Audi A4 vs. Audi A5: which is better?
The Audi A5 and Audi A4 are two of the German manufacturer’s brilliant models – but which one should you pick? We discuss in our comparison review
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Audi cars are a good choice no matter which model you pick, but the A5 and A6 models are particularly sharp.
Both boasting luxury styling, impressive driving, and real practicality, which should you pick?
Find the highlights of each model in our A5 vs A4 review.
Styling
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What's the difference between the Audi A4 and A5? They're both stylish-looking cars that are similarly sized, no matter which model you choose.
The Audi A4 Saloon is a five-seat, four-door model that’s a great balance of sleek and menacing. The chunky chrome grille at the front offsets the otherwise chilled-out feel of the car.
You can also choose the Audi A4 Avant model for an estate option, or the A4 Allroad for an SUV.
In the Audi A5, you get the choice of coupé and convertible body styles, plus the Sportback option. If you opt for one of the coupé variants, you’ll secure an eye-catching model that really turns up the luxury.
Picking the A5 Sportback will mean you get coupé elements mixed with some hatchback styling. They’re roomy, comfortable and have a sportier feel than the glamorous saloon and coupé options.
What are they like to drive?
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When it comes to the A5 vs. the A4 for engines, it's a level playing field. Engines are the same for each model – with a choice of both petrol and diesel, with manual and automatic transmission.
For motorway driving, choosing the 40 TDI diesel model might be the way to go. You’ll get 190hp and up to 60mpg, making light work of long journeys.
Petrol offerings include the 40 TFSI option that feels in its element nipping around town. It’s agile with comfortable steering and offers 190hp, so doesn’t feel sluggish.
Both models are easy to drive, with a quiet and relaxed cabin. They feel stable and secure, and you can even add more to your experience with trim levels like the S line, which adds sportier suspension.
Interior and technology
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Audi A4 models get a 10-inch touchscreen as standard that offers built-in sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A5 and A5 Sportback models get an infotainment setup too, just with a smaller seven-inch screen. You’ll need to upgrade to Vorsprung trim levels for anything bigger, but the standard screen is more than enough for most users.
You’ll have to upgrade to the Vorsprung A5 to get the Virtual Cockpit, while A4 models get this as standard. It’s a brilliant feature behind the wheel that really glams up your vehicle stats.
Each car gets a stylish interior with a luxury feel. Everything feels well-built and there for a purpose, not just to look good (although that helps).
It’s comfortable and easy to navigate the features too, especially if you choose the A5 models with rotary controller for the infotainment.
Bootspace and practicality
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Size is where the difference between the Audi A4 and A5 might show the most. The three-door design of the A5 Coupé might not be best for you if you know you’ll be in and out of the backseats a lot. If you’re travelling with little ones, the A4 options might be better.
That doesn't mean the A5 won't be practical for some motorists. The Sportback offers 465 litres, while the Coupé offers 450 litres.
Both models get ISOFIX car seat points, and the cabin space is spacious and comfortable in all options.
The A4 Saloon has a 480-litre boot on offer too, with 495 litres in the Allroad and Avant.
Consider how many seats you’ll need too – the A4 Sportback offers five, while the Coupé has four. In the A4 saloon model, you’ll get five seats.
Read our in-depth car reviews:
Safety and reliability
The Audi A4 and A5 models were both awarded a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2015, with 89% ratings for adult occupants and 87% for children.
Both are noted as reliable cars, too – results from consumer reliability surveys are positive, as well as driver reviews.
Some motorists have doubted Audi’s reputation for reliability, but in recent years they’ve been improving.
As with all premium brands, repairing an Audi can be more expensive. This is because you're investing in high-quality parts that are built to last, meaning you'll likely have less repairs to make across ownership.
Both the Audi A4 and A5 line-up are considered safe models that can be depended on. They’re praised for their build quality and luxury feel.
Dimensions:
Audi A4 Saloon
Length: 4762mm
Width: 2022mm
Height: 1428mm
Boot space: 480-litres
Audi A5 Coupé
Length: 4697mm
Width: 2029mm
Height: 1371mm
Boot space: 450-litres
Verdict: Audi A4 vs. Audi A5: which should you buy?
The Audi A4 and A5 are both impressive cars with a bucketload of options to choose from. There will be a model to suit just about anyone, whether you want a sleek saloon, high-riding SUV, or even a glamorous convertible.
Both models are similar, with the same engines and very similar interiors. The verdict will rest on what you need for daily life.
If you need something practical, going for the A4 Avant or Allroad is a good choice. If that choice is too obvious for you, the A5 is still very useable.
In fact, the A5 Sportback is a great middle-ground if you’re not ready for purely practical driving yet. It’s got a sporty, menacing feel and is enjoyable to drive.
yYou might also want to check out the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, or the Kia Stinger, for some worthy rivals.