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Used Audi A5: Buyer's Guide


The Audi A5 asserts itself as the definitive all-rounder in the premium coupe class, designed for drivers who demand style without sacrificing substance. From the moment you settle into the sculpted seats, the high-quality materials and hushed cabin create a sense of serenity and sophisticated comfort. With fuel economy reaching up to 44 mpg, it represents a smart, calculated investment.


Used Audi A5 Popular Trims

  • Sport: The entry-level choice, offering 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and smartphone interface as standard.

  • S line: The most popular choice, blending style and substance with 18-inch alloys, sport suspension, and S line styling.

  • Black Edition: A bold statement with 20-inch alloys, black styling pack, and privacy glass for enhanced road presence.

  • Vorsprung: The pinnacle of luxury, featuring adaptive suspension, matrix LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof.


Used Audi A5 Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options

  • 35 TFSI (2.0 Petrol): A 150hp unit offering a balance of performance and economy, ideal for urban and mixed driving.

  • 40 TFSI (2.0 Petrol): The sweet spot with 204hp, delivering strong acceleration and reasonable running costs.

  • 35 TDI (2.0 Diesel): The long-distance champion, capable of excellent mpg figures on motorway runs without disturbing the peace inside.

  • 40 TDI (2.0 Diesel): The powerhouse diesel, often paired with quattro for all-weather dominance and effortless overtaking punch.

Running Costs:

  • Real-World MPG: Expect between 33 and 44 mpg depending on the engine and driving conditions.

  • Road Tax: Standard annual VED is £195, though cars over £40,000 list price incur a surcharge.


Used Audi A5 Practicality

The A5 is designed to accommodate daily life with surprising ease, offering practical solutions for every day.

  • Boot Space (Coupe): Offers a respectable 465 litres of space for luggage, perfect for weekend getaways.

  • Boot Space (Sportback): Increases capacity to 480 litres, expanding to 1,300 litres with seats folded and a powered tailgate for easy loading.

  • Legroom: The Sportback offers generous rear legroom, making it a viable family car.


Used Audi A5 Key Features

Standard equipment is generous, but key options can add significant value and enhance your daily drive.

  • Smartphone Interface: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, keeping you connected on the move.

  • Cruise Control: Makes long motorway journeys effortless and relaxed.

  • Pre-Sense City: Autonomous braking system for urban safety and peace of mind.

  • Virtual Cockpit: A stunning 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that transforms the driving environment.

  • Comfort and Sound Pack: Adds keyless entry, Bang & Olufsen sound, and a reversing camera for a premium touch.


Used Audi A5 Reliability Rating

The A5 is built to last, but a thorough inspection is always recommended to ensure you find a top-quality example.

  • Transmission: Ensure the S tronic automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and without hesitation during your test drive.

  • Infotainment: Swipe through the menus to ensure the touchscreen is responsive and free from pixel errors.

  • Suspension: Listen for any knocking sounds over bumps which could indicate worn bushes.


Used Audi A5 Safety Rating

Safety is paramount in the A5, backed by rigorous testing and advanced technology.

  • Euro NCAP: Awarded a full 5-star rating in 2016 (re-tested 2024) for complete peace of mind.

  • Key Tech: Includes multi-collision brake assist and pop-up bonnet for pedestrian protection.


Awards for the Used Audi A5

  • What Car? Awards: Coupe of the Year (multiple wins).

  • Parkers Awards: Recognised for its blend of tech and comfort.

  • Fleet News Awards: Recognised for its appeal to business drivers and fleet managers.


Who is the Used Audi A5 Best For?

  • High-Mileage Drivers: The efficient diesel engines and comfortable ride make it perfect for motorway commuting.

  • Style-Conscious Professionals: The sleek design projects a professional image.

  • Small Families: The Sportback model offers the practicality needed for daily duties.

Key Alternatives to Consider:

  • BMW 4 Series: Offers a sharper driving experience for enthusiasts.

  • Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe: Focuses more on traditional luxury and comfort.


Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Audi A5


Is the Audi A5 expensive to maintain compared to other coupes?

The Audi A5 offers competitive running costs for a premium coupe, with efficient engines and reasonable tax bands.

  • Road Tax: The standard annual VED rate for models registered after April 2017 is £195, though vehicles with a list price over £40,000 incur an additional surcharge.

  • Fuel Economy: The 2.0 TDI and TFSI engines are efficient, with real-world WLTP figures ranging between 33 and 44 mpg.

  • Insurance: Models sit within insurance groups 22-50, offering a wide range of options depending on the engine and trim level chosen.

How does the Audi A5 mild-hybrid system improve fuel efficiency?

The mild-hybrid technology introduced in later models enhances efficiency by recovering energy and allowing the engine to switch off during coasting.

  • Energy Recovery: The 12-volt system captures energy during braking and stores it in a small lithium-ion battery.

  • Coasting Function: It allows the engine to switch off while coasting at speeds between 34 and 99 mph to save fuel.

  • Stop-Start: The system enables the stop-start function to activate from 13 mph, further reducing fuel consumption in urban traffic.

What should I check when buying a used Audi A5?

The Audi A5 is a robust and well-engineered vehicle, but a few specific checks will ensure you find a top-quality example.

  • Transmission: Ensure the S tronic automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and without hesitation during your test drive.

  • Infotainment: Check that the MMI screen and Virtual Cockpit (if fitted) are functioning correctly and free from pixel errors.

  • Tyres and Suspension: Inspect the tyres for even wear and listen for any knocking sounds from the suspension over bumps.

Does the Audi A5 come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, smartphone integration is a key feature of the Audi A5's MMI infotainment system across the 2018-2025 range.

  • Standard Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on most models, allowing seamless access to your phone's apps.

  • MMI Interface: These systems are controlled via the intuitive MMI rotary dial or the touchscreen in post-2019 facelift models.

  • USB Ports: Ensure you use a high-quality USB cable connected to the correct port to enable the interface.

How does the Audi A5 Virtual Cockpit enhance the driving experience?

The Audi Virtual Cockpit replaces traditional dials with a high-resolution digital display that puts key information directly in your line of sight.

  • Customisable Display: You can switch between a classic view with large dials and an infotainment view with a smaller speedometer and rev counter.

  • Navigation: The system can display full-screen 3D navigation maps directly behind the steering wheel for easier route guidance.

  • Clarity: The 12.3-inch screen offers crisp graphics and fluid animations, making it easy to read at a glance.

Is the Audi A5 available with quattro all-wheel drive?

Yes, the legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system is widely available across the Audi A5 range, providing enhanced traction and stability.

  • Availability: You will find quattro fitted to higher-powered petrol and diesel engines, as well as the S5 performance model.

  • Performance: The system automatically distributes power between the front and rear axles to maximise grip in all weather conditions.

  • Standard Fitment: From 2021 onwards, quattro became standard on a wider range of A5 models.

What is the difference between the Audi A5 Coupe and Sportback boot space?

The Audi A5 Sportback offers greater practicality and easier loading compared to the Coupe, making it ideal for those needing extra space.

  • Coupe Capacity: The Coupe offers a respectable 465 litres of boot space with the rear seats in place.

  • Sportback Capacity: The Sportback increases this to 480 litres with the seats up, and expands to 1,300 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

  • Loading: The Sportback features a powered tailgate and a lower loading lip, making it easier to load heavy or bulky items.

Can the Audi A5 tow a caravan or trailer effectively?

The Audi A5 is a capable tow car, particularly when equipped with the torque-rich diesel engines and quattro all-wheel drive.

  • Towing Capacity: While specific limits vary by engine, the A5 is generally capable of towing braked trailers, with strong stability at speed.

  • Engine Choice: The 2.0 TDI engines offer excellent torque, making them well-suited for towing duties.

  • Stability: The long wheelbase and sophisticated suspension setup contribute to a stable and controlled towing experience.

How do I update the MMI navigation system in my Audi A5?

Keeping your MMI navigation system up to date ensures you have the latest maps and route information for your journeys.

  • Over-the-Air: Later models with Audi Connect can receive map updates over-the-air directly to the vehicle.

  • MyAudi: You can often download updates via the myAudi online portal and transfer them to the car using an SD card or USB stick.

  • Dealer Update: Your local Vertu Audi dealership can also perform a full system update during your next service.

Used Audi cars and locations