CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 50
Average Price: Around £33,000

Audi RS5 (2017-2025) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Superb all-weather performance	Not the driver's car it could be
Practical Sportback model	Turbocharged engine is short on character
First-rate interior quality	Thumpy ride over poor surfaces

Quick Summary

The Audi RS5 (2017-2025) is a fast, secure, and handsome all-rounder that combines performance with everyday practicality. Powered by a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 444bhp, it delivers forceful straight-line acceleration and responsive power delivery. Available as both a two-door coupe and five-door Sportback hatchback, the RS5 offers genuine versatility. Its quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional all-weather stability and traction, whilst the cabin features high-grade materials, intuitive MMI infotainment, and a configurable Virtual Cockpit display. The squared-off 410-litre boot (465 litres in Sportback) is practical and easy to load.

Whilst the RS5 never quite reaches the dynamic heights of the BMW M4, it compensates with security, comfort, and civilised daily usability. The turbocharged V6 lacks the character of naturally-aspirated rivals, and the ride can feel thumpy over poor surfaces. However, for buyers prioritising all-weather capability, interior quality, and practicality over outright driver engagement, the RS5 slots seamlessly into most lives. Running costs are substantial, with fuel consumption typically in the low 20s under spirited driving, high insurance groups (42-47), and premium servicing costs, though Audi's fixed-price servicing plan offers some predictability.

Best for: Buyers seeking a fast, secure, and practical performance car with all-wheel-drive capability; those who value interior quality and everyday usability over pure driving dynamics; and those who appreciate the extra practicality of the Sportback variant.

Not ideal for: Keen drivers prioritising sharp handling and driver engagement; those seeking engine character and musicality; or budget-conscious buyers concerned about fuel consumption and running costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the RS5 if: You seek a fast, secure, and practical performance car with all-wheel-drive capability; you value interior quality and everyday usability over pure driving dynamics; or you appreciate the extra practicality of the Sportback variant.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise sharp handling and driver engagement, seek engine character and musicality, or are concerned about fuel consumption and running costs.

Competitive Position: The Audi RS5 (2017-2025) is a capable performance car that prioritises all-weather security and practicality over outright driver engagement. Whilst it doesn't match the BMW M4's dynamic prowess or the Mercedes-AMG C63's engine character, the RS5 distinguishes itself through quattro all-wheel drive, the practical Sportback option, and first-rate interior quality. For buyers valuing stability, comfort, and versatility in a high-performance package, the RS5 remains a compelling choice, though keen drivers may find more rewarding alternatives elsewhere.

Read our full Audi RS5 Review

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

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