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About the Audi A5
AI-generatedThe Audi A5 is a premium four-seat coupé that combines elegant styling with Audi's renowned build quality and technology. Launched in 2007, the A5 offers a sleek alternative to the A4 saloon, available as a two-door coupé, five-door Sportback, and convertible Cabriolet. With its distinctive sloping roofline, aggressive front grille, and muscular haunches, the A5 delivers sophisticated road presence alongside practical everyday usability. Under the bonnet, the A5 range features efficient four-cylinder petrols and diesels, plus performance-oriented V6 options and the high-performance S5 and RS5 variants. Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system is available across the range, providing excellent grip and handling in all conditions. The interior showcases Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard on newer models, premium materials, and advanced driver assistance systems. While rear seat space is somewhat compromised by the swooping roofline, boot capacity remains respectable at 465 litres in the Sportback, making the A5 a practical choice for those wanting style without sacrificing too much functionality.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation (8T)
2007-2016
- 2.0 TDI timing belt and water pump failures if service intervals missed
- Oil consumption issues on early 2.0 TFSI engines, particularly 2008-2012 models
- DSG gearbox mechatronic unit failures causing jerky shifts or loss of drive
- EGR valve and DPF problems on diesel models causing limp mode
- Premature wear of suspension bushes and control arm bushings
- MMI infotainment system freezing or screen failures
- Condensation in LED headlight units requiring complete replacement
Second Generation (F5)
2016-present
- AdBlue system faults causing engine warning lights and reduced power
- Virtual Cockpit screen failures or pixel issues under warranty
- Automatic gearbox software issues causing hesitant shifts (usually resolved by updates)
- Parking sensor malfunctions and false warnings
- Panoramic sunroof rattles and wind noise
- Premature brake disc wear on some models
- Mild hybrid system battery warnings on newer 2019+ models
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,800-£2,400
Insurance Group
26-40
Average Service
£350-£550
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£28,000 - £38,000
£22,000 - £30,000
£18,000 - £25,000
£10,000 - £15,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stunning, timeless exterior design that ages gracefully
- High-quality interior with excellent build quality and premium materials
- Quattro all-wheel-drive provides exceptional grip and handling
- Wide range of efficient and powerful engine options
- Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard is intuitive and highly configurable
- Sportback variant offers excellent practicality for a coupé
- Strong residual values compared to rivals
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - Benefits from facelift improvements, updated engines with mild-hybrid technology, latest MMI infotainment, and resolved earlier reliability issues whilst avoiding first-year teething problems of new models
- 2017 - First full year of second-generation production with proven MLB Evo platform, excellent build quality, and competitive pricing on the used market with most major issues ironed out
- 2015 - Final year of first-generation with all updates and improvements implemented, making it the most refined version of the original design and excellent value today
Worst Years
- 2008 - Early 2.0 TFSI engines prone to excessive oil consumption, first-year production issues, and older MMI system now feels very dated with expensive update costs
- 2011 - Peak period for DSG mechatronic failures and DPF issues on diesel models, combined with timing belt problems on 2.0 TDI variants if service history incomplete
- 2016
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check oil level - should be between min and max marks, excessive consumption indicates engine wear
- Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start (petrol models) or unusual knocking
- Inspect service history for timing belt changes on diesel models - critical at 4-5 year intervals
- Check for white smoke from exhaust on diesels indicating turbo or DPF issues
- Verify AdBlue system works correctly with no warning lights on diesel models
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Audi A5 was designed by Walter de Silva and is considered one of his finest works, with the original design remaining largely unchanged for nine years due to its timeless appeal.
The RS5's naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 engine shares components with the Lamborghini Gallardo and produces one of the best exhaust notes in the business.
Audi's Virtual Cockpit, which debuted on the second-generation A5, allows drivers to display Google Maps navigation directly in the instrument cluster.
The A5 Sportback's rear doors are frameless like the front doors, maintaining the coupé's sleek silhouette whilst adding practicality.
Alternatives to Consider
BMW 4 Series
7/10Direct rival with sharper handling dynamics, excellent engine range, and similar premium appeal though slightly less refined interior
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé
More luxurious interior, smoother ride quality, and elegant styling though not as engaging to drive as the A5
Volkswagen Arteon
Shares platform with A5 Sportback offering similar technology and quality at lower cost, though less prestigious badge
Alfa Romeo Giulia
More engaging driving experience with Italian flair and competitive pricing, though reliability concerns and smaller dealer network
Lexus IS
Superior reliability and lower running costs with strong hybrid options, though less modern interior technology and smaller boot
Owner Tips
- 1Always use official Audi service history or reputable specialists - timing belt changes are critical on diesel models every 4-5 years regardless of mileage
- 2Check for software updates at servicing, especially for gearbox and AdBlue systems which can prevent future issues
- 3On diesel models, regularly drive on motorways to help regenerate the DPF and prevent expensive blockages
- 4Inspect service records for DSG gearbox oil changes on older models - should be done every 38,000 miles despite Audi initially claiming 'lifetime' fluid
- 5Budget for premium tyres - the A5 handles best with quality rubber and Quattro models wear tyres faster if alignment isn't checked regularly
- 6Extended warranties are worth considering given potential costs of repairs, especially for electronics and gearbox components
- 7Use quality engine oil meeting VW 504/507 specification on diesels to prevent DPF damage and extend service intervals
- 8
Check a specific Audi A5
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