Audi
A5
Lexus
IS
Audi A5 vs Lexus IS: 2025 Comparison
The short answer
The Audi A5 offers fuel economy, while the Lexus IS excels at power instead. Choose the Audi A5 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Lexus IS if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
A5
Overall
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.
Best version to buy
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.
Known issues
- ⚠**B9/B9.5 Generation (2017-2024):** * High maintenance and repair costs out of warranty. Frequency: very frequent. * Known issues with the 2.0T engine (e.g., water pump failure). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**B10 Generation (2025+):** * Severe software and electronic glitches (drive assist failures, phantom alerts, SOS connectivity loss, infotainment crashes). Frequency: very frequent. * Unreliable mobile app and digital key functionality.
IS
Overall
Mixed sentiment heavily dependent on generation and powertrain. The IS is widely recognized for its strong long-term reliability, comfortable ride, and luxury feel, particularly when compared to German competitors. However, significant and recurring criticisms are directed at specific mechanical flaws, outdated powertrains, and poor fuel economy.
Best version to buy
IS 350 with the 2GR-FSE V6 engine is the most frequently recommended version for its superior power and reliability over the IS 250. For the third generation (3IS, 2014+), the 2015-2016 model years with the V6 and 6-speed automatic transmission are specifically highlighted to avoid the later UA80 transmission used in 2017+ models.
Known issues
- ⚠Carbon buildup on intake valves (IS 250 with 4GR-FSE engine): causes loss of power, rough idle, poor fuel economy, requires periodic cleaning. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Water pump and front cover oil leaks (2GR-FSE V6 engine): common failure requiring expensive repair (engine removal for front cover, ~20-25 hours labor). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Severe diesel engine issues (IS220d with 2AD-FHV engine): chronic DPF filter and EGR valve clogging leading to very high fuel consumption, potential for catastrophic engine failure (head gasket, seals) especially with poor maintenance.
The verdict
The Lexus IS is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Audi A5, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lexus IS are a dealbreaker, the Audi A5 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lexus IS than the Audi A5. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi A5 is classed as a Station wagon, the Lexus IS as a Sedan, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?
The Audi A5 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 2.2-7.4 L/100km combined versus 11.8 L/100km for the Lexus IS, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Lexus IS than the Audi A5. See the known issues comparison above.