Audi A5

For 2025, Audi consolidated almost its entire lineup of small luxury cars into the A5 and its sporty S5 variant, replacing the A4 sedan, A4 Allroad wagon, S4, and the A5 coupe and convertible. The A4 is replaced by a redesigned version of what is now called the A5 Sportback, which is a four-door model with a hatchback-like trunk opening. There are only two engine options: The A5 gets a 268-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder, while the S5 gets a 362-hp, turbocharged V6. All A5/S5 models have all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We found the A5 pleasant and confidence-inspiring to drive, with quick steering, well-controlled body roll, and strong brakes, which make it an engaging car to hustle along a curvy road. It also benefits from a quiet cabin, comfortable front seats, and the added cargo-carrying ability that comes with its hatchback design. The overall experience is marred by two fairly glaring issues: The first is the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission’s lurching and hesitation at low speeds. The other sore point is the A5’s unintuitive controls, many of which are frustrating to use while driving. The outgoing A4 and A5 Sportback were sold alongside the new A5 for a short time.

Generation summary from Consumer Reports. Year-specific figures appear below; missing values mean unavailable, not zero.