Audi
A5
Owner report available
Volkswagen
Arteon
Owner report available
Audi A5 vs Volkswagen Arteon
The short answer
Based on available data, the Volkswagen Arteon comes out ahead of the Audi A5 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. 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.
Arteon
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, with a clear generational divide. The pre-facelift models (roughly 2019-2021) are praised for their high feature content, including ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, and rear climate controls, but are criticized for a less powerful engine and older transmission. The refreshed models (2022-2023) receive strong praise for the upgraded EA888 Evo4 engine and 7-speed DSG transmission, offering significantly improved performance (0-60 mph/0-97 km/h in approximately 5.0 seconds) and a more engaging, sporty driving character derived from the Golf R.
Best version to buy
2022-2023 SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion: This configuration combines the powerful EA888 Evo4 engine and 7-speed DSG transmission with the highest level of equipment. The 2021 model year is also noted as a "sweet spot" for maximizing feature content (ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, rear climate) before some features were reportedly deleted in later years, albeit with the older powertrain.
Known issues
- Infotainment system glitches and software bugs: includes screen freezes, reboots, and unresponsive touch controls, associated with the MIB3 platform. Frequency: recurrent.
- Unresponsive transmission/throttle in "Drive" mode: described as sluggish, laggy, and "trash" in normal driving mode, requiring use of "Sport" mode for acceptable responsiveness. Frequency: recurrent.
- Long-term reliability and resale value concerns: general apprehension about complex turbocharged, direct-injection engine and DSG transmission longevity beyond warranty, coupled with poor depreciation in some markets (e.g., Malaysia).
The verdict
The Volkswagen Arteon 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 Volkswagen Arteon are a dealbreaker, the Audi A5 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A5 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Volkswagen Arteon 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 Volkswagen Arteon?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi A5 is classed as a Liftback, the Volkswagen Arteon as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A5 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
The EPA rates the 2027 Audi A5 at 26 mpg combined and the 2024 Volkswagen Arteon at 25 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A5 or the Volkswagen Arteon?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.