Audi A4 B8: A4 vs A5 Driving Impressions
Curious to know whether the B8 Audi A4 and the A5 deliver the same amount of power on the road? Well, keep reading because we've got the answer here.
This article applies to the B8 Audi A4 and A5 (2008-2015).
The difference between a B8 Audi A4 and a B8 Audi A5 is not so much evidenced in performance under the hood, both models feature identical high performance engines and achieve 220 hp, but rather in the base price, as well as the overall style and exterior dimensions of both vehicles. Will you notice many of these differences immediately, or are they subtle? According to many Audi drivers, the answer is the former. In fact, looking on many forum review sites, the number one critique of the A5 is its enhanced styling over the A4. Let's go over the other similarities and differences that have drawn both praise and criticism from both Audi owners and automotive industry leaders alike.
B8 Audi A4 vs the A5
Comparisons at a Glance
| 2015 Audi A4 2.0T Premium Plus | 2015 Audi A5 2.0T Premium Plus Quattro | |
|---|---|---|
|
Height |
56.2 inches |
54 inches |
| Sunroof | Extends all the way open | Extends about an inch |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged Gas Inline-4 | 2.0L Turbocharged Gas Inline-4 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Base Price | $37,600 | $42,300 |
The differences between the B8 Audi A4 and the Audi A5 are strikingly wide across a number of key areas, including price, interior features (sunroof) and transmission. One similarity is the engine, however. Both models feature a 2.0L Turbocharged Gas Inline-4.
Reputation by Model
The Audi A4 and the A5 are compact executive vehicles with a generally positive reputation for high performance. However, there are some differences between the two models, as well as a few controversies regarding how they are currently priced, with the A5 carrying a higher price tag. The A4 is available as a station wagon or as a sedan, whereas the A5 is available as a standard Quattro all-wheel-drive vehicle, with coupe and cabriolet (soft top only) versions available. The A4 holds a strong reputation for delivering a quiet drive, while simultaneously boasting expressively high safety ratings and scoring high marks among a wide array of engine-related performance tests. The A5 also holds a positive reputation; however, the model does suffer some criticism for possessing a comparatively weaker engine. Drivers seeking more power behind the wheel might want to consider the big brothers, the Audi S5 or RS5.
Consumer Driving Impressions
A stock for stock comparison of the Audi A5 against the A4 draws some fairly balanced responses, critiques and performance assessments. However, on the whole, many drivers believe the A5 delivers a much better drive than the A4. There is some overlap in which vehicle drivers say feels "softer" on the road (e.g. smoother power underneath the hood), however. Overall, both models are rated highly for performance. A few considerations you might want to make before making your purchase is price, body style and size, as these are the areas where the A5 and the A4 show their differences the most.
Common Questions
How similar are the interior controls in the Audi A4 and the A5?
The interior controls in both models are virtually the same with no noticeable differences, aside from the sunroof, which, in the Audi A4, does not open fully.
Who are the competitors for the Audi A4 and the A5?
The Audi A4 rivals against the Toyota Camry and Toyota Prius Four. However, when it comes to other Audi makes and models, the Audi A3 Premium and Q1 Premium Plus are the toughest competitors for the A4. The Audi A5 Premium Plus, on the other hand, is in direct competition with the BMW 550i and the BMW 328i. Audi's own top-selling A6 Premium is also a strong contender for the A5.
What are the exact exterior dimensions for the Audi A4 and the A5?
In a few words, the 2015 Audi A4 2.0T Premium Plus is bigger than the 2015 Audi A5 2.0T Premium Plus Quattro. The exterior dimensions of both models are as follows:
Audi A4:
- 185.1 inches in length
- 71.9 in inches wide
- 56.2 inches in height
Audi A5
- 182.1 inches in length
- 73 inches in width
- 54 inches in height
What is the biggest distinguishes factor between the Audi A4 and the A5?
The most notable distinguishing factor between the Audi A4 and the A5 is the overall styling achievements of the Audi A5. Described as "slicker," "sexier" and "more elegantly focused" than the Audi A4, the A5 delivers advanced styling to achieve top reviews for overall interior design.
Related Discussion and Site
- Differences Between the Audi A4 and the Audi A5 - TheyDffer
- Driving Impressions - AudiWorld
