Audi A3 vs Audi A5

For just a little more money, you can trade the 2025 Audi A3 sedan’s superior performance, nimbler handling, and better fuel economy for the Audi Q3 crossover SUV’s additional interior room, cargo space, and ride height. It’s a deal most people make; Audi sells over three times the number of Q3s that it does A3s. Perhaps changes to the refreshed 2025 A3, including the newly standard Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and additional standard features, will sway more Audi customers toward the sedan.

Verdict: Small, speedy cars like the 2025 Audi A3 are a lot fun. While you can upgrade performance with the Audi S3 or RS 3 models, the standard A3 equipped with the Black Optic Package is a delightful companion on any twisty road. Quality materials, modern tech, and practical packaging make it even better.

The redesigned 2025 Audi A5 compact luxury car takes on a more important role in the luxury brand’s lineup. The coupe and convertible body styles are gone, leaving only a five-door hatchback akin to the previous-generation A5 Sportback (Europe gets an A5 Avant wagon as well). That model also happened to be Audi’s bestselling non-SUV in 2024, so the new A5 also replaces the slower-selling A4 sedan as Audi’s answer to the Alfa Romeo Giulia, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac CT4, Genesis G70, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus IS.

Verdict: The new Audi A5 impresses with tech, handling poise, and practicality, but represents a significant effective price increase for returning Audi customers.