leather interior…”
2015 Audi A5
If you are in search of a classy vehicle that provides confident handling, generous features, and head-turning good-looks, the 2015 A5 is a great choice.
Available in both coupe and cabriolet, it is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
New for this model year are xenon headlights and LED running headlights and tail lights as standard features.
Navigation is also made available for the entry-level trim.
For the midrange Premium Plus, owners get to benefit from a now-standard S Line exterior package.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
2015 A5, Edmunds review:
“There are cars you ride in and cars you drive. This is a driver. Skip the FWD car with the CVT transmission. You want the Quattro version with the magnificent ZF 8HP transmission. Car feels solid like a block of granite, with little wind noise. Over MPH in winter time is around 22-25 on premium fuel…”
2008 Audi A5
While it is uncommon to see the very first model year of any model as one of the best, the 2008 A5 is the exception. The owners reviews speak for themselves, 5/5 on Edmunds and 4.7/5 at Kelley Blue Book.
Based purely on the A4 platform, the 2008 A5 marks the beginning of a sharper and more stylish 2-door alternative to the 4-door offering of the A4.
It is elegant inside and out, provides crisp handling, and is made of sturdy high-quality materials.
Owners appreciate this model for the following aspects: appearance, interior, reliability, manufacturing quality, handling, steering, driving experience, and technology.
- Edmunds: 5.0/ 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
2008 A5, Edmunds review:
By far the sexiest car in 2008 and 2 years later still holding its sex appeal. Fun to drive, ahead of the design curve. Turns heads like Kim Kardashian’s backside…”
Consumer Scores For Best Audi A5 Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Audi A5 | NA | NA |
| 2023 Audi A5 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 |
| 2022 Audi A5 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 |
| 2021 Audi A5 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 |
| 2020 Audi A5 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 |
| 2017 Audi A5 | 4.6 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2016 Audi A5 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 |
| 2015 Audi A5 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 |
| 2008 Audi A5 | 5.0 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 |
Related: 14 Top Sports Cars with a Sunroof (With Pictures)
What Are The Worst Years For The Audi A5?
2013 and 2014 Audi A5
The 2013 and 2014 A5 models were notorious for engine-related problems such as excessive oil consumption, coolant leakage, fuel pump failure and total engine failure.
Reports suggest owners suffered from these issues relatively early in their ownership, typically under 100,000 miles.
Owners have shared the following complaints:
“Couple years ago my engine failed, it was recalled and company refused to pay for it. I payed for it and afterwards my radio module failed, camera failed, the check engine light is on since I bought the car and recently my car stopped on the highway fast lane without warning.” – CarProblemZoo.com
“Major Engine Failure, 2014 A5 With At 60,000 Miles.” – CarComplaints.com
“Oil consumption; just started with A5 needing a quart of oil before the next oil change, then quickly started getting worse. I kept going to the dealer, they kept saying its normal here is your free quart of oil. It got to be a quart for every other tank of gas when I said again is this a problem. Finally the dealer suggested a test. Failed both. Need a new engine because I waited to long. The whole process of 1 quart between oil changes to 1 quart every other tank of gas, to engine failure took only 6 months.” – CarComplaints.com
Recall notices were eventually handed out but due to the large number of affected units, parts availability and servicing were not accomplished within a reasonable period of time.
- The 2013 A5 had a total of 5 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 43 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2014 A5 had a total of 5 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 29 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Cam belt tensioner failure
- Fuel injector failure
- Drive chain failure
- Valve spring cracked
- Zero cylinder compression
- Hydraulic timing chain failure
- Steering sticks
2010, 2011, and 2012 Audi A5
The 2010, 2011, and 2012 A5 model years were affected by the infamous Takata airbag recall which was linked to the following:
- Airbag deployment failure
- Metal chunks flying out and injuring owners when airbag is deployed
- Airbag and steering wheel warning indicators illuminating
- Multiple electrical issues
Due to the widespread nature of this recall, not all owners were provided with a swift repair.
“Takata recall – have been trying to get the recall done for almost 2 years. Audi has stopped making repairs and has been saying they are coming out with a final repair shortly. This has not changed in months.”
“Takata recall. I have call for the past year to have this recall fixed and have not been able to find an Audi dealership that has the parts. They keep telling me they will call when the parts are in.”
As noted by several reports online, dealerships would always claim that “parts are not available.”
- The 2010 A5 had a total of 2 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 42 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2011 A5 had a total of 14 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 32 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2012 A5 had a total of 6 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 29 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Oil warning light on
- Timing belt broke
- Faulty turbo charger
- Excessive fuel consumption
2018 Audi A5
Although not a clunker by any means, a common problem that has been reported on the 2018 A5 is the shattering of the sunroof, for no apparent reason.
“I was traveling around 7 pm on a highway and the sunroof shattered unexpectedly. The car ahead of me was two car lengths ahead of me and I’m unsure as to why it shattered, specifically in the center of glass.”
“Driving straight, about 60 mph on a two lane road, far removed from any other vehicles, my sunroof/moonroof glass exploded. There was no previous visible damage that I was aware of. No other vehicles around to have kicked up a rock or stone. Exploded without warning.”
Another common problem was the sun visor would break easily.
“$59,000 list and the sun visor falls off…really. I’ve been driving for 50+ years and never had this problem before… and I had a 1968 Fiat Spider.”
“The driver’s side sun visor fell off…. The same thing happened 8 months ago. I’ve never had this problem with any other car.”
- The 2018 A5 had a total of 5 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 24 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Broken sun visor
- Windshield wiper malfunction
- Defective sun visor
2009 Audi A5
The 2009 A5 had complaints of engine problems with some owners reporting excessive oil consumption.
“When I purchased it within a month I needed a new oil change, low oil. I have noticed that my car uses quite a bit of oil and oil changes are frequent. I have not put 10K miles and am going on my 4th oil change due to level displaying low oil. I have no oil leaks as I have been watching it.”
“Problem arose with the A5 after the last service at 60,000km, when the oil consumption “jumped”. I am now using 1 litre oil (Castrol Edge Professional as supplied by Audi) per 1000km. This means that I always have to drive with a couple of litre oil in the boot [trunk], just in case the alarm comes up away from an Audi dealership.”
Other owners reported engine surging when starting cold or when shifting into drive or reverse.
- The 2009 A5 had a total of 2 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 17 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Engine surging
2019 Audi A5
The 2019 A5 received a number of complaints for a temperamental driver Pre Sense System (technology package that includes driver-assist tech to boost safety).
Owners reported various issues, one of which is a warning stating “Pre-sense Malfunction Contact Service”.
Here is what owners had to say on the NHTSA website:
“I was stopped in a turn lane to make a left turn across 3 lanes of opposing traffic on a major US highway. I started the turn and the pre-sense system stopped the car as it was entering the opposing lane of traffic almost causing a disaster as the oncoming traffic was moving at approximately 50 – 60 mph. Fortunately for the oncoming car, the lane adjacent was empty at the moment so they could move over and pass me safely as I was stuck in the lane of oncoming traffic with the brakes automatically applied.”
“On three different occasions, I have experienced automatic emergency braking of the car which, rather than keeping me safe, placed me in a very dangerous situation”
- The 2019 A5 had a total of 13 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Safety tech / driver assistance features faulty
- Electronic power steering failure
Related: 12 Best and Worst Audi A4 Years (With Facts & Stats)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Audi A5 | – | – | – |
| 2023 Audi A5 | 0 | – | 0 |
| 2022 Audi A5 | 0 | – | 2 |
| 2021 Audi A5 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
| 2020 Audi A5 | 0 | 4 | 4 |
| 2019 Audi A5 | 0 | 13 | 3 |
| 2018 Audi A5 | 5 | 24 | 6 |
| 2017 Audi A5 | 0 | 3 | 2 |
| 2016 Audi A5 | 2 | 5 | 3 |
| 2015 Audi A5 | 1 | 8 | 3 |
| 2014 Audi A5 | 5 | 29 | 3 |
| 2013 Audi A5 | 5 | 43 | 3 |
| 2012 Audi A5 | 6 | 29 | 0 |
| 2011 Audi A5 | 14 | 32 | 0 |
| 2010 Audi A5 | 2 | 42 | 0 |
| 2009 Audi A5 | 2 | 17 | 1 |
| 2008 Audi A5 | 1 | 6 | 1 |
What Problems Do Audi A5s Have?
- Excessive oil consumption
- Timing chain issues
- Zero cylinder compression
- Engine blew
- Oil warning light on
- Faulty turbo charger
- Excessive fuel consumption
- Cam belt tensioner failure
- Fuel injector failure
- Drive chain failure
- Valve spring cracked
- Hydraulic timing chain tensioner failed
- Steering sticks
- Broken sun visor
Related: 11 Most Common Audi A5 Problems (Explained)
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Audi A5?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Acura Integra | 8.8 | $31,500 – $36,500 | City: 26 – 30 /Highway: 36 – 37 |
| Audi A4 | 8.7 | $40,300 – $42,400 | City: 24 /Highway: 32 – 33 |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | 8.7 | $44,50 – $90,000 | City: 16 – 25 /Highway: 24 – 36 |
| Audi A5 | 8.6 | $44,600 – $53,900 | City: 24 /Highway: 31 – 33 |
| Genesis G70 | 8.5 | $39,400 – $47,000 | City: 17 – 21 /Highway: 26 – 31 |
| BMW 2-Series | 8.4 | $37,800 – $50,900 | City: 22 – 26 /Highway: 32 – 35 |
| BMW 3-Series | 8.4 | $43,800 – $58,400 | City: 23 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 34 |
| Kia Stinger | 8.4 | $36,690 – $54,090 | City: 17 – 22 /Highway: 24 – 32 |
| Volkswagen Arteon | 8.3 | $43,010 – $50,175 | City: 22 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 33 |
| Audi A3 | 8.1 | $34,900 – $36,900 | City: 27 – 28 /Highway: 35 – 38 |
| Volvo S60 | 8.1 | $41,300 – $50,300 | City: 25 – 26 /Highway: 33 – 35 |
| Volkswagen Golf R | 8.1 | $4,740 – $46,190 | City: 20 – 23 /Highway: 28 – 30 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 8 Best & Worst Audi A3 Years (With Facts & Stats)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/a5-sportback
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/audi/a5
https://www.edmunds.com/audi/a5/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/audi/a5-sportback
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Audi/A5/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/audi/a5/
https://www.cars.com/research/audi-a5/recalls/
