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The 2025 Audi A5 emerges as the best overall Audi sedan for most buyers, offering 268 horsepower, standard quattro AWD, and a practical sportback design starting at $48,995[1]. For entry-level luxury, the A3 at $38,200 delivers premium features at the lowest price point, while the A8 flagship at $93,295 provides ultimate luxury for those with larger budgets[2]. MotorTrend calls the new A5 a damn fine daily driver with excellent ride quality and comprehensive technology[3].
Overview: 2025 Audi Sedan Lineup Changes
The 2025 model year brings revolutionary changes to Audi’s sedan lineup. Most significantly, the all-new A5 replaces the beloved A4, moving to an entirely new platform with enhanced technology and a sportback design that provides SUV-like cargo practicality[1]. This naming shift initially caused confusion among buyers, but the A5 effectively combines the best elements of the previous A4 sedan and A5 Sportback into one vehicle[4].
For buyers exploring the Audi lineup, the current sedan offerings span from the compact A3 through the flagship A8, with performance S and RS variants available at each level. All models feature Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel drive system and advanced digital technology.
Complete Audi Sedan Comparison
| Model | Starting MSRP | Engine | Power | EPA Combined | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A3 | $38,200[2] | 2.0L Turbo I-4 | 201 hp[1] | 28 mpg[1] | First-time luxury buyers |
| A5 | $48,995[1] | 2.0L Turbo I-4 | 268 hp[3] | 26 mpg[1] | Daily driver balance |
| S5 | ~$65,000[1] | 3.0L Turbo V6 | 362 hp[1] | 23 mpg[1] | Driving enthusiasts |
| A6 | $67,380[1] | 3.0L Turbo V6 | 335 hp[1] | 25 mpg[1] | Business professionals |
| A7 | $73,295[1] | 3.0L Turbo V6 | 335 hp[1] | 25 mpg[1] | Style-conscious buyers |
| S6 | ~$78,000[1] | 2.9L TT V6 | 444 hp[1] | 22 mpg[1] | Executive performance |
| A8 | $93,295[1] | 3.0L Turbo V6 | 335 hp[1] | 22 mpg[1] | Ultimate luxury seekers |
#1. 2025 Audi A5: Best Overall Daily Driver
The all-new 2025 Audi A5 replaces the A4 as Audi’s compact luxury sedan and earns the top spot for its exceptional balance of performance, practicality, and technology[4]. Starting at $48,995, the A5 builds on an entirely new platform with 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque from its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder[1][3].
What Makes It Stand Out
MotorTrend reports the A5 reaches 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, with fuel economy of 22 city/31 highway mpg[3]. The sportback design provides 85% more cargo space than traditional sedans, making it genuinely practical for road trips and everyday use[1]. J.D. Power notes the comprehensive advanced driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control, active lane-centering, blind-spot warning, and automatic emergency braking[5].
Driving Experience
MotorTrend describes the A5 as more poised than plush, with ride quality that remains settled even over rough pavement[3]. The adaptive steering rack offers surprisingly good steering feel with sharp, immediate turn-in on secondary roads[5]. The suspension keeps body motions well controlled without devolving into floaty imprecision[3].
Pros:
- Standard quattro AWD included[1]
- Sportback design provides exceptional cargo space[4]
- New platform with enhanced technology[3]
- Consumer Reports predicts better-than-average reliability[6]
Cons:
- Noticeable turbo lag from stop[5]
- Not designed for spirited driving (that’s what the S5 is for)[3]
- Higher starting price than outgoing A4[4]
#2. 2025 Audi A6: Executive Luxury Leader
The 2025 Audi A6 bridges performance and executive elegance, starting at $67,380[1]. Powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, the A6 offers substantial power while maintaining refinement expected from business professionals[1].
Safety Excellence
IIHS rates the 2025 A6 with Good ratings across all crashworthiness categories[7]. The front crash prevention system earned a Superior rating for both vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian scenarios[7]. NHTSA awarded the A6 an overall 5-star safety rating with 4 stars for frontal crash and 5 stars for rollover resistance[8].
Interior and Technology
The A6 features dual touchscreen displays, ambient lighting, and Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster[9]. Consumer Reports expects average reliability based on brand data[10]. The interior offers generous space with 41.3 inches of front legroom and 37.4 inches in the rear[11].
Pros:
- 335-hp V6 provides smooth, refined power[1]
- IIHS Top Safety Pick eligible[7]
- Executive-grade interior materials[9]
- 463-mile driving range on a single tank[11]
Cons:
- Significant price jump from A5[1]
- Similar power to less expensive A5 S-line models
- Larger turning circle (39.7 ft) reduces urban maneuverability[11]
#3. 2025 Audi S5: Performance Excellence
For driving enthusiasts who want more than the standard A5 offers, the 2025 Audi S5 delivers supercar-level acceleration in a practical sedan package[1]. The 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 produces 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than the base A5[1].
Performance Credentials
Audi’s quattro ultra all-wheel drive with sport differential provides maximum traction during aggressive driving while maintaining composure during daily commuting[1]. MotorTrend notes the S5 is specifically designed for spirited driving, unlike the comfort-focused A5[3].
Pros:
- 362-hp V6 delivers genuine performance[1]
- Sport differential enhances cornering capability[1]
- Shares A5’s practical sportback design
- Premium exhaust note enhances driving experience
Cons:
- Starting around $65,000 represents significant premium over A5[1]
- Lower fuel economy (23 mpg combined)[1]
- May be too aggressive for daily-driver-only buyers
#4. 2025 Audi A8: Flagship Luxury Technology
The 2025 Audi A8 represents the pinnacle of Audi’s sedan lineup at $93,295[1]. This flagship delivers executive rear seats, massaging functions, and an optional footrest for ultimate passenger comfort[9]. The mild-hybrid twin-turbo V6 produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque[12].
Technology Leadership
The A8 features Audi’s Digital Stage advanced technology interface with comprehensive connectivity features[1]. Extended wheelbase options provide maximum rear passenger comfort for chauffeur-driven scenarios[1].
Pros:
- Ultimate luxury appointments including executive rear seating[9]
- Mild-hybrid system improves efficiency[12]
- Lowest entry price among German flagship sedans[1]
- Maximum technology integration[1]
Cons:
- Significantly higher price than A6 for similar powertrain[1]
- Size limits urban practicality
- S8 performance variant starts at $155,850[13]
#5. 2025 Audi A3: Entry Luxury Value
The 2025 Audi A3 offers the most accessible entry point to Audi ownership at $38,200[2]. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, the A3 delivers 28 mpg combined—the best fuel economy in Audi’s sedan lineup[1].
Safety and Reliability
IIHS awards the A3 Good ratings across crashworthiness categories with Top Safety Pick status[14]. Consumer Reports expects average reliability compared to other new cars[15]. Standard equipment includes 10 airbags and comprehensive driver assistance features[8].
Pros:
- Lowest price in Audi sedan lineup at $38,200[2]
- Best fuel economy (28 mpg combined)[1]
- IIHS Top Safety Pick[14]
- S3 performance variant available at $48,700[2]
Cons:
- Smallest interior space in the lineup
- 201 hp feels modest compared to larger models[1]
- FWD standard (quattro available)[1]
#6. 2025 Audi A7: Style-Focused Sportback
The 2025 Audi A7 offers the most dramatic styling in Audi’s sedan lineup with its swooping fastback design at $73,295[1]. Sharing the A6’s 335-hp 3.0-liter V6 powertrain, the A7 prioritizes visual presence over the A6’s traditional sedan practicality[1].
Pros:
- Most distinctive styling in the lineup[1]
- Shares A6’s proven powertrain (335 hp, 25 mpg)[1]
- Sportback design provides hatchback versatility
Cons:
- Higher price than similarly-equipped A6[1]
- Rear headroom compromised by roofline
- RS7 performance variant reaches $148,000[13]
#7. 2025 Audi S6: Executive Performance
The 2025 Audi S6 bridges the gap between the refined A6 and the track-focused RS6, starting around $78,000[1]. Powered by a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 444 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, the S6 delivers genuine performance while maintaining executive sedan composure[1].
Performance Credentials
The S6 reaches 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds, making it significantly quicker than the standard A6[1]. Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive with sport differential provides maximum traction during aggressive driving while maintaining composure during daily commuting[1]. Fuel economy sits at 22 mpg combined, typical for this performance level[1].
Interior and Technology
The S6 shares the A6’s dual touchscreen interior layout with sport-specific additions including S sport seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, and aluminum interior trim[9]. The cabin offers the same generous space as the A6 with 41.3 inches of front legroom[11].
Pros:
- 444-hp twin-turbo V6 provides substantial power upgrade over A6’s 335 hp[1]
- Maintains A6’s refined interior and technology[9]
- Sport differential enhances cornering dynamics[1]
- More accessible than RS6 Avant ($118,000+)[13]
Cons:
- Significant price premium over standard A6 (~$10,000+)[1]
- Lower fuel economy (22 mpg combined vs 25 mpg)[1]
- Less aggressive styling than RS variants
Reliability Expectations
Consumer Reports provides reliability predictions for the 2025 Audi sedan lineup:
| Model | Reliability Prediction | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A4 (outgoing) | Better than average[16] | Based on 2023 model data |
| A5 (new) | Better than average[6] | Based on previous A4/A5 data |
| A3 | Average[15] | Based on brand data |
| A6 | Average[10] | Based on 2023-2024 data |
All Audi sedans carry a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty[11]. For context on Audi maintenance costs, expect premium pricing typical of German luxury brands.
Key Takeaways
- The all-new 2025 Audi A5 ($48,995) earns top ranking for its balance of performance, practicality, and technology on an entirely new platform
- For entry-level luxury, the A3 at $38,200 offers 28 mpg combined and IIHS Top Safety Pick status
- The A6 ($67,380) delivers executive luxury with NHTSA 5-star safety ratings and 335-hp V6 power
- Consumer Reports predicts the A5 and outgoing A4 will be more reliable than average new cars
FAQs
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References
- Autvex. (2025). Top 7 Best Audi Sedans Ranked. https://autvex.com/best-audi-sedan/
- Audi Louisville. (2025). Audi Lineup – All Audi Types & Models for 2025. https://www.audilouisville.com/en/audi-models/
- MotorTrend. (2025). 2025 Audi A5 First Drive: A Damn Fine Daily Driver. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2025-audi-a5-first-drive-review
- Car and Driver. (2025). 2026 Audi A5 Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/a5
- J.D. Power. (2025). 2025 Audi A5 Review: First Drive. https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2025-audi-a5-review-first-drive
- Consumer Reports. (2025). 2025 Audi A5 Reliability. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a5/2025/reliability/
- IIHS. (2025). 2025 Audi A6 Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/a6-4-door-sedan/2025
- Driving.ca. (2025). 2025 Audi A6 vs 2025 Audi A3. https://driving.ca/car-comparisons/2025-audi-a6-vs-2025-audi-a3/
- YouTube – Auto Vibes. (2025). 2025 Audi A4 vs A6 vs A8. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ergEjYgATY0
- Consumer Reports. (2025). 2025 Audi A6 Reliability. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a6/2025/reliability/
- Edmunds. (2025). Audi A4 vs Audi A6 – Car Comparison. https://www.edmunds.com/car-comparisons/audi-a4-vs-audi-a6/
- Driving.ca. (2025). 2025 Audi A8 vs 2025 Audi A6. https://driving.ca/car-comparisons/2025-audi-a8-vs-2025-audi-a6/
- Audi St-Laurent. (2025). Audi 2025 Presentation and Prices. https://www.audistlaurent.ca/blog/2025/february/27/audi-presentation-and-prices.htm
- YallaMotor. (2025). 2025 Audi A3 Sportback Safety Ratings. https://www.yallamotor.com/en/news/2025-audi-a3-sportback-safety-ratings
- Consumer Reports. (2025). 2025 Audi A3 Reliability. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a3/2025/reliability/
- Consumer Reports. (2025). 2025 Audi A4 Reliability. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a4/2025/reliability/
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
