Following a 2025 redesign that phased out traditional coupes and convertibles, the 2026 Audi A5 and S5 lineups are now simplified to a single, four-door liftback sedan body style, solidifying the four-door liftback (a hatchback but marketed as a sedan) as the sole option for both the A5 and the sportier S5. For the 2026 model year, the Audi A5 and S5 are redesigned models, not carryovers. They represent the new generation and replace both the previous A4 sedan and A5 Sportback, consolidating the lineup into a single Sportback (hatchback) body style.

For 2026, the Audi A5 family undergoes a significant evolution, merging the previous A4 sedan and A5 Sportback into a single, highly capable lineup. The standard Audi A5 is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 268 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft of torque. This powertrain is exclusively paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's signature quattro all-wheel-drive system, providing a refined and responsive driving experience.

For those seeking enhanced performance, the 2026 Audi S5 upgrades to a robust 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine. This sportier variant produces 362 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.3 seconds. Like the base A5, the S5 features a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard quattro all-wheel drive, ensuring maximum traction and precision across various driving conditions.

The 2026 Audi A5 (and S5) for the U.S. market is offered in three distinct trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige.

The Premium comes comprehensively equipped with a host of standard features. Exterior highlights include 18-inch aluminum wheels, a panoramic sunroof, power-folding and auto-dimming heated side mirrors, LED headlights, daytime running, fog lights and brake lights, auto high-beam, and a dual chrome exhaust system. Inside, occupants benefit from standard amenities such as leather upholstery, 8-way power-adjustable heated front seats with 4-way power lumbar support, driver's seat memory settings, dual-zone automatic climate control, and customizable ambient interior lighting. Technological features are abundant, featuring a 14.5-inch central touchscreen display and an 11.9-inch configurable digital gauge cluster. The vehicle offers seamless connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a mobile hotspot, wireless device charging, and four USB ports. An integrated navigation system with voice activation and a built-in virtual assistant are also standard. For convenience, the Premium models include keyless entry with push-button start, adaptive cruise control with traffic stop-and-go functionality, a surround view camera system, and rain-detecting wipers. The audio system features 10 speakers, and practical elements like eight beverage holders, and a power tilt-and-telescoping leather steering wheel.

The S5 Premium offers significant performance and comfort upgrades over the standard A5 model, centered around a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine. Key enhancements include 19-inch aluminum wheels, an electro-mechanical limited-slip differential for improved handling, and supportive sport bucket seats. The front seats are further upgraded with 10-way power adjustability and heating for enhanced comfort.

Standard safety features include forward and rear collision mitigation, front/rear/side parking sensors, active lane departure, front pedestrian detection system, blind spot warning, eight airbags, hill hold control, adaptive cruise control with traffic stop-go, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control, front cross traffic warning, low tire pressure warning system (tire specific), and a traffic sign information system.

While Audi officially markets the 2026 A5 as a sedan, it features a sophisticated liftback design with a wide-opening rear hatch that offers superior cargo accessibility. This transition marks a significant shift in Audi's lineup, blending the classic proportions of a premium sedan with the versatility of a hatchback.

As Audi's primary contenders in the compact luxury segment, the A5 and S5 are engineered to compete directly with the BMW 3 Series, 4 Series Gran Coupe, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The performance-oriented S5 now boasts a more potent 362-hp turbocharged V6, positioning it as a formidable rival to the BMW M340i and Mercedes-AMG C 43. By combining standard quattro all-wheel drive with a high-tech, integrated interior, the 2026 A5 family provides a unique balance of utility and sportiness that distinguishes it from its traditional German and luxury rivals.

Well-proportioned exterior styling; premium interior craftsmanship; advanced digital technology interface; responsive and efficient powertrains; precise Quattro all-wheel drive system; practical sportback configuration