2021 Audi A5 Convertible
2021 Audi A5 Review
- Understated and classy interior
- Strong overall performance
- Plenty of standard and optional tech features
- Limited interior storage
- New 12-volt mild hybrid system adds 13 horsepower
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and lane departure warning are now standard
- New A5 Sportback 40 TFSI Quattro with less horsepower from 2.0-liter engine
- Part of the second A5 generation introduced for 2018
In an automotive landscape dominated by the SUV and all of its various subdivisions, the two-door coupe feels like an endangered species. Only a handful of automakers, mostly European, offer a coupe in their lineup, and most hedge their bets with a complementary four-door model built in the sleek shape of a sport coupe. Among the standouts in this shrinking class is the 2021 Audi A5.
Built on the same foundation as the A4 sedan, the A5 trades four-door utility for large measures of style. Its sweeping roofline, larger wheels and sculpted rear panels make it one of the sharpest-looking coupes on the road today. The A5 is also available as a convertible and, yes, a four-door hatchback known as the Sportback.
The A5 interior features impeccable interior design and infotainment based around a 10-inch high-resolution display. The A5 even now offers wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. Android Auto users are still out of luck for wireless support, although a USB cable connection comes standard.
Other A5 changes in 2021 include more horsepower (up 13 horsepower) thanks to a light electric-assist motor that shoulders certain low-intensity tasks typically handled by the engine. Key tech features also filter down one trim level, with lane keeping assist and a surround-view camera now standard on the Premium Plus, for example.
For 2021, the A5 Sportback variant offers a second option, with less horsepower at a lower cost. It's the most affordable entry point into the A5 lineup — and arguably the most useful with its four doors and 40/20/40-split folding rear seat. The coupe and convertible only offer 50/50-split folding seats.
We think the A5 is a smart pick for a small luxury coupe or convertible even against the likes of the BMW 4 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The A5 Sportback version is similarly appealing. If the luxury sport coupe is indeed seeing its final days, the A5 remains one of its strongest survivors.
Which A5 does Edmunds recommend?
Audi A5 models
The 2021 Audi A5 is offered as a two-door coupe or convertible or as a four-door hatchback called the Sportback. Each body style offers three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Most come with a turbocharged 261-horsepower four-cylinder engine (called 45 TSFI), a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The exception is the new 40 TSFI version of the Sportback, which has 201 hp. Audi also sells the higher-performance S5, reviewed separately.
2021 Audi A5 Convertible pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2021 Audi A5 Convertible Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $50,400
- MPG & Fuel
- 23 City / 31 Hwy / 26 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: N/A capacity
- Seating
- 4 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 7-speed automated manual
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 261 hp @ N/A rpm
- Torque: 273 lb-ft @ N/A rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 184.9 in. / Height: 54.4 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 79.8 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 72.5 in.
- Curb Weight: 3979 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 9.3 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite A5 safety features:
- Audi Pre Sense City
- Warns of an impending front collision and automatically applies the brakes if you don't.
- Audi Side Assist
- Notifies you if there's a car in your blind spot and alerts you if you activate the turn signal.
- Vehicle Exit Warning
- Alerts passengers when a vehicle or bicyclist is approaching from behind, to prevent them from opening the door into traffic.
Audi A5 vs. the competition
2021 Audi A5
2021 BMW 4 Series
Audi A5 vs. BMW 4 Series
The A5 and the 4 Series are a classic matchup among sporty luxury coupes. Both offer similar performance, luxury, comfort and features, but they have a distinctive character. Broadly speaking, the 4 Series is just a bit more fun to drive, while the A5's interior and tech give it a sharper and more modern feel. That said, the Audi is no slouch on an open road. Both also offer a four-door version. Of note, the 4 Series was redesigned for 2021 with increased performance but also a polarizing exterior style.
Audi A5 vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
A fully redesigned C-Class is due in showrooms early next year (although a new coupe may arrive later), and we expect it to leave little on the table when it comes to outclassing its rivals. It will offer a mild hybrid engine package, similar to the A5. Expect to see elegant interior materials and design distilled from the flagship S-Class lineup and cutting-edge driver safety tech, such as cruise control that can slow down for curves. The current C-Class was last redesigned in 2015, so it's showing its age relative to the A5. But it's still a terrific car, and now could be a good time for a deal on an outgoing model.
Audi A5 vs. Lexus RC 300
Luxury coupes come in other flavors than European, including the Lexus RC 300. The RC favors comfort over performance, so you won't get the same sharp handling and snappy response as the A5. But the RC rides exceptionally smooth, boasts one of the quietest cabins in the class, and has enough power from a choice of a V6 or a turbo four-cylinder engine to keep things interesting. We're not big fans of the clunky infotainment system or tiny back seats, but if you prioritize more Zen than adrenaline in your driving experience, the RC is a solid choice.
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FAQ
Is the Audi A5 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Audi A5?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Audi A5:
- New 12-volt mild hybrid system adds 13 horsepower
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and lane departure warning are now standard
- New A5 Sportback 40 TFSI Quattro with less horsepower from 2.0-liter engine
- Part of the second A5 generation introduced for 2018
Is the Audi A5 reliable?
Is the 2021 Audi A5 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Audi A5?
The least-expensive 2021 Audi A5 is the 2021 Audi A5 Premium 2dr Convertible AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $50,400.
Other versions include:
- Premium Plus 2dr Convertible AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM) which starts at $55,300
- Premium 2dr Convertible AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM) which starts at $50,400
- Prestige 2dr Convertible AWD w/45 TFSI (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM) which starts at $61,150