Used Audi RS5 for sale nearDarlington

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 60
Average Price: Around £32,000

Audi RS5 (2010-2015) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Extremely rapid, thanks to an engine borrowed from Lamborghini	Ruinously expensive to run
Good looking, if you prefer understatement to ostentation	Potential for pricey reliability problems
Four-wheel drive makes the RS5 a four-season express	Not as involving as a BMW M3

Quick Summary

The Audi RS5 mk1 is a seriously rapid performance coupe powered by a hand-built 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo. Producing 444bhp at 8,250rpm and 317lb ft of torque, it delivers a thrilling 0-62mph time of 4.6 seconds with a bombastic V8 soundtrack. The sophisticated chassis features quattro four-wheel drive with a 40:60 rear bias, torque vectoring, Dynamic Ride Control, and adaptive dampers, making it stable and easy to drive in all weather conditions. A facelift in late 2011 added external aggression and improved infotainment, whilst the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox provides seamless acceleration.

The RS5 offers a discreetly classy design that prioritises understatement over ostentation, with a well-appointed cabin featuring excellent fit and finish and an intuitive MMI infotainment system. However, running costs are wallet-wiltingly high, with fuel consumption around 20.7mpg in mixed driving, expensive servicing from £360 for interim services, and notoriously weak front brakes requiring replacement every 16,000 miles. Carbon build-up on intake valves can affect cars from 70,000 miles, and potential mechanical and electronic problems can be financially ruinous. For peace of mind, invest in a pre-purchase inspection and consider an aftermarket warranty.

Best for: Drivers with deep pockets seeking supercar pace in a discreetly classy package, those who value four-wheel drive capability, and buyers wanting a four-season high-performance express.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those concerned about running costs and reliability expenses, or drivers prioritising driver involvement over electronic sophistication.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RS5 if: You have deep pockets and seek supercar pace in a discreetly classy package, value four-wheel drive capability, or want a four-season high-performance express.

Consider alternatives if: You are budget-conscious, concerned about running costs and reliability expenses, or prioritise driver involvement over electronic sophistication.

Competitive Position: The Audi RS5 (2010-2015) is a formidable performance coupe offering supercar pace and sophisticated four-wheel drive handling. However, its wallet-wiltingly high running costs, potential for expensive reliability problems, and less involving driving experience compared to rivals like the BMW M3 mean it requires careful consideration. The BMW 3 Series F30 scores higher overall and offers better value, whilst the Jaguar F-Type provides an alternative performance option. For those with deep pockets willing to invest in a pre-purchase inspection and aftermarket warranty, the RS5 delivers an intoxicating V8 experience and discreet styling that turns mundane journeys into special occasions.

Read our full Audi RS5 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.