Overview & Reviews

Audi is known for its understated and modern approach to luxury and design. The Audi A5 certainly falls under that description, but infuses a whisper of alluring curves in a shapely form to set it apart from the rest. Inspired by the company's 2003 Nuvolari grand touring concept, the A5 is a slightly less practical but much sexier two-door alternative to mainstream luxury sedans. It boasts a standard fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, a refined interior and plenty of standard or optional luxury features.

It's an overall package that's hard to ignore and as an added bonus, more enthusiastic drivers can enjoy all of these positive attributes along with a significant performance increase in the Audi S5.

Current Audi A5
The Audi A5 coupe and convertible (cabriolet) is mechanically related to the A4. It is powered by a fuel-efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (2.0T) that produces 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is standard, with an eight-speed automatic optional. A key advantage for those who are subject to slippery weather conditions is the A5's all-wheel drive, which is standard on the coupe and optional on the Cabriolet. With a 40/60-percent front-to-rear power split, the Quattro system provides a close approximation of a rear-wheel-drive car's crisp handling dynamics along with the superior grip of all-wheel drive.

Those who value sophisticated design as much as performance will feel right at home in the Audi A5. The curvaceous silhouette, distinctive Audi one-piece grille and shapely tail end team up to create an extraordinarily appealing look. The Cabriolet may not have a retractable hardtop, but its insulated soft top lowers quickly and prevents the car from having an unflatteringly large rump like most hardtop convertibles.

Inside the A5's handsome four-place cabin are first-rate interior materials along with multi-adjustable front seats that offer daylong touring comfort along with ample support during spirited driving. The back offers seating for two, though most folks can expect a fairly tight fit. The coupe's reasonably sized trunk offers 12.2 cubic feet of space, and the rear seat flips down to accommodate even more cargo. The Cabriolet's trunk is reasonably sized for a convertible at 10.2 cubic feet and, unlike with retractable hardtops, that space remains the same top up or down.

In reviews, we found the 2.0T engine to be more than enough to motivate this slinky sport coupe. Dynamically, the A5 is more like a grand touring coupe than a slick-handling sport coupe, with an emphasis placed on ride comfort. Buyers can add the optional sport-tuned suspension to sharpen the handling, though this admittedly comes at the expense of ride quality.

Overall, the Audi A5 is a solid choice even with tough competition such as the BMW 4 Series and Infiniti Q60, as well as the coupe-only Mercedes-Benz C-Class. But anyone desiring a coupe or convertible that provides a pleasing blend of style, performance and all-wheel-drive security would do well to check out the A5.

Used Audi A5 Models
The A5 was introduced for the 2008 model year as a coupe only, with a 3.2-liter V6 as the lone engine choice. The six-speed manual was standard and the six-speed automatic was optional. The following year adaptive cruise control and the Audi Drive Select system debuted. The cabriolet and 2.0T engine were introduced for 2010, as were a revised MMI electronics interface and navigation system.  

For 2011 the V6 was dropped and the six-speed automatic was replaced with an eight-speed unit. A styling refresh took place the following year, when available WiFi capability and a switch from hydraulic to electric power steering assist also took place. Apart from having slightly less power (211 hp versus 220 hp) and a few minor differences in standard equipment, these latter-day A5s are similar to the current version.

User Reviews:

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  Worth every dollar! - 2010 Audi A5
  By David W - March 22 - 10:53 pm

  I have been researching this vehicle for a long time. I have owned many BMWs and a couple of MBs, but this baby is something else. The A5 3.2 has two personalities, one the one hand, its elegant and chic. On the other hand the A5 3.2 is ruthless. When the car is in Sports mode, the car is angry but with confidence. The Quattro AWD adapted from the Lamborghini Gallardo grips the road, as if it is going to tear up the asphalt. The cockpit interior design hugs the driver in preparedness to launch like a skunk work black-ops project. The A5 is a fantastic vehicle. If you can afford it, get it!

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  A5 coupe driveability and performance - 2010 Audi A5
  By Mike D - February 26 - 2:15 pm

  The Audi A5 is a headturner. You must be social to buy this car because you will get stopped at gas stations and traffic lights.I have been driving this car for 2 months and it seems to be the only one in the area. Not many cars balance performance and drivability like the A5. You can drive it like a sports sedan or with the help of manual shifting or sports mode, drive it like a pure sports car.The car is glued to the road and loves to be thrown into corners. Ruts or uneven road are not a problem. Highway driving is smooth as butter. All of this and 26-34 mpg in a very powerful 4 cyl with only 211 HP but an incredible 258 lbs of torque.Very happy with this purchase .

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  3.2 Prestige - Fully Loaded, FTW! - 2010 Audi A5
  By TX_GRAN2R - January 20 - 9:20 pm

  Ive had my car for almost 3 months now. Had been wanting one for almost 24 months prior to purchase. By far, this car is nothing short of first class elegance and sportiness. Lots of stares, thumbs-up, and vehicle inquiries wherever you go. Ordered mine in Quartz Gray with Light Gray interior with Prestige and 19" Sports Package. I checked all of the options boxes with the exception of the adaptive cruise control. Drive Select makes this a totally different vehicle. This car is definitely built for long haul journeys. I live in Texas and have already driven it to SoCal and back just recently with no complaints and nothing but smiles. Gorgeous car that will make any owner proud!

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  Dont underestimate this turbo-4 - 2010 Audi A5
  By VictoR6 - January 12 - 1:02 pm

  Wasnt expecting much out of a 4- cylinder engine but this actually puts out more torque (258 ft-lb) than most 6- cylinder engines in its class. It feels faster than my old V6 and the 0- 60 numbers prove it. All I can say is if you have doubts, test drive the car yourself and you wont be disappointed unless you drive a V8 or something.

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  Lots of Fun - 2010 Audi A5
  By Ozgurk - January 11 - 4:45 pm

  I traded in an A4 Convertible for the A5 Conv. Quatro. This is a great car. I had 6 cyl. before, this is just as powerful. B&O Sound is excellent, very quiet car and just plain fun to drive and no issues so far.

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  A5 Cab - 2010 Audi A5
  By drhippo - January 7 - 10:25 pm

  Just picked up an A5 cab about a month ago--great car! Traded in 08 TT with 6 cy and quattro, so miss that a bit, but this is very elegant. Still very hard to find right color/option packages, and quattro very hard to come by. But, got the pearl blue and cinnamon interior...rare and gorgeous! Wanted the comfort package as well, but alas, couldnt find the right combo that had that as well as Bang & Olufsen stereo....got a terrific deal from our very professional dealer!

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  Just got a 10 - 2010 Audi A5
  By mcscjt - January 2 - 3:16 pm

  Beautiful car inside and out. Many heads turning to catch a glimpse. Love the sport rims and tires. Very sturdy and smooth. V6 has good power and torque. Quiet cabin. Lots of trunk space. Comfortable sport seats.

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  LOVE IT! - 2010 Audi A5
  By Skyrocker - December 18 - 10:59 am

  I have owned this magnificent piece of machinery for over 1 month now and I love every time I get in it. The amazing look the car and the handling is great, it is by far the best car I have ever driven.

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  Do your research before you buy a 2017 Audi A5 Cab - 2017 Audi A5
  By Former Audi Lover - December 14 - 5:58 am

  As a longtime Audi owner, I have been shocked and disappointment in this car. It has been in for service 6 times in 8 months. In addition, there have been 2 recalls. The car drives fine, but has a constant vibraton/buzz from the engine. The car also has difficulty shifting, and can be quite jerky at times. While the car is fun to drive when it is acting properly, it isnt worth the money or the headache.

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  A5 Something to Look at - 2010 Audi A5
  By Nicholas H. - December 7 - 7:18 pm

  I have owned my A5 for approximately 1.5 months. By far, the best car I have ever owned. It seems like everyone has a BMW 3-series or Benz, but there simply are not that many A5s on the road which makes the purchase a little more meaningful. The car is very muscular looking and low to the ground. Even the view from the back is exciting. Cant wait to see how the Quattro handles the Ohio winters. The interior oozes class, get the wood inlays, if you can, as they are quite a sight to behold, much like the car as a whole.