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].
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.
| 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 |
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].
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].
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].
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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].
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].
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].
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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].
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].
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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].
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].
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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].
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].
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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].
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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].
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].
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].
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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.
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