Name: Audi A5 Coupé (2016 – present) | Expert Rating | The Car Expert
Item: Audi A5 coupé
Rating: 56.0

Table of contents – Audi A5 Coupé

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Summary

The Audi A5 was – more or less – a sleeker and more attractive coupé version of the Audi A4 saloon. This model is the second generation, which was launched at the end of 2016, received a mild update in 2019 and ended its production life in early 2024.

Declining sales of coupé and convertible models mean that this model will not be replaced. However, there will be a new Audi A5 – according to the company’s new naming structure, the next-generation A5 will replace the previous Audi A4 range, so the next A5s will be saloons and estates rather than coupés, convertibles and liftbacks.

This A5 range consisted of the A5 Coupé shown here, as well as the A5 Cabriolet and A5 Sportback, which was a five-door liftback. The higher-performance S5 Coupé is included here, but the even-faster RS 5 Coupé was a substantially different vehicle so has its own page.

The consensus from reviewers was that the Audi A5 was more of a comfortable grand tourer and less of a sporting vehicle than the rival BMW 4 Series. As with most Audis, the interior was a comfortable and high-quality environment from which to pilot the vehicle, but the driving experience was rather uneventful.

As of September 2024, the A5 has a Used Car Expert Rating score of D, with a score of just 56%. It gets good grades for decent CO₂ emissions, but its reliability record is poor and its running costs are high.

More Audi Expert Ratings, new car reviews, news and features

Audi A5 highlights

High-quality cabin
Understated style, if you want to be subtle
All-wheel-drive versions provide plenty of grip
Very comfortable and ergonomic driving position

Audi A5 lowlights

Driving experience can’t match the BMW 4 Series
S line suspension and/or big wheels make ride harsh
Lacks any real emotional punch
Questionable reliability

Key specifications

Body style: 2+2 coupé
Engines: petrol, diesel
Price when new: From £40,720 on-road

Launched: Winter 2016/17
Last updated: Autumn 2019
Production ended: Spring 2024

Image gallery

Media reviews

Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert+

Score: 8.2 / 10
“The second generation of the A5 builds on the success of the first model, evolved in all areas without losing the original appeal.”
Read review

Auto Express+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 8 / 10
“While it’s a handsome and desirable machine, it’s not one of the most thrilling to drive. Combine that with the less than dramatic design, and the Audi A5 Coupé faces stiff competition.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic 40 TFSI S line
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A5 oozes premium appeal and is packed with tech. It’s surefooted and composed on the road, too, but this isn’t a two-door coupé that has driver appeal at its core; it’s not all that exciting to drive, and the large wheels on this S line model have a negative impact on comfort on British roads.”
Read review

Auto Trader+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A5 coupe certainly looks the business, but it’s far more than just a pretty face. A spacious, stylish and beautifully built interior is augmented by reassuring handling, excellent refinement and impressive comfort.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic S5 Coupé
“The Audi S5 is a beautifully built luxury coupe that looks understated, offers lots of hi-tech equipment and practicality, and provides strong pace in easy-going comfort.”
Read review

Autocar+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic 40 TFSI
Score: 7 / 10
“At a time when Mercedes-Benz and BMW are taking a more ‘emotional’ approach, Audi continues to mix refined cool with premium technology. It’s a strong combination that will understandably appeal to many, although those who put their focus on driving engagement will want to look elsewhere.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic S5 coupé
Score: 7 / 10
“The story, familiar as it is where Audi’s S-badged cars are concerned, is that the S5 is car whose abilities we’re left regarding with a lot of admiration and respect but little lasting affection.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre (218hp) diesel automatic S line quattro
Score: 8 / 10
“Lower-powered V6 diesel Audi A5 proves the likely pick of the range, with the pace, refinement and grip to suit UK driving.”
Read review

Car+

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic S5 Coupé
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi S5 is certainly fast enough and under the right conditions can deliver some laughs but, on the whole, it delivers a very usable and easy-to-access experience rather than an adrenaline-charged one.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic S line
Score: 8 / 10
“The new Audi A5 doesn’t quite look or drive like a full-blooded coupe, but many will find its reassuring manners appealing, and feel its array of gadgetry will help present themselves to others as thoroughly modern without being nerdy or unchic.”
Read review

Car Keys+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic S line Coupé
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A5 is a very competent premium coupe that builds upon the main characteristics of its predecessor. If you feel Audis such as this one lack a fun factor and find offerings from BMW and Mercedes more compelling, this latest A5 is unlikely to change your mind.”
Read review

Model reviewed: 3.0-litre petrol automatic S5 Coupé
Score: 9 / 10
“The Audi S5 is better than ever before and makes a strong case as a coupe that can deliver both classy, luxury transport and more aggressive, sporty driving. The powertrain is a delight, the cabin is very luxurious and the car has no trouble acting in a civilised manner when the situation suits.”
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Carbuyer+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A5 Coupe is sleek, stylish and luxurious, but its driving dynamics are likely to leave the enthusiast a little cold.”
Read review

Model reviewed: S5 coupé
Score: 7.6 / 10
“The Audi S5 Coupe may lack the steering feel favoured by keen drivers, but it’s a deeply impressive car nonetheless.”
Read review

Carwow+

Model reviewed: S5 coupé
Score: 7 / 10
“High-performance version of the elegant and classy A5 coupe is very quick and sure-footed, but not particularly engaging to drive.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A5 is a stylish premium coupe that feels very well made and comes with a good selection of engines. Some alternatives look more exciting inside, though.”
Read review

Heycar+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 8 / 10
“The Audi A5 is a bit like being a contestant on Bear Grylls’ survival TV show The Island – like being trapped on a tropical paradise for weeks on end, the Audi looks like a lot of fun but is actually pretty boring.”
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Honest John+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 10 / 10
“What the Audi A5 does so well is get the key elements right. The driving position is spot on, all the buttons and switches are wonderfully tactile and there’s high-quality leather on all the key points you come into contact with.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic
“The BMW 4 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé are mightily good but for those who demand the best refinement and quality, the Audi A5 is hard to beat.
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Motoring Research+

Model reviewed: Range overview (coupé, cabriolet, Sportback)
Score: 8 / 10
“If you’re prepared to sacrifice a little practicality in return for improved styling – and a higher price – the Audi A5 is one of the best looking cars in its class.”
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Parkers+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 8.8 / 10
“Stylish, sought-after two-door is bristling with feelgood factor.”
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The Sunday Times+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol automatic S line
Score: 6 / 10
“Style to spare but where’s the excitement?”
Read review

The Telegraph+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 7 / 10
“The Audi A5 is a very desirable car, but given its sleek styling and powerful engines we can’t help but wish it was slightly more fun to drive. And while the interior is classy, you have to spend a lot on optional extras to get the best from it.”
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Top Gear+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 7 / 10
“Superb design and refinement cloak a nondescript driving experience. Again.”
Read review

What Car?+

Model reviewed: Coupé range
Score: 8 / 10
“Choose carefully and you’ll be getting a comfortable and quiet coupe with a very classy interior. True, the Audi A5 Coupé could be a little more exciting to drive, but it’s still an incredibly rounded car – especially if you opt for the 40 TFSI petrol in entry-level Sport trim.”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: November 2016
Date expired: January 2022
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 89%
Child protection: 87%
Vulnerable road users: 75%
Safety assist: 75%

Notes on safety rating

The Audi A5 was originally assessed by Euro NCAP back in 2016 and awarded a five-star rating. The Audi A5 Coupé and A5 Sportback share their safety rating with the Audi A4 range. The A5 Cabriolet does not have a safety rating as a result of the significant differences in its structure.

However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used A5 Coupé to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

The Audi A5 coupé was not tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 485
Average repair cost: £950.90
Last updated: January 2024

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Audi A5 family has a below reliability score of 40%, according to workshop data provided by our commercial partner, MotorEasy. This applies to all versions of the Audi A5 (cabriolet, coupé, Sportback) and to both generations (2007–2016 and 2017 onwards).

The big thing to look for is suspension trouble. As the MotorEasy data above shows, this is the most common issue found on Audi A5 models, usually costing around £500 to correct. Engine issues are almost as common and a lot more expensive, with the average repair cost clocking in at more than £1,200.

Gearbox problems have also been known to crop up and are by far the most expensive faults, costing around the £3,000 mark. Bear all of this in mind if you’re looking at a used Audi A5.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumption	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	43 mpg	C	35 – 53 mpg	B – D
Diesel models	51 mpg	B	39 – 59 mpg	A – D

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	156 g/km	B	140 – 184 g/km	B – C
Diesel models	147 g/km	B	125 – 188 g/km	A – C

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	36	C	26 – 47	B – D

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£283	C
Year 2	£743	C
Year 3	£1,235	C
Year 4	£1,513	C
Year 5	£2,041	C
Overall	£5,815	C

The Audi A5 Coupé has fairly average running costs, according to data exclusively provided by our commercial partner Clear Vehicle Data.

Petrol models offer 43 mpg on average, making the coupé more efficient than petrol versions of the A5 Cabriolet and four-door A5 Sportback. As you might expect, diesel models are the more fuel efficient choice. Insurance premiums and maintenance costs are pretty average when compared with its coupé rivals.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the Audi A5 range

Feb 2022

Jun 2021

Oct 2020

Jun 2020

Jun 2019

May 2019

Dec 2018

Feb 2017

Date: February 2022
Recall number: R/2022/036
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2019 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 5,327
Defect: Following a previous campaign, the toe and/or camber values on the rear axle may, in certain circumstances, incorrectly be changed without this being noticed.
Remedy: The wheel alignment must be checked and, if necessary, the suspension must be serviced on the affected vehicles.

Date: June 2021
Recall number: R/2021/236
Model types: All
Build dates: 11/2019 to 02/2021
Number of vehicles affected: 10,089
Defect: One or more nuts which do not meet the specifications may have been fitted on the rear axle suspension links.
Remedy: The affected nuts on the rear axle will be replaced on affected vehicles.

Date: June 2021
Recall number: R/2021/204
Model types: All
Build dates: 12/2015 to 12/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 263
Defect: Vehicles may have been fitted with a hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
Remedy: The hinge module for the towing bracket must be checked and, where necessary, replaced on the vehicles affected.

Date: October 2020
Recall number: R/2020/302
Model types: All
Build dates: 07/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 8
Defect: The seat frame may not have been bolted correctly to the seat rail on the driver and/or front passenger side.
Remedy: Check the affected seat frame connection and replace the frame if required.

Date: June 2020
Recall number: R/2020/138
Model types: All
Build dates: 06/2017 to 03/2020
Number of vehicles affected: 34,982
Defect: It is possible that moisture may enter the belt-driven starter-alternator.
Remedy: The starter-alternator must be replaced on the affected vehicles.

Date: June 2019
Recall number: R/2019/175
Model types: All
Build dates: 12/2015 to 12/2018
Number of vehicles affected: 135
Defect: Hinged towing bracket on which the locking mechanism in the hinge module could be faulty.
Remedy: The hinge module for the towing bracket must be checked and replaced if required.

Date: May 2019
Recall number: R/2019/149
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2019 to 03/2019
Number of vehicles affected: 85
Defect: An error in the casting process may affect the rigidity of the shock absorber fork.
Remedy: The corresponding shock absorber forks must be replaced on the affected vehicles.

Date: December 2018
Recall number: R/2018/365
Model types: All
Build dates: 02/2017 to 07/2017
Number of vehicles affected: 8
Defect: Airbag securing bolts may not be to the correct torque.
Remedy: Check and replace bolts as required.

Date: February 2017
Recall number: R/2017/078
Model types: All
Build dates: 05/2016 to 10/2016
Number of vehicles affected: 2,622
Defect: Due to an error in the manufacturing process, the airbag and/or seat belt pretensioner may not trigger in the event of a collision.
Remedy: On affected vehicles, replace airbag assembly and seat belt pretensioner where necessary.

As of September 2024, there have been nine DVSA vehicle safety recalls on the Audi A5 range covering various different issues.

Not all vehicles are affected by recalls. You can check to see if your car is included in any of the above recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local Audi dealer.

If your car is affected by a recall, the vehicle must be repaired and you should not be charged for any work required. If you are buying a used A5, you should insist that any outstanding recall work is completed before you take delivery of the vehicle.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the Audi A5 has received

2020

DieselCar & EcoCar Top 50 – Best Coupé

2019

What Car? Awards – Best Coupé
DieselCar & EcoCar Top 50 – Best Coupé

2018

What Car? Awards – Best Coupé, £30K – £50K
DieselCar & EcoCar Top 50 – Best Coupé

Similar cars

If you’re looking at the Audi A5, you might also be interested in these alternatives

BMW 4 Series | Ford Mustang | Lexus RC | Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé

The junior executive coupé market has never been that heavily populated. The big three German rivals all maintain a presence, but no-one else has really shown much interest for a while. Lexus joined in for a while with the RC but that is no longer available, while Infiniti had its Q60 coupé a few years ago when the brand was still selling cars in Europe. The Ford Mustang is a similar size but appeals to a rather different demographic, and that’s basically your lot.