Introduction

In the 2012 to 2016 era, the Audi A5 was the market’s most complete compact executive coupe, its credentials emphasised by a package of improvements made to the first generation model five years into its production run.

Performance statistics, running costs, residual values, practicality – all of these were ruthlessly checked to improve upon standards set by rivals from Mercedes and BMW. It was a clinical approach. And not surprisingly, it produced a car that’s very difficult to fault. A very strong used buy.

What You Get

You have to be very familiar indeed with the looks of an A5 Coupe to notice the differences made to this revised post-2012 first generation model. Essentially, the changes made were all about bringing the styling into line with Audi’s more up to date design language, which meant a sharper-looking set of wedgy A6-style headlamps that on most UK models were surrounded by the LED strip daytime running lights fitted to S line and top of the range models. There was also a cleaner-looking single-frame front grille, as well as tweaks to the front bumper and the bonnet. The more angular tail lights were re-styled too and used brighter LED technology.

What To Look For

As a whole, Audi A5 Coupe owners seem to be a pretty satisfied lot, though we did come across a few issues in our survey. Most seemed to relate to electrical problems. A number of owners have experienced issues with the electric window mechanism, so check that. One owner had a problem with the MMI infotainment system failing; another found dashboard rattles – and particular issues with rattly speakers.

As for mechanical stuff, well, corrosion is simply not an issue with Audis and another reason why resale values are high. Look for a fully stamped up service history and look for uneven tyre wear on the more powerful models.

Overall

The Audi A5 Coupe may not be the sportiest or the most prestigiously-badged compact executive sports coupe you can buy but the sales figures from new suggested that it was the one that most customers in this segment would rather have. It’s very smart. Very cool. And very Audi.