Is the 2021 Audi S5 a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B7/10
The Audi S5 offers a great blend of performance and luxury, but maintenance can be pricey. It's best suited for those who value performance and style over utility and economy.
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Pros
- Strong performance with turbocharged V6
- Luxurious and well-crafted interior
- All-wheel drive provides excellent traction
Cons
- High maintenance costs compared to non-premium models
- Limited rear seat space
- Complex electronics can lead to costly repairs
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
20 mpg
Maintenance cost
$5,000/yr
Expected lifespan
200,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Carbon buildup on intake valves
- Oil consumption
- Potential for electronic component failure
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (5)
The 2021 Audi S5 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.