Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.2026 Audi A5 vs A4: ComparisonAudi's odd-even naming convention ended before it could even begin. The trouble it, it was too late for the A5 to pedal back on that decision. With that, the A4 nameplate had been retired, at least for now, and the A5 is now the successor of the A4, losing the coupe and convertible in the process. It now comes in more practical body styles, though as a sedan/Sportback and an Avant (unavailable in North America).Still, it's worth comparing the two as it's effectively comparing the old and new generations of the same car. Audi A4 vs A5 was going to be an inevitable comparo, and those interested in either might want to stick around to see which one suits them better.AudiView the 2 images of this gallery on the original articlePerformance and Economy: A Surprise Efficiency WinnerWe kick off the A4 vs A5 comparo with powertrains. Open the hood of both the A5 and A4, and you'll be greeted by the same engine. Both use the familiar 2.0-liter turbo engine known as the EA888. If anything in the Volkswagen Group has a turbo two-liter, it's bound to be that.AdvertisementAdvertisementThat said, the A5's engine isn't an exact carryover from the A4. The older car makes 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, whereas the newer one packs 268 hp and 295 lb-ft. While it sounds like the A5 can pull away from the A4 thanks to the added torque, it's heavier, so both do 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds.As for economy, the A5 should have the advantage as it has a mild-hybrid system. However, EPA ratings tell a different story, as the A4 actually holds a slight edge with 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined. The A5 is rated at 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. Both are, of course, all-wheel drive.View the 2 images of this gallery on the original articlePracticality: The Liftback Wins, but the A4 has a WagonDespite the sportier appearance, the A5 easily trounces the A4 when it comes to practicality. You can thank the liftback design for that, as it not only offers a far larger cargo area, but far easier access over the A4's traditional sedan body style.AdvertisementAdvertisementHow much bigger is the A5's trunk over the A4? The newer car has 22.6 cu-ft. of available space back there, which isn't that far off the Q3 and Q5, making one wonder how much more practical crossovers are over liftbacks, hatchbacks, and wagons. As for the A4, it could only manage 13 cu-ft. However, the A4 Allroad with its Avant (wagon) body carries 24.2 cu-ft. In the Audi A4 vs Audi A5 practicality test, the newer car wins, but if you find a barely-used A4 Allroad, that one's hard to beat.AudiView the 2 images of this gallery on the original articleInterior: Tech vs. SimplicityThe A4 was made during a time when buttons still ruled the cabin. One can say it was designed with logic in mind, and the screens were supplements, not the main control center. In stark contrast, the A5 gets a whole load of it, and admittedly may need some getting used to even from those coming from past Audi models.Pre-facelift A4s have the simplest cabins, although the enhancements in the update were welcome. When the A5 came along, there were criticisms surrounding its use of capacitive touch panels, more functions being moved to the touchscreen, and the optional passenger-side screen. It's been rectified for the most part, though, and even has a simpler infotainment system compared to the launch models. Being the newer model, it also benefits from more standard tech.AdvertisementAdvertisementAs for interior space, the A5 does benefit from more legroom thanks to a longer wheelbase. Despite the sloping roofline, the A5 even has ever so slightly more headroom over the A4.AudiView the 2 images of this gallery on the original articlePricing and TrimsThe difference between Audi A4 and Audi A5 is generational, so it's a question of getting brand-new or used, as stocks of the A4 have all but depleted by now. Both have pros and cons, and the older car is, of course, cheaper to buy. A fairly new second-hand A4 goes for $38,600 and $40,900 according to Kelley Blue Book, depending on mileage, condition, and other factors.Of course, there is an inherent risk in buying any used car. If that's too much of a risk for you, 2026 Audi A5 prices start at $50,200 and go up to $56,700. That said, the 2027 model will be simplified to just one trim, and it's up to the customer to pick which packages suit them best. The A5 is available with tech that was never offered in the A4, along with more safety and an IIHS Top Safety Pick + rating. Plus, Audi Signature Care is included whether you buy or lease it.AudiView the 2 images of this gallery on the original articleFinal ThoughtsBoth cars are great options in the (not so) compact executive sedan market. Before it was retired, the A4 was still holding its own against the newer C-Class and 3 Series. It did a fine job of combining the personalities of its competitors without much in the way of compromise. The A5 still does that task incredibly well, and it's hard to hate on it.AdvertisementAdvertisementGo for the A5, and you have the peace of mind that goes along with buying a brand-new car. It's factory fresh, with a full warranty, and the Audi Signature Care is a huge convenience that also helps lower ownership costs. There's also the benefit of safety, as it's designed with more stringent regulations.That said, a used A4 is a smart choice. Those who prefer a simpler and easier-to-use layout will appreciate it, and the build quality is as good as it gets. While the trunk isn't the biggest, interior space is still commendable. Find one with some warranty left, and you might just bag yourself a solid deal, but that's only if you're willing to dive into the used car market with a fine-tooth comb. Succeed in that, and you might just drive home a sweet deal.AudiThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Jul 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the Features section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.