The Audi A5 Sportback Years To Avoid
We've rounded up three Audi A5 Sportback years to avoid. See which ones (and which A5 Sportback years are safe to buy used) so you can make a smart decision when it comes to used car shopping.
The Audi A5 Sportback brings a unique fusion in the automotive market, bridging the gap between sedans and hatchbacks. This sleek vehicle offers drivers the stylish profile of a coupe while retaining practical cargo space, making it an intriguing option for those seeking both form and function. With its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering up to 261 horsepower and standard Quattro all-wheel drive, the A5 Sportback is undoubtedly a capable competitor in the sports executive segment.
However, like any model with a production history, certain years of the A5 Sportback may present more challenges than others. For potential buyers and Audi enthusiasts, understanding which years to approach with caution can be the difference between a great ownership experience and buyer remorse. To help you navigate the used car market, we will walk you through the Audi A5 Sportback years to avoid due to reliability concerns.
Audi A5 vs. Audi A5 Sportback: Key Differences
Before we get into the Audi A5 Sportback years to avoid, let’s discuss the differences between the standard A5 and Sportback variants.
As such, the Audi A5 and A5 Sportback share many similarities but have key differences in their design and functionality. The standard A5 comes as a two-door coupe or convertible, emphasizing a sporty aesthetic and driving experience. In contrast, the A5 Sportback features a five-door liftback design, combining coupe-like styling with enhanced practicality.
Mechanically, these models are nearly identical. They share the same platform, engine options, transmissions, and Quattro all-wheel drive system. Both typically offer turbocharged four-cylinder engines and similar performance characteristics. However, minor differences exist due to the Sportback’s larger size. The Sportback has a longer wheelbase, which may result in slight adjustments to suspension tuning and potentially different brake specifications to accommodate its increased weight.
The main distinctions lie in their body styles, interior space, and cargo capacity. The Sportback offers more rear passenger room and increased cargo versatility due to its hatchback design. At the same time, the standard A5 maintains a more traditional coupe profile.
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Which Audi A5 Sportback Years to Avoid?
As mentioned, the Sportback is mechanically identical to the standard A5. As such, you can expect some A5 problems to carry over to the Sportback version. With that said, below are the Audi A5 Sportback years to avoid when buying used:
- 2018 Audi A5 Sportback
- 2019 Audi A5 Sportback
- 2020 Audi A5 Sportback
2018 Audi A5 Sportback
While the 2018 Audi A5 Sportback is not plagued by major mechanical failures, it presents several concerns for used car buyers based on several user complaints.
One significant problem is the rapid wear of tires, some becoming unsafe after just 13,000 miles. Safety concerns have also arisen due to malfunctioning electronic trunks that fail to stop closing when encountering resistance, leading to injuries.
Other reported issues include sun visors breaking off while driving, backup cameras randomly switching to graphic mode, and engine-related problems—these range from oil leaks and unexpected gear shifts to power loss and faulty thermostats and water pumps.
Despite Audi issuing technical service bulletins for some issues like oil leaks, the company has not offered warranty extensions or recalls. This lack of comprehensive manufacturer response, combined with the diverse array of reported problems, suggests that the 2018 A5 Sportback may have underlying issues that potential buyers should carefully consider before purchasing.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE AUDI A5 SPORTBACK
We round up several notable iterations to determine the most reliable Audi A5 Sportback year models and which ones to steer clear of.
2019 Audi A5 Sportback
Due to several reported issues, the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback raises red flags for pre-owned vehicle shoppers. Unlike its predecessor, which faced mostly minor problems, the 2019 model shows more serious concerns.
The Pre-Sense system is a major pain point. Multiple drivers have experienced unexpected braking in various scenarios, from highway driving to intersection turns. These incidents create dangerous situations, potentially causing accidents rather than preventing them.
Steering problems also plague this model year. Some owners report sudden power steering failure at highway speeds, turning a routine drive into a white-knuckle experience. This malfunction significantly affects vehicle control and is a major safety risk.
Suspension issues have been documented as well, with at least one case resulting in a crash. While not widespread, such problems hint at potential underlying weaknesses.
Given these reports of malfunctioning safety systems and critical mechanical components, we recommend prospective buyers should approach the 2019 A5 Sportback with caution.
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2020 Audi A5 Sportback
It’s worth mentioning that the 2020 Sportback is by no means an unreliable luxury sedan. However, it did receive several NHTSA complaints that used car buyers should be aware of.
For starters, multiple owners have reported issues with the MMI infotainment system, including frequent crashes, glitches, and unexpected shutdowns during driving. These problems can be particularly frustrating and potentially dangerous, as they may disable crucial functions like navigation and radio mid-journey.
Additionally, there have been complaints about electrical system malfunctions. Some users experienced a module failure, causing a loud, startling SOS alarm to sound every few minutes while driving, along with Bluetooth connectivity issues. This problem appears to be widespread, with dealerships reporting multiple affected vehicles.
The 2020 model has also been subject to four recalls, addressing concerns such as rear axle misalignment, disabled passenger airbags, broken rear axle lock nuts, and missing scuff protection on the rear light wiring harness. These recalls highlight potential safety risks, including increased crash risk due to tire wear or loss of vehicle control and compromised passenger safety in the event of an accident.
While Audi has issued recalls and attempted software updates to address some of these problems, many owners report persistent issues even after dealer interventions.
Which Audi A5 Sportback Years are Safe to Buy as Used?
The 2021 A5 Sportback shines as a solid choice for used car shoppers, boasting fewer complaints and recalls than its predecessors. Car and Driver’s 8.5⁄10 rating affirms its appeal. Audi’s updates for 2021 include a new 12-volt hybrid system and two engine options, each gaining 13 horsepower.
New standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay, lane-departure warning, and an integrated toll transponder enhance the driving experience. The A5 Sportback competes well against rivals like the BMW 4-series Gran Coupe and Kia Stinger.
All signs point to the 2021 Audi A5 Sportback as a reliable long-term choice for buyers.
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