2027 Audi A5audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPractical hatchback bodyExcellent infotainmentAppealing valueDull to driveA bit too techyDecent interior materialsOnce a sleek, stylish alternative to the now-discontinued A4 sedan, the A5 serves as the base of Audi's car lineup. It's built as a four-door fastback sedan; the A5 coupe and convertible are no longer in production.This third-generation A5 was introduced for 2025. As before, the S5 and RS5 are available as higher-performance variants. Luxury compact car rivals include the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, Lexus IS, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.What's NewBasicsLineup streamlined to single trim levelDriver Assistance package combines head-up display, dynamic interaction lighting, dashcam, and parking assistanceNew Sport Plus package adds adaptive suspensionExteriorNew wheel options with Black Optic packageUpgraded headlights included with Executive packageBadges deleted; red brake calipers and 20-inch wheels with summer tires added with Sport Plus packageInteriorHeadliner color-keyed to upholsteryExecutive package adds premium audio, ventilated front seats, high-output USB portsVorsprung package includes passenger touchscreen, heated rear seats, rear window sunshades, plus Executive and Driver Assistance package featuresSport steering wheel, red stitching and seat belt details, metal pedal caps, and brushed aluminum trim contained in Sport Plus packageWhat We ThinkThe redesigned Audi A5 has diverse appeal as a refined, practical daily driver. Styling is handsome but lacks the sharp visual distinction of its predecessor. That said, the hatchback body delivers useful cargo capacity exceeding that of a typical sedan.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdequate, accessible power comes from the turbocharged engine. The chassis feels balanced and composed. Ride quality is comfortable without being floaty, and the quiet cabin makes highway cruising pleasant. But light steering, occasional transmission fumbles, and a gruff engine limit engagement. Even the S5 isn't particularly sporty—get the RS5 for real thrills.Inside, material quality is generally good, although some plastics and fake-looking wood undermine the premium atmosphere. Audi's crisp, intuitive displays impress, offering smartphone-fast responses, a useful voice assistant, and great reconfigurability. But as in so many modern cars, reliance on digital controls for basic functions is frustrating.Even so, the A5 is a solid luxury all-rounder, especially given its relative value pricing. It may not stir much emotion, but it performs its intended role with admirable competence.Top-Ranked Competitors:BMW 4 Series Gran CoupeMercedes-Benz C-ClassLexus ISPolestar 4MotorTrend TestedEvery A5 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine that produces 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, along with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro AWD.AdvertisementAdvertisementIn MotorTrend testing, the A5 launched from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.MPGs and RangeFuel economy for the A5 is rated at 22/32 mpg city/highway. With a full gas tank, maximum driving range is approximately 385 miles.Sporty and Super Sporty: Audi S5 and RS5The A5 isn't very engaging, but Audi has solutions for drivers who want more excitement. The S5 adds a V-6 engine and some chassis upgrades to enhance acceleration and connection. Above that, there's the RS5. It gains a strong hybrid powertrain and extensive hardware upgrades to become a rowdy, drift-capable rocket—although it's very heavy.Safety Ratings and FeaturesIn its most recent crash safety testing for 2026, the A5 earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status, the best possible result.Standard FeaturesEvery A5 includes front automatic emergency braking, rear and side cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beams.Available FeaturesAudi's Adaptive Cruise Assist Plus is an enhanced system that provides a higher degree of driving assistance based on road conditions, traffic patterns, and varying speed limits.Cargo Space and Interior RoomUnlike the now-departed A4, the A5 is not a sedan with an enclosed trunk. It has a hatchback cargo area, which gives it ample carrying capacity.TechnologyInfotainmentEvery 2027 A5 has an 11.9-inch digital driver's display and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. The user interface is Audi's great MMI system; wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included. A wireless charging pad is standard, along with USB-C ports. There's also a 360-degree camera.Sound SystemA 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with headrest speakers can be optioned above the standard sound setup.Available UpgradesTech options for the A5 include a 10.9-inch touchscreen for the front passenger, an electrochromic dimming panoramic sunroof, premium animated LED headlights, high-power USB-C ports, and a built-in dashcam.ValueStandard FeaturesFor 2027, Audi will build the A5 in only one trim level that starts at slightly less than $52,000. Standard exterior features include 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, heated power-folding side mirrors, and a power-operated tailgate. The cabin is equipped with leather upholstery, heated front seats, three-zone automatic climate control, a 360-degree camera, and a wireless charging pad.Recommended TrimSince Audi doesn't offer the 2027 A5 in multiple trim levels, we'd suggest equipping it with the Driver Assistance package. That adds useful tech such as a head-up display, built-in dashcam, and semi-autonomous parking assist system. The new Vorsprung package builds on that with luxuries including heated rear seats, premium animated LED headlights, and additional driver assist features.