2023 Audi A5

The A5 range is extensive and quite complicated to navigate, with three body styles – Sportback, Coupe, and Convertible – and four engines. There are three trim levels on most models, though the high-performance RS 5 variant is available with a single trim line in either Coupe or Sportback guise.

Prices start at $45,695 for an A5 Sportback Premium with the 40 TFSI engine, while upgrading to the 45 powerplant costs between $1,250 and $2,100 depending on trim. Coupe prices start at $47,795 and the cheapest Cabriolet is $54,995 – both models are only available with the 45 engine. Upgrading to an S5 model costs between $9,100 and $11,200 more than the comparative A5 trim, while RS5 is available in either Sportback or Coupe guise with a single trim configuration from $79,295.

A5 Sportback purchasers are alone in having a choice of engines – the 40 TFSI gas unit that produces 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, or the 45 TFSI unit that generates 261 hp and 273 lb-ft. Both utilize a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Coupe and Cabriolet models exclusively come with the 45 engine, while S5s are fitted with a three-liter six-cylinder unit producing 349 hp and 369 lb-ft via an eight-speed transmission. That gearbox also features in RS 5 models, where a slightly smaller 2.9-liter engine nonetheless increases its output to 444 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel economy varies from an EPA-estimated 24 miles per gallon city, 33 mpg highway, and 28 combined for the 40 Sportback down to 21/28/23 for the S5 Cabriolet, and 18/25/21 for the RS5 Sportback.

Cargo capacity for the Audi A5 stands at 21.8 cu ft in the Sportback, 10.9 in the Coupe, and 9.3 in the Cabriolet.

Every A5 comes with cruise control and a top speed electronically limited to 130 mph, while S5 models are restricted to 155 and RS buyers can pay to have their limit raised to 180. Standard driver aids include impact mitigation technologies, lane departure warning, LED headlights with automatic high beams, and integrated washers. Automatic emergency braking also comes as standard, though a surround-view camera system, front/rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control are only fitted to Premium Plus models and above. Prestige is alone in receiving parking assistance and a head-up display, as well as laser headlights.

A seven-inch color instrumentation display sits behind the A5’s three-spoke steering wheel, with wireless smartphone mirroring through a 10.1-inch infotainment screen. A ten-speaker audio system is the standard setup, while Premium Plus models upgrade to a 3D Bang & Olufsen stereo alongside phone signal-boosting technology and satellite radio. You’ll need to fork out for Prestige trim to access a head-up display or navigation, though the latter can be added to Premium Plus as a standalone extra.

Riding on 18-inch double-spoke wheels and sports suspension, the most affordable A5/S5 models have heated power outside mirrors alongside keyless engine start/stop and LED headlights incorporating integral washers. A panoramic sunroof illuminates a cabin with a three-zone climate including a digital rear display, LED lighting, heated leather front seats, and wooden inlays. S5 models receive quad exhaust tips, 19-inch tires, and sports suspension plus carbon dash inlays and S badging.

The $2,500 Convenience Package stands alone on Premium models. It combines ten features, covering safety (adaptive cruise, an alarm, and side assistance) and comfort (memory for the driver’s seat and outside mirrors, a heated steering wheel, and satellite radio).

Some of the improvements on Premium Plus models might initially escape you, such as the self-folding and auto-dimming memory outside mirrors, or the power trunk release. More noticeable cabin improvements include a 12.3-inch configurable instrument cluster, while a surround-view camera system and adaptive cruise control make the driver’s life easier. Creature comforts include signal boosting and wireless charging for smartphones, plus satellite radio.

As on Premium models, bigger wheels and revised suspension distinguish S5s, alongside a power panoramic sunroof and split leather/Dynamica seating surfaces.

In terms of upgrades, navigation costs $1,500 and ventilated front seats are $800, while the Black Optic Plus pack includes black external detailing, chrome exhaust tips, and red brake calipers behind bespoke 19-inch wheels. It costs $2,350. S5 buyers can also add ventilated leather front sports seats for $550.

Adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assistance is among the key safety enhancements on Prestige models, while ventilated front seats come as standard. This is the first A5 to offer navigation, a head-up display, or traffic sign recognition.

S5 specification differences are limited to tires and exhausts, stainless steel pedals, and superior Nappa leather seating.

The Black Optic Plus package remains available on non-convertible A5s, and the Warm Weather pack on convertible S5s blends ventilated leather seats and neck-level heating for $1,150.

RS 5 models have specifications equivalent to Premium Plus-model A5 trim. The only differences beyond the powertrain are a simpler cruise control system and the removal of a surround-view camera system. RS-specific sports suspension and design details are added outside, with honeycomb-stitched Nappa leather seating inside.

Numerous packages are available on RS 5 models, including the $3,000 Driver Assistance Pack, bundling in a head-up display and surround-view camera system with active lane assist, park assist, and adaptive cruise including traffic jam assist. For $3,400, you could have the Dynamic Package’s red brake calipers, RS sports suspension, and a sports exhaust system.

Compare A5 Trims Side-By-Side