2008 Audi A5 Review
Price Estimate: $1,017 - $1,600





+55
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Elegant design inside and out, crisp handling, superb fit and finish, plenty of luxury and safety features, standard all-wheel drive.
Cons
- Brakes can be touchy until you acclimate, rear seat short on room for taller passengers.
What’s new
The 2008 Audi A5 is an all-new midsize luxury sport coupe. Based on the Audi A4 sedan, the A5 promises more engaging handling than any recent mainstream Audi and comes wrapped in seductive sheet metal.
Edmunds says
With its curvaceous yet muscular styling, strong performance and finely tailored cabin, the 2008 Audi A5 personifies the luxury sport coupe.
For sale near San Antonio, TX
3 listings
- 186,350 miles
- No accidents, 6 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 6cyl manual
- Toyo Financial Group (179 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Cypress, TX
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
20 Combined MPG (16 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WAUDK78T48A032343
Stock: 032343
Certified Pre-Owned: No- 146,079 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 6cyl manual
- Leesburg Auto Import (1,367 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Leesburg, VA
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
20 Combined MPG (16 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WAUDK78T28A038545
Stock: L038545
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-27-2025
Vehicle overview
Passion over practicality? When one is shopping in the luxury sport coupe segment, most definitely. Luxury sport sedans provide virtually identical performance and comfort plus extra practicality, but sometimes the passionate pull of a coupe's swanky body style is too strong to resist. And when it comes to style, not much else in this class can match the 2008 Audi A5 coupe.
All-new for this year, the A5 (as well as its high-performance sibling, the S5) is instantly desirable thanks to its curvaceous sheet metal, which performs the rare task of being both elegant and muscular. Backing up this bionic Jaime Sommers-like bod is Audi's direct-injected V6 that makes 265 horsepower, a six-speed transmission (manual or automatic) and Quattro all-wheel drive.
Although much of the A5's platform is shared with the A4 sedan, there are a few key differences that further the coupe's sporting intentions. Among those tweaks are a new front suspension design, a longer wheelbase and a repackaging of the engine, transmission and steering rack. The result is improved weight distribution and handling, for more precise steering feel and action. These upgrades are slated to make it on the next-generation A4 sedan as well.
A key advantage for those who live with slippery weather conditions is the A5's AWD, a feature shared only with BMW's 328xi and 335xi coupes. With a 40/60-percent front-to-rear power split, the Quattro system provides a rear-wheel-drive car's crisp handling dynamics along with the extra grip of AWD. Other Audi assets include an expectedly handsome cabin filled with luxury features such as triple-zone climate control and finely finished leather and wood trim.
The 2008 Audi A5 faces some tough competition, however, in the form of the BMW 328i and 335i coupes, Infiniti G37 and Mercedes-Benz CLK350. The G37 is the bargain of the group, with its class-leading power and low price tag, though it can't match the warm cabin and overall polished demeanor of the A5. The Benz offers little beyond prestige, starting out at six grand more than the A5 while lacking the Audi's engaging character. The BMW siblings are the Audi's most direct competition, boasting superior driving dynamics along with reasonable pricing -- the 328i is considerably cheaper than the A5, and the 335i is only marginally more expensive, though adding AWD does bump up the Bimmers' prices. Really, there's not a bad one in the bunch. Just as long as you know you're choosing passion over practicality.
Performance & mpg
A 3.2-liter V6 with direct-injection technology powers the 2008 A5. Output stands at 265 hp and 243 pound-feet of torque. The V6 comes matched to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox ("Tiptronic") with manual shift control. Audi claims the manual-transmission A5 will run from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Our best time with an automatic-equipped A5 was 6.4 seconds.
Safety
Antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags all come standard.
Driving
With its longer wheelbase (compared to the A4), the 2008 Audi A5 has less mass hanging out over the front tires, which translates into more responsive steering and crisper turn-in. The wheel's effort is a bit light at lower speeds, but its precise action inspires confidence when unraveling a favorite twisty road.
The spirited V6 provides likewise eager response, while the manual transmission's shifter has somewhat long, but light-effort throws with firm engagement. Though at first they may seem touchy, the A5's brakes are strong and linear once you acclimate to them.
Interior
Typically Audi, the A5's cabin impresses with finely stitched leather, impeccable fit and finish and real wood trim (aluminum with the S-line package). The company's MMI (Multi Media Interface) multifunction controller works the audio, climate and (if equipped) navigation systems. Unlike its German rivals, however, Audi's controller is mostly intuitive and easy to use once you clear the still-steep learning curve.
The multiadjusting front seats offer all-day touring comfort, although lateral support for spirited driving is lacking unless you opt for the S-line's upgraded sport seats. The rear compartment offers seating for two, though taller folks will find under-thigh support and legroom somewhat lacking. The trunk offers 16.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity (large for a sedan, let alone a coupe) and the rear seat flips down to accommodate more, if need be.
2008 Audi A5 models
The 2008 Audi A5 is an entry-level luxury coupe. There is only one trim level. Standard feature highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, tri-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic tilt-up sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, eight-way power front seats, leather upholstery and a 10-speaker audio system with CD changer and satellite radio.
Options include 19-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, auto-dimming mirrors, a self-opening trunk lid, Bluetooth, keyless ignition, heated seats, parking assist (with rearview camera), a navigation system with an iPod interface and a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen premium audio system. There is also the "S-line" package that includes a sport suspension with 19-inch alloy wheels, unique front and rear fascias, sport seats (with more aggressive side bolsters), paddle shifters (for Tiptronic-equipped cars) and aluminum interior accents.

Audi RS 6 Avant vs. BMW M5 Touring: Big Wagons Hit the Track

2025 Audi A5 and S5 First Drive: Raising the Bar

2026 Audi Q3 First Look: Bold Styling and Fresh Tech

2025 Audi Q5 First Drive: Better to Drive, Harder to Love
Compare 2008 Audi A5 trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas
$212/mo for A5 quattro
A5 quattro
vs
$144/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#6 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$636/yr
vs. $607/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Frequency
0.26x/yr
vs. 1.36x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Severity
7.2%
vs. 10.5%
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal
Audi A5 Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Sexy
4.63 out of 5 starstgeorge, 08/26/2010
2008 Audi A5 quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
By far the sexiest car in 2008 and 2 years later still holding its sex appeal. Fun to drive, ahead of the design curve. Turns heads like Kim Kardashians backside. The six speed manual has some punch, especially in 2nd and 4th gear at the right speed and RPM. The 19 wheels are sporty yet classy and often get mistaken for aftermarket wheels. The most impressive design feature is the … cars stance. There is little overhang, fine European lines and the stance of a muscle car, simply beautiful.
First time I've ever loved my car
5 out of 5 starsHuy, 07/23/2008
2008 Audi A5 quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (3.2L 6cyl 6A)
I've had my A5 for almost 4 months now, and I still spend a couple moments to admire it before I get in to drive each day. I drove it through the mountains this weekend and had so much fun that I was actually laughing out loud. The handling is great, it's totally comfortable and even has enough room in the back for a child seat. I haven't had a single complaint come up. And yes, it … definitely turns a lot of heads when I'm driving it through town. It actually took me a while to get used to all the stares - not that I'm complaining.
Inspiring!
4.88 out of 5 starsInspiring!, 08/14/2008
2008 Audi A5 quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (3.2L 6cyl 6A)
This car is incredible. You cannot look at it & not be moved or inspired. Anyone who loves cars immediately gravititate to its inspiring curves and uniqueness, a classic. People are just drawn to its stunning design.
A5-Star Rating!
4.75 out of 5 starsHermanH, 06/27/2008
2008 Audi A5 quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (3.2L 6cyl 6A)
Having never owned a luxury car, this is my first and it did not disappoint my idea of what Audi luxury (or any other manufacturer for that matter) is all about. It is also my first production coupe ownership as well (if you don't count my replica kit roadster.) The exterior of the car is in a class all it's own. It takes some sports car queues and blends them into the coupe in a way no … other manufacturer has done as of late. The main attraction are the LED's. People stare, point, stay glued to their rear-view mirrors. The stance from the rear is elegant yet very strong with the 255 wide tires! Interior is simply first class for me. My first leather interior. I love this car.
2008 A5 Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $39,900 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $212/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the A5 include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Pre-collision safety system
- Post-collision safety system
People who viewed this also viewed
4.0 average Rating out of 1 reviews. |
Starting at $44,100 |
4.5 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $45,400 |
4.3 average Rating out of 3 reviews. |
Starting at $45,950 |
Related Used 2008 Audi A5 info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Mercedes Benz A Class 2020 Review
- Subaru Ascent 2021 Review
- Toyota Prius 2021 Review
- Mercedes Benz Maybach GLS 2021 Review
- Toyota Sienna 2020 Review
Shop similar models
- Used Audi S5 2025
- Used Volkswagen Golf-r 2025
- Used BMW 6-Series-Gran-Turismo 2019
- Used BMW 3-Series-Gran-Turismo 2019
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Audi A5 2010
- Used Audi A5 2011
- Used Audi A5 2012
- Used Audi A5 2013
- Used Audi A5 2014
- Used Audi A5 2015 For Sale
- Used Audi A5 2016
- Used Audi A5 2017
- Used Audi A5 2018
- Used Audi A5 2019
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2026 Acura ILX News
- 2024 Mirage G4
- New Audi Q6 e-tron
- Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2024
- 2025 2 Series
- 2024 BMW 4 Series
- New Hyundai Elantra N
- New Audi S7
- 2025 Bentley Continental Flying Spur News
- 2026 Toyota BZ News
Research other models of Audi
- 2025 Audi RS 5
- New Audi Q7
- 2025 Q5
- Audi RS 6 2025
- 2025 Audi A4
- 2025 A3
- New Audi A5
- New Audi S5
- New Audi e-tron GT
Other models
- Used Subaru Solterra in Hayward, CA 2025
- New Ram 1500-Classic for Sale in Montgomery, TX
- New Ford Escape for Sale in North Attleboro, MA
- New Mercedes-Benz Gle-Class for Sale in Waipahu, HI
- Used Chevrolet Silverado-1500-Hybrid in Baldwin Park, CA 2013
- Used Hummer H1 in Cerritos, CA 2004
- New Mercedes-Benz Cle for Sale in Golden, CO
- Used Mercedes-Benz Cls-Class in Long Beach, CA 2023
- Used Chrysler Concorde in Richmond, IN 2004
- New BMW I7 for Sale in Mahopac, NY