Audi
A7
Tesla
Model S
Audi A7 vs Tesla Model S: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Tesla Model S comes out ahead of the Audi A7 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
A7
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding the driving experience, design, and long-term reliability of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine (3.0T) and 3.0-liter TDI diesel powertrains. The A7 is consistently praised for its gorgeous, timeless design, exceptional comfort, refined handling with Quattro all-wheel drive, and practical hatchback body style. Owner feedback indicates high satisfaction with the vehicle's performance as a daily driver and long-distance cruiser, with specific acclaim for its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and high-quality interior build.
Best version to buy
The 2016-2018 model years with the 3.0T supercharged V6 gasoline engine (CREC version, 333 hp) are most frequently recommended. This iteration is noted for having design revisions that address earlier potential issues like carbon buildup (via dual port and direct injection) and updated chain tensioners.
Known issues
- ⚠Higher maintenance and repair costs compared to mainstream brands. Labor and part costs at dealerships are noted as expensive. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Water pump and PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure. Common replacement items typically needed between 60,000-100,000 miles (97,000-161,000 km). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Emissions system complexity (TDI models). The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, EGR, and associated sensors are potential failure points with high replacement costs, especially beyond 100,000 miles…
Model S
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and varies significantly by vehicle generation. Long-term owners of older models (specifically pre-2021, with mentions of a 2015 model) report severe dissatisfaction with long-term reliability and ownership costs, describing the vehicle as poorly designed for longevity with frequent, expensive failures. In contrast, discussions of newer models (post-2021) are more focused on competitive positioning, with feedback indicating they are perceived as technologically capable but lagging in interior luxury, build quality, and overall refinement compared to newer premium electric vehicles.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim (e.g., Long Range vs. Plaid) as the "best" among community discussions.
Known issues
- ⚠Poor long-term reliability (older models): Multiple expensive failures per year out of warranty, including door handles, trunk latches, 12V battery systems, infotainment screens, and suspension components (control arms).
- ⚠Full Self-Driving (FSD) / Autopilot system flaws: Phantom braking, unreliable object detection due to cameras-only sensor suite, hard braking for shadows, erratic lane changes, and general inability to be trusted without constant supervisi…
- ⚠Subpar build quality and interior materials: Described as "low build quality," lacking the refinement, comfort, and quietness expected in the luxury segment.
The verdict
The Audi A7 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Tesla Model S, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Audi A7 are a dealbreaker, the Tesla Model S is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A7 or the Tesla Model S?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Audi A7 than the Tesla Model S. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Audi A7 or the Tesla Model S?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A7 or the Tesla Model S?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A7 or the Tesla Model S?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Tesla Model S than the Audi A7. See the known issues comparison above.