Audi
S5
Owner report available
Kia
Stinger
Owner report available
Audi S5 vs Kia Stinger
The short answer
Based on available data, the Kia Stinger comes out ahead of the Audi S5 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
S5
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. The B8.5 (supercharged V6) and B9/B9.5 (turbocharged V6) generations receive generally positive feedback from long-term owners, who praise the driving experience, comfort, and timeless styling. However, these generations are associated with several known, potentially expensive mechanical issues.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. For the B9/B9.5 generation (2018-2024), the Sportback body style is frequently mentioned for its superior practicality.
Known issues
- **B10 Generation (2025+):** Persistent check engine lights with numerous fault codes, leading to repeated dealership visits and extended downtime. Frequency: very frequent.
- **B9/B9.5 Generation (2018-2024) with 3.0T Engine:** Water pump failure, often leading to coolant migration. Frequency: very frequent. PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure. Frequency: very frequent.
- **B8.5 Generation (2013-2016) with Supercharged V6:** Water pump failure. Frequency: recurrent. Wheel bearing failures. Frequency: isolated.
Stinger
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, with a clear distinction between engine variants. The 3.3L twin-turbo V6 (TT) models are widely praised for their strong acceleration, smooth power delivery, and compelling value proposition as a sporty, practical liftback. Owners report high satisfaction with the car's unique styling, engaging driving dynamics, and spacious, feature-rich interior.
Best version to buy
3.3L Twin-Turbo V6 GT models (GT, GT1, GT2). The V6 engine is consistently highlighted as transformative, providing the power and responsiveness that defines the car's sporty character.
Known issues
- Poor rear visibility: very small rear window, thick C-pillars creating significant blind spots. Frequency: very frequent.
- Transmission behavior in manual/sequential mode: slow to respond to manual shift inputs, computer forces upshifts, downshifts take too long. Frequency: recurrent.
- Turbo lag (2.0L/2.5L 4-cylinder models): significant delay in power delivery, sluggish acceleration from a stop. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Kia Stinger is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Audi S5, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Audi S5 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
Other comparisons
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi S5 or the Kia Stinger?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi S5 and the Kia Stinger. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi S5 or the Kia Stinger?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi S5 is classed as a Station wagon, the Kia Stinger as a Liftback, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi S5 or the Kia Stinger?
The EPA rates the 2027 Audi S5 at 23 mpg combined and the 2023 Kia Stinger at 20–25 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi S5 or the Kia Stinger?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi S5 than the Kia Stinger. See the known issues comparison above.