Is the 2021 Audi A5 a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B6/10
Consider buying if you value style and performance, and you're prepared for higher maintenance costs.
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Pros
- Luxurious and comfortable interior
- Engaging driving dynamics
- Strong performance
Cons
- Expensive maintenance and repairs
- Tight rear seat space
- Slightly higher depreciation
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
24 mpg
Maintenance cost
$4,500/yr
Expected lifespan
200,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Electronic glitches with MMI system
- Potential oil consumption
- Minor turbocharger issues
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (5)
The 2021 Audi A5 has 5 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Back Over Prevention — Display Function (campaign 22V742000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Tires — Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5,…
- Exterior Lighting — Tail Lights — Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS5 Sportback, 2020-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, and S5 Sportback vehicles. The wiring harness for the rear lights could be missing the anti-abrasion pr…
- Suspension — Rear — Axle — Non-Powered Axle Assembly — Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5,…
- Back Over Prevention — Display Function — Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A…
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.