Picking the best Audi is a bit like trying to choose your favourite track on a classic album; they're all good, but for different reasons. For decades, the German brand with the four rings has built a reputation on three key pillars: premium quality, cutting-edge technology, and sharp, understated design. Whether you’re after a practical family SUV, a comfortable executive cruiser, or a head-turning supercar, Audi has an option.
The line-up stretches from the compact Q3 all the way to the jaw-dropping R8, a V10-powered supercar you could genuinely use every day. In between, you'll find a host of brilliant estate cars (or 'Avants' in Audi-speak), sleek electric flagships, and stylish sports coupes. In this guide, we’ve sifted through the entire range to bring you the very best of the best.
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent what we rate as the best options currently available on the new and used market. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
The Best Audi Cars and SUVs 2026
- 2026 Audi Q7
- 2026 Audi A5
- 2026 Audi Q5
- 2014-2023 Audi TT
- 2026 Audi Q3
- 2026 Audi A6 Avant
- 2020-2025 Audi RS6 Avant
- 2026 Audi e-tron GT
- 2026 Audi A6 e-tron
- 2016-2024 Audi R8
1. 2026 Audi Q7
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Serene ride on air suspension | Strong resale values make used examples expensive |
| Beautifully made and practical interior | Third row not as roomy as a Land Rover Discovery's |
| SQ7 is very fast indeed | Styling looks a bit awkward |
As Audi's flagship seven-seat SUV, the Q7 is a benchmark for anyone needing a luxurious, spacious, and high-tech family wagon. This second-generation model, which arrived in 2015, was a huge leap forward from its predecessor. The biggest news was that it went on a serious diet, shedding around 240kg. This made the Q7 feel much more agile and responsive, transforming it from a bit of a barge into a surprisingly nimble car for its size. It’s a direct rival to the Land Rover Discovery and Volvo XC90, and it makes a very good case for itself.
It's the Q7's practicality that really seals the deal. The interior is beautifully put together, with a quality of finish that feels every bit as premium as the badge on the grille suggests. There’s loads of room for adults in the first two rows, and while the rearmost seats are best for kids, they add a crucial layer of flexibility. Even with five seats up, you get a generous 780-litre boot (563-litre for the TFSI e plug-in hybrid). Fold them flat into the floor, and that expands to a van-like 1,908 litres. Better still, the middle row of seats can slide and recline individually, making the Q7 a superbly practical and versatile choice for any large family.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi Q7 is an excellent luxury SUV... It's a cracking car to drive and to travel in, and running costs are bearable considering the car's performance and size." - David Motton, contributor
2. 2026 Audi A5
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tech-focused interior | Not as sharp to drive as a BMW 3 Series |
| Wide range of powertrains including diesel | Digital displays might prove overwhelming |
| Covers long distances with ease | Too many functions rely on touchscreen |
The latest Audi A5 takes over from the much-loved A4 saloon and Avant. Confused? It's down to a since-ditched naming plan, but the important bit is this: the new A5 is a five-door hatchback (along with an estate, or 'Avant'), which gives it a neat practical advantage over saloon rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class. That big boot lid makes loading bulky items a doddle. You can get it with petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid power, and the high-tech interior is dominated by huge screens, though some might miss the simple physical buttons of old.
Where the A5 really comes into its own is on a long journey. It’s a supremely comfortable and efficient cruiser, especially the 201bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel. Thanks to a clever mild-hybrid system that can shut the engine off when coasting, it can return close to 50mpg in the real world. While it might not be quite as thrilling to drive on a winding road as a BMW 3 Series, the A5’s handling is precise and its ride is brilliantly controlled, striking a great balance between comfort and composure. The 445-litre boot is handy and there’s plenty of legroom in the back, making the A5 a very classy and capable family car.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The new Audi A5 successfully continues the A4's legacy while adding its own distinct character. The hatchback configuration offers some practical advantages, while the diesel powertrain and clever mild hybrid system deliver an impressive blend of performance and efficiency." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
3. 2026 Audi Q5
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sharp styling | Expensive to buy |
| Practical interior with lots of space | Complex infotainment system |
| Polished driving experience | Average warranty coverage |
The Audi Q5 is a cornerstone of the premium SUV market, and for good reason. It’s a smart, practical, and desirable choice for families wanting that upmarket badge without giving up on everyday usability. This latest generation builds on that strong foundation, offering a spacious and flexible interior that feels like a real step up from mainstream alternatives. You get a generous 520-litre boot, and on S line models and above, the rear seats slide back and forth, letting you choose between more legroom for passengers or extra luggage space. Even the swoopier Sportback model is still very practical, and the whole cabin feels solid and well-built, making it a lovely place to be on any journey.
Out on the road, the Q5 is every bit as polished as you’d hope. While a BMW X3 might feel a bit sharper on a twisty B-road, the Q5 excels at being a supremely refined and comfortable cruiser. The ride is wonderfully cosseting, especially if you choose a car with the optional air suspension, and the cabin is impressively quiet at speed. The engine range includes smooth 2.0-litre petrol and diesel options, the plug-in e-Hybrid (PHEV) with a full-electric range of 61 miles, and a range-topping 362bhp SQ5 that delivers serious performance. It all adds up to a car that feels like a proper premium product, easily justifying its place against a tough field of rivals.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi Q5 has always been a fairly predictable kind of car, and we mean that in a good way. Its practicality is predictably good; it looks predictably smart and stylish; and it's predictably polished to drive. The latest model (predictably perhaps) does nothing to change that." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
4. 2014-2023 Audi TT
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flagship TT RS rivals more expensive cars for performance | An Alpine A110 delivers a more exciting drive |
| Practical boot for a coupe | Only early examples were available with a manual gearbox |
| Post-2018 cars have generous standard equipment | Rear seats are a token gesture |
The Audi TT has been a style icon for years, and the (now discontinued) third-generation model is arguably the best-looking of the lot. It manages to blend head-turning sports car looks with a surprising dose of practicality, making it one of the easiest coupes to live with day-to-day. The minimalist interior is a masterclass in design, centred around Audi’s brilliant Virtual Cockpit digital display, which replaces traditional dials. And while the rear seats are tiny, the hatchback-style boot opens up to reveal a decent 305-litre space, making it far more usable than most of its direct rivals for a weekend away or the weekly shop.
It's not all style over substance, though. The TT is a genuinely fun and quick car to drive. Its TFSI petrol engines are smooth and responsive, and when you pair them with the optional quattro all-wheel-drive system, you get sure-footed performance whatever the weather. It might not be as raw and engaging as a Porsche 718 Cayman, but it strikes a fantastic balance between comfort and control, making it a superb long-distance cruiser. If you want ultimate thrills, the flagship TT RS model, with its characterful 395bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine, offers supercar-baiting pace in a compact and usable package.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Mk3 Audi TT may not be the most exciting sports car around but it compensates by being easy to live with, and not overly expensive to run. As a result, it’s a car that can be used daily without major grief and is still a gratifying and quick car to drive." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
5. 2026 Audi Q3
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.1 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Impressive touchscreen system | Small boot in PHEV model |
| Generous standard equipment | A BMW X1 is more fun to drive |
| Impressive EV range from plug-in hybrid version | Doesn't significantly move the game on from its predecessor |
The Audi Q3 has long been a hit with families looking for a premium compact SUV, and this latest version is set to continue that success. It goes head-to-head with big-name rivals like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, armed with a wide range of engines to suit just about anyone. The star of the show, however, is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model. It pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 268bhp and offers an official electric-only range of up to 73 miles. That’s a huge number, making it a brilliant option for company car drivers or anyone who can charge at home and wants to slash their daily running costs.
Practicality is key in a family SUV, and the Q3 mostly delivers. Its boot is a flexible 488 to 575 litres, depending on where you position the handy sliding rear seats, giving you plenty of room for buggies, shopping, or the family dog. While the PHEV’s battery does eat into that space (leaving 375 litres), many will find it a price worth paying for those ultra-low running costs. Inside, the cabin feels suitably upmarket, is packed with standard kit including a large touchscreen, and has plenty of room for passengers, making the Q3 a comfortable, versatile, and very desirable family car.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi Q3 is perfectly recommendable, with a good (and wide) range of engines including a plug-in hybrid, competent handling, and a reasonably spacious and practical interior that’s helped by its sliding rear seats." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
6. 2026 Audi A6 Avant
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low levels of wind and road noise | Boot is small by class standards |
| Lots of space for passengers | Interior quality not as good as previous A6 |
| Smart styling helps it to stand out | Limited engine range |
If you’re after a premium estate car that says you’ve ‘made it’ without shouting about it, the Audi A6 Avant has long been a top choice. It’s the kind of car that looks perfectly at home on any driveway, promising a high-quality interior, loads of passenger space, and a big boot for all of life's luggage. Taking on the formidable BMW 5 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, the A6 Avant aims to be the sophisticated, comfortable choice for buyers who need more space than a saloon but don't fancy a bulky SUV.
Get it on a long motorway run and the A6 Avant is in its element. It’s exceptionally quiet, with wind and road noise hushed to a mere whisper, making for a wonderfully relaxing cabin. The 201bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel is a great match for the car, offering plenty of punch, while the quattro all-wheel-drive system gives you confidence no matter the weather. Another great option is the e-Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a 20.7kWH battery and 63 mile range exclusively using electric power. There’s a catch, however. For a car whose main selling point is practicality, the A6 Avant’s boot is surprisingly tight. At just 503 litres (466 litres in the turbo diesel and 404 litres in the e-Hybrid), it’s smaller than its key rivals and even the previous-generation A6. It’s a strange own-goal in what is otherwise a very polished premium estate.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The A6 Avant looks great, has a generally slick interior, and is a smooth, quiet way of munching miles on the motorway." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
Read our full Audi A6 Avant review
7. 2020-2025 Audi RS6 Avant
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Staggering performance from twin-turbo V8 | Only available as an estate car |
| This RS6 is more agile than previous versions | A Mercedes-AMG E63 S is more rewarding to drive |
| Quattro four-wheel drive provides secure handling in all weathers | Running costs to rival a private jet's |
Is there a cooler car on the planet than the Audi RS6 Avant? We think not. It’s the original super-estate, a car that perfectly marries bonkers performance with everyday usability. This fourth-generation model continues that legacy, packing a mighty 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that pumps out a colossal 600bhp. That power is channelled to all four wheels through Audi’s quattro system, meaning you can actually use all that performance, almost whatever the weather. It's a recipe that gives you supercar-scaring acceleration in a car that can still do the weekly shop or a trip to the tip.
But the RS6 is more than just its thumping V8. It’s also a remarkably practical machine, with a huge 565-litre boot and spacious rear seats. This latest version is also the most fun to drive yet, thanks to some serious chassis upgrades. A clever rear differential and rear-wheel steering make it feel far sharper and more engaging than any RS6 before it. While the standard air suspension is comfortable, keen drivers should seek out cars with the optional ‘RS sports suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control’. This tightens up body control without ruining the ride, creating a truly dynamic and thrilling driving experience.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For a very long time, Audi’s performance estate cars had a reputation for being thunderously fast in a straight line and effortless to live with, but somewhat underwhelming to pedal along an inviting stretch of road. This RS6 puts that right – it’s substantially more rewarding to drive than the model it replaces." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Audi RS6 Avant review
8. 2026 Audi e-tron GT
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tremendous acceleration and satisfying handling | A Porsche Taycan is even better to drive |
| Long range and rapid charging ability | If practicality is a priority, the Tesla Model S has the edge |
| Better value than a Porsche Taycan | Two-speed 'box changes gear with a thump |
The Audi e-tron GT is a stunning, high-performance electric saloon that shares its advanced underpinnings with the brilliant Porsche Taycan. Every version gets a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup that delivers immense grip and frankly ludicrous acceleration. A 2024 update brought in a larger 105kWh battery, boosting the official range to over 386 miles and cementing its credentials as a fantastic long-distance tourer. With its low, muscular looks, the e-tron GT has serious road presence and is easily one of the most desirable electric cars on sale.
That sporty promise is fulfilled on the road. The standard air suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, soaking up bumps effortlessly while keeping the car's considerable weight in check through the corners. The result is a car that’s both a relaxing cruiser and a genuine thrill to drive. The performance is breathtaking; even the ‘standard’ model produces 496bhp and will hit 62mph from a standstill in just 4.1 seconds. And while its 405-litre boot isn't as big as a Tesla Model S's, you do get a useful 81-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet for storing charging cables, which is a neat practical touch.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi e-tron GT isn’t cheap but it is well equipped and comparably decent value as a used buy. More than that, it’s got the sort of interior lustre and dynamic ability that makes it feel well worth the high asking price with every smug mile that you drive." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Audi e-tron GT review
9. 2026 Audi A6 e-tron
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 44.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good to drive | Not cheap |
| Impressive range figures | Interior isn't as sumptuous as you might expect |
| Lots of tech | Rivals are more practical |
The Audi A6 e-tron sits on the same advanced 'PPE' platform as the electric Porsche Macan, which means it gets super-fast 800V charging – a huge bonus for long-distance drivers needing a quick top-up. But its real party trick is its range. With the larger 94.9kWh battery, the sleek Sportback model can officially travel up to a massive 464 miles on a single charge, putting it right at the top of the premium EV class. Inside, you're treated to a spacious, tech-heavy cabin dominated by a huge 14.5-inch curved screen, and there’s even a handy front boot for stashing your charging cables.
The good news continues on the road, because the A6 e-tron is brilliant to drive. It feels satisfyingly solid and predictable, blending comfort and control in a way that makes it a wonderfully unflappable and relaxing executive car for any trip. Even the entry-level 322bhp model is seriously quick, but the power is delivered smoothly and progressively, rather than with the brutal, instant kick some rivals have. This makes it fast but also accessible and enjoyable. It’s a refined, capable, and technologically advanced package that makes a very strong case for being one of the best large electric cars money can buy.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi A6 e-tron is a thoroughly slick executive offering. It’s lovely to drive, a pleasure to sit in, and although we think the boot should be a bit bigger it is otherwise very practical." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Audi A6 e-tron review
10. 2016-2024 Audi R8
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.8 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tremendous V10 engine delivers sound and fury | Lacks the exotic appeal of a Ferrari or Lamborghini |
| Choice of coupe and cabrio body styles | No manual gearbox option |
| Thrilling to drive, yet easy to live with | High running costs |
The star of the Audi R8 is, without a doubt, its engine. In an age of downsizing and turbocharging, its mid-mounted 5.2-litre V10 is a glorious, naturally-aspirated masterpiece. It delivers explosive power and a spine-tingling howl all the way to its 8,500rpm redline. For us, it’s one of the greatest engines ever made. But what makes the R8 so special is that it wraps this incredible performance in a truly complete package, with every element honed to near perfection. Thanks to its quattro all-wheel-drive system, it has epic levels of grip, giving you the confidence to enjoy its power, yet it is never anything less than truly exciting and involving to drive.
For a car with such performance, the R8 is also surprisingly usable. Its clever suspension gives it a comfortable ride, making it a genuinely capable long-distance tourer. Practicality is, as you’d expect, limited – the Coupe has a small 112-litre boot at the front. However, the Spyder (convertible) version is arguably the one to go for. You lose very little in terms of handling, but you gain the ability to drop the roof and fully immerse yourself in the glorious sound of that V10 engine. It’s an unforgettable experience.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Judged by any measure, the R8 is a truly exceptional piece of engineering, regardless of whether you’re drawn to the slinky Coupe or sunseeker Spyder. Both offer a truly engaging driving experience, underpinned by staggering performance and heralded by one of the most evocative soundtracks in motoring." - Pete Tullin, contributor
FAQs
Which is the best Audi for a family?
That depends on the size of your family and what you need. For a smaller family, the Q3 is a fantastic compact SUV, while the larger Q5 offers more space. If you need seven seats, the Q7 is one of the best large SUVs you can buy. Don't want an SUV? The A5 and A6 Avant (estate) models offer plenty of space with car-like handling.
What is the most reliable Audi model?
Modern Audis generally have a good reputation for reliability, provided they are well-maintained with a full service history. Models like the A4 (the predecessor to the new A5) and the Q5 often perform well in owner satisfaction and reliability surveys. As with any used car, getting a professional inspection and checking the service history are strongly advised.
Are Audis expensive to maintain?
As a premium brand, Audis typically have higher running costs than mainstream cars from Ford or Vauxhall. Servicing, parts, and insurance will likely all cost more. However, costs are comparable to rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Using a reputable independent specialist rather than a main dealer for servicing once the car is out of warranty can help to reduce maintenance bills.
What is Audi's 'e-tron' range?
'e-tron' is the name Audi gives to its all-electric and plug-in hybrid cars. The range is constantly growing and includes family SUVs like the Q4 e-tron and Q6 e-tron, as well as high-performance models like the A6 e-tron and the stunning e-tron GT grand tourer.
What's the difference between S line, S, and RS models?
It’s a three-tier system. 'S line' is a popular trim level that gives a standard Audi sportier looks (bigger wheels, different bumpers) without any performance upgrades. 'S' models are the next step up, offering a significant performance boost over the standard car (e.g., the S5 or SQ5). 'RS' models are the very top of the tree (e.g., the RS6 or R8). These are developed by Audi Sport and are laser-focused on performance.
Should I buy a petrol, diesel, or plug-in hybrid Audi?
This really depends on your driving habits. If you do a lot of motorway miles, a modern TDI diesel engine is still hard to beat for fuel economy. For a good all-round mix of town and country driving, a TFSI petrol is a great choice. If you're a company car driver or have a short commute and can charge at home, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) could slash your running costs by allowing you to drive on pure electric power for most daily journeys.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers - real owner experiences and current market value.
To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
*The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in January 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.*
