2025 Audi A5 Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Even within Audi’s stylish lineup, the A5 stands out with its good looks. Essentially an A4 sedan transformed into a sleek fastback, the A5 makes a statement while providing some useful practicality. For the 2025 model year, Audi introduced a redesigned A5 to be offered alongside the old A5 Sportback model. Some of the A5’s closest competitors include the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, Polestar 2, and Acura Integra.
What’s New
- New model, simply called A5, offered alongside the old A5 Sportback
- Garage door opener buttons integrated into the rearview mirror on all models
- Black exterior trim standard on A5 45 model
- New 19-inch wheel design standard on Premium Plus trims
- Available S Line Plus package brings additional black exterior trim, red brake calipers, and sporty interior upgrades on A5 45 Premium Plus and Prestige variants
- Trial navigation subscription added as standard equipment to Premium Plus models
- Available Convenience package adds second-row USB ports
- Available Convenience Plus package adds driver seat memory, proximity unlocking, auto-dimming side mirrors, side cross-traffic alert, rear automatic braking, all-digital gauge cluster, silver interior trim, and new wheels to A5 45 Premium
What We Think
Audi’s four-door fastback sure does look good, but the A5’s design is more stirring than its driving experience.
As would be expected from a car with the four-ringed badge, the A5 is comfortable and capable. It’s quick enough even with the standard turbo-four engine, but from behind the wheel, things are a bit anodyne. The S5 turns up the heat somewhat, but the vicious RS5 is a true thrill.
As a trade-off for reserved performance on most variants, the A5 lineup delivers great overall refinement. The car’s construction and materials are top-notch, and a variety of upscale amenities are on offer. Perhaps best of all, the A5 Sportback available for 2025 is legitimately practical thanks to its spacious hatchback cargo area—much more so than the trunk-equipped A4. One slight downside is that that interior volume can allow some echoing resonances into the cabin.
Even if the A5 isn’t quite exciting, it functions well and is appreciably luxurious. We’re eager to see how Audi elevates the experience on the next-generation A5 coming soon.
The Other 2025 Audi A5?
Audi has revealed the next-generation A5, referred to by those in the know as the B10 generation. The new A5 takes on a four-door form factor not unlike what the A4 was for many generations—however, despite its sedanlike silhouette, the new A5 retains its signature hatchback cargo area. Unlike the original A5, though, coupe and convertible body styles will not be offered.
Although Audi announced the new A5 as a 2025 model, that timing is likely only for Europe and other overseas markets. By the time it arrives in the United States, it’ll probably be sold as a 2026 model.
Performance and MPGs
The standard engine in the A5 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder, which is connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi’s Quattro AWD system. It’s offered in two states of tune.
In A5 40 TFSI models, the engine makes 201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. According to Audi, that should deliver a 6.4-second 0–60-mph time. EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/36 mpg city/highway this year, reflecting a 1 mpg improvement on the highway compared to last year..
Choosing the A5 45 TFSI version raises engine output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, which reduces the 0–60-mph time to approximately 5.2 seconds. Fuel economy also drops, to 22/31 mpg.
Audi S5 vs. RS5: What’s the Difference?
Audi offers two high-performance variants of the A5. First is the S5, which packs a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 making 349 hp and 369 lb-ft. That’s routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to a reworked Quattro AWD system. Acceleration to 60 mph takes 4.3 seconds. Upgraded suspension and larger brakes round out the S5’s sporty capabilities.
Next up is the RS5, equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6. That engine delivers 444 hp and 442 lb-ft, again channeled by an eight-speed automatic to Quattro AWD. Launching the RS5 Sportback to 60 mph takes just 3.6 seconds. Compared to the S5, the RS5’s chassis and brakes are tuned for an even sharper feel.
Safety Ratings and Features
In its most recent safety testing for 2025, the A5 Sportback earned a five-star score, the highest, from NHTSA. In IIHS evaluations, the A5 Sportback received the top Good score in the three crashworthiness tests it was subjected to.
All 2025 A5 models are equipped with driver assist and active safety features including front automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher-end trims gain rear and side cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Rather than a sedan with an enclosed trunk, the A5 Sportback is a four-door fastback with a hatchback cargo hold. Here’s how its practicality compares to other vehicles with that form factor.
Technology
Every 2025 A5 comes equipped with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen that’s compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium trim has a digital display between the analog gauges, while the Premium Plus and Prestige trims get a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. All models have front-row USB ports; second-row ports are available, and the Premium Plus and Prestige trims have a wireless charging pad. Those higher-end trims also get a Bang & Olufsen upgraded audio system and a 360-degree camera. A head-up display is included on the top Prestige trim.
Which 2025 Audi A5 Trim Level Is Best?
We’d probably wait for the next-generation model arriving soon, but if you’re set on getting the outgoing model, we suggest the A5 40 TFSI Premium Plus. This midrange model has basic engine tune, which isn’t exactly thrilling but sufficient for daily needs (go with the S5 if you need real performance). Over the entry-level Premium trim, Premium Plus brings niceties such as an all-digital gauge display, upgraded audio system, wireless phone charger, 360-degree camera, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2025 A5 Sportback 40 TFSI Premium Plus starts at slightly less than $53,000.
