Photo: Alexander-93 / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Liftback · Gas · 119 versions · owner report
Ranked #11 of 17 luxury compact cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation.
12 problems reported (4 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Phantom alerts, SOS connectivity loss, infotainment crashes).
For the B9/B9.5 generation, the A5 Sportback is the most recommended body style for its blend of coupe-like aesthetics and hatchback practicality. The S-Line trim is strongly advised for its superior interior and sportier suspension. For the powertrain, the 2.0T TFSI engine is noted for being robust with proper maintenance. There is no consensus on a "best" version for the problematic B10 generation.
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 3 Series, BMW 4 Series (including Gran Coupe), BMW 5 Series, Lexus IS and Genesis G70.
Is the A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the B9/B9.5 generation (approximately 2017-2024 models), feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Owners praise these models for being "rock solid," offering a superb driving experience ("drives like it's on rails"), excellent build quality with no squeaks even at high mileage, and strong reliability with proper maintenance. The Sportback body style is frequently highlighted for its unique, desirable looks and exceptional practicality. In contrast, sentiment for the new B10 generation (2025+) is predominantly negative to mixed. New owners report widespread and severe software and electronic issues, a perceived decline in interior material quality and design, and a general sense that the vehicle was rushed to market. The consensus indicates high satisfaction with the previous generation as a reliable, stylish, and engaging premium vehicle, but significant disappointment and buyer's remorse with the current redesign.
Positioned as a stylish and practical alternative to traditional sedans like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, with the Sportback offering more utility. Compared directly to the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, with some owners giving the edge to the Audi for its design and AWD system (quattro). The A5 2.0T is noted as having a favorable power-to-weight ratio compared to a base BMW 530i. Against premium competitors like the Genesis G70, the A5 is often seen as having superior brand cachet and interior finish (in previous generations). The new B10 generation is criticized for failing to compete with rivals, having lost its historic advantages in interior quality, technology, and sportiness to brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Genesis.
Quattro all-wheel drive is recommended for improved traction, especially in winter climates. For B9/B9.5 models, an S-Line trim is recommended for better interior and dynamics. A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty or an extended warranty is strongly advised for used models to mitigate repair costs. For new B10 models, owners recommend ensuring the vehicle has the latest software update (version 3.10 with KD2 update mentioned). Using a wired connection for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is suggested over wireless to avoid connectivity drops. For winter driving, all-weather floor mats and dedicated snow tires are recommended over the stock tires.
For the B9/B9.5 generation: Highly recommended as a used purchase for those seeking a stylish, practical, and engaging premium vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection and verification of complete service history are crucial. Budget for higher maintenance costs compared to mainstream brands, but note that DIY oil changes and basic maintenance are manageable. CPO or an extended warranty provides valuable peace of mind. For the B10 generation: Approach with extreme caution. A thorough and extended test drive is essential to evaluate software stability and personal comfort with the interior. Negotiate aggressively, as dealer inventory and early negative reviews may provide leverage. Verify the manufacturing date and software version. Not recommended for buyers prioritizing trouble-free ownership or cutting-edge, reliable tech.
The owner experience is fundamentally different between the previous (B9/B9.5) and current (B10) generations, necessitating separate analysis. The B9/B9.5 is viewed as a mature, refined product with known maintenance patterns, while the B10 is seen as a rushed launch with pervasive teething problems, primarily software-related. The 2.0T EA888 Gen 3 engine in the B9/B9.5 is generally regarded as reliable if maintained properly, with extensive community knowledge and aftermarket support. The negative sentiment around the B10 is so pronounced that some Audi dealership sales personnel note existing RS5 owners are being matched to the new S5 but are refusing to downgrade, and enthusiasts broadly reject the new model. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning model years 2010 to 2026, with the majority of substantive feedback covering 2017-2025 models.
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): forward collision avoidance (7) · electrical system (5) · structure (4)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners express overwhelmingly negative sentiment toward the 2025-2026 B10 A5, with many reporting severe software and electrical failures immediately after delivery.
19 problems reported (3 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Is a 2025–2026 A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (10) · forward collision avoidance (7) · structure (4)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners express overwhelmingly negative sentiment toward the B10 A5, with many reporting severe software and electrical failures immediately after delivery.
18 problems reported (2 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Unable to shift into gear, and doors unable to open from inside.
Causing hatch to stop auto-lifting, GPS failure, and eventual dead battery.
Unable to open or lock the car.
Is a 2024–2026 A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (100) · unknown or other (60) · back over prevention (32)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally view the F5 A5 as a reliable, enjoyable daily driver when properly maintained, with the EA888 2.0T engine and DSG transmission frequently praised as proven and durable.
15 problems reported (3 recurrent, 12 isolated) · high confidence
Is a 2016–2024 A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (106) · engine (68) · unknown or other (22)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2009-2016 8TA A5 generally enjoy the car’s styling, comfort, and driving experience, calling it a beautiful and fun daily driver.
12 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 6 isolated) · high confidence
A well-known issue requiring engine rebuild or piston ring replacement; covered by a class-action settlement for some model years.
Can cause catastrophic engine damage; tensioner was redesigned around 2013. Monitoring chain stretch via diagnostic tools is recommended.
Plastic components crack and leak; often replaced preventatively alongside the thermostat.
A common failure point on the 2.0T; relatively inexpensive to replace.
Requires walnut blasting every 40,000-75,000 miles to maintain performance.
Front suspension components wear out, causing clunking noises; replacement kits are available.
The fabric headliner can detach from the convertible top frame.
Owners strongly advise avoiding this transmission due to high repair costs and poor reliability.
Plastic coolant pipes and reservoir can crack and leak.
A labor-intensive repair.
Reported on a 2012 cabriolet.
Reported on a 2012 model.
Is a 2009–2016 A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (108) · engine (70) · unknown or other (24)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally view the 8F7 A5 as a stylish, enjoyable car that rewards proper maintenance with high mileage and long-term reliability.
19 problems reported (2 very frequent, 10 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Is a 2008–2017 A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): air bags (108) · engine (70) · unknown or other (24)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally praise the 8T3 A5 as a desirable, good-looking car with strong performance and refinement, especially in 2.0T Quattro form.
12 problems reported · high confidence
Very frequent. Reported across multiple discussions, especially on pre-facelift models; facelift models are said to be improved.
Very frequent. Multiple owners warn of this as a known issue that can destroy the engine if not addressed.
Recurrent. Mentioned as a common failure point, with an extended warranty available from a lawsuit.
Recurrent. Also covered by an extended warranty from a lawsuit.
Recurrent. Described as a common issue by multiple owners.
Recurrent. Noted as a common problem requiring periodic cleaning.
Recurrent. Reported by owners of the front-wheel-drive variant.
Recurrent. Owners advise against this transmission.
Isolated. One owner reported turbo failure at 89k miles; another mentioned a failing turbo making a similar noise.
Isolated. Mentioned as a known failure point.
Isolated. Noted as a minor, inexpensive repair.
Isolated. One owner reported this as a possible issue.
Is a 2007–2017 A5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Audi A5 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 9 | 0 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2025 | 9 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 8 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 7 | 2 | tires |
| 2021 | 24 | 5 | unknown or other |
| 2020 | 120 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 24 | 3 | vehicle speed control |
| 2018 | 9 | 6 | power train |
| 2017 | 2 | 2 | engine |
| 2016 | 7 | 3 | engine |
| 2015 | 9 | 3 | unknown or other |
| 2014 | 29 | 3 | engine |
| 2013 | 38 | 3 | engine |
| 2012 | 36 | 2 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
2025 · seat belts:front:retractorcampaign 25V638000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025 GTI, Golf R, Audi A5, A6 Sportback E-Tron, S5, S6 Sportback E-Tron, 2026 Q4 Sportback E-Tron, and Q4 E-Tron vehicles. The torsion bar in one or both front seat belt retractors may have been damaged during production.
2025 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 25V899000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2025 SQ6 E-Tron, SQ6 Sportback E-Tron, Q6 Sportback E-Tron, A6, A5, A6 Sportback E-Tron, Q6 E-Tron, S5, and S6 Sportback E-Tron vehicles. The automatic locking retractor may fail to engage when a child seat is installed using the seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
2022 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 21V825000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8 and S8, 2022 Audi A5 Sportback, A4 Sedan, E-Tron GT, Q3, Q5, RS6 Avant, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RSQ8, SQ7, SQ8, and S3 Sedan vehicles. A software error may prevent the rear-view image from initially displaying when the vehicle begins to reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · equipment:electrical:infotainment:video (touch)screen/monitor/unitcampaign 22V806000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AUDI A8, A6 Allroad, E-TRON Quattro, 2022 S3, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 Avant, Q8, Q7, Q3, E-TRON Sportback Quattro, S5 Cabriolet, E-TRON GT, S5 Sportback, A7, A6, A5 Sportback, A5 Cabriolet, A4, A4 Allroad, A3, S8, SQ7, SQ8, S6, and S4 vehicles. The infotainment main unit may become damaged internally when the vehicle is shut off, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera display the next time the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V606000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2021 · exterior lighting:tail lightscampaign 20V737000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2020-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The wiring harness for the rear lights could be missing the anti-abrasion protection in the area of the spare wheel well.
2021 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 22V742000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2020 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2020 · exterior lighting:tail lightscampaign 20V737000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2020-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The wiring harness for the rear lights could be missing the anti-abrasion protection in the area of the spare wheel well.
2020 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2020 · seatscampaign 21V874000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2017-2020 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, 2018-2019 RS5 Coupe, 2019 RS5 Sportback, 2018-2020 A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, and Audi S5 Sportback vehicles. The cable connecting the seat heater to the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a contact fault, causing the software to misdiagnose a malfunction and disable the passenger air bag.
2019 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2019 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
29 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Enthusiast code: B10
2.0 TFSI
2.0L 4-cylinder · 204 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2025–2026