Since 1909, Audi has produced decades of impressive luxury vehicles. We review key specs & updates over recent years to find the best-used options. We review key specs & updates over recent years to find the best-used options. Show
Finding the right used car can be a challenging endeavor. Step one usually involves narrowing your search based on size and price. Even once you’ve chosen a few options across a few brands, there is still a lot to do. Just slogging through the hundreds, maybe thousands, of trim, option, feature, and color combinations takes time. Then you have to factor in mileage, location, dealer reputation, and that’s all before you sit in the driver’s seat. At that stage you have to inspect the vehicle, hope it’s clean, and take a test drive. Fear not, we’re here to help. If your search has turned up some great options from German luxury manufacturer Audi, this article will guide you through the used Audi-buying process. Audi has a rich automotive heritage dating back to 1909 and has churned out decades of impressive vehicles. The company uses a fairly straightforward alphanumeric method to help identify their vehicles. Cars start with the letter “A” and sport utility vehicles start with “Q.” However, there are a few exceptions. If it starts with an “S,” it’s part of a sportier line, whereas “RS” is the top-spec performance model, similar to BMW’s “M” cars. Their two-door sports cars are outliers; the TT and R8 don’t exactly follow the set nomenclature. We can assist your search by highlighting key specs and changes over recent years. Of note, like many manufacturers, Audi has a Certified Pre-Owned program that covers five-year-old and newer vehicles with less than 60,000 miles, and we recommend taking a look to get that extra peace of mind. Audi SUVsThe SUV and crossover market is incredibly hot, and it has been for some time. The American market in particular has taken a liking to the additional size and capability, to the point where almost all manufacturers offer a range of sizes for their SUV lineup. Audi is no different. From the subcompact Q3 to the full-size Q7, Audi has a size to fit just about anyone’s needs. While Audi started its SUV journey by producing the Q7 way back in 2005, we’ll guide you through the used Audi SUV lineup starting from smallest to largest. Audi Q3The subcompact Audi Q3 is a relatively new addition to the Audi lineup. The brand has continued to take their larger offerings and shrink the design by 20% each time to churn out a new smaller version. From a distance, it’s difficult to discern the Q3 from its larger Q5 sibling, but it is definitely smaller. At nearly eleven inches shorter than the Q5, the Q3 still packs a great mix of features and options. The Audi Q3 launched in 2015 with a turbocharged 2.0L inline four-cylinder with 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. You could choose from Premium Plus and Prestige trim, both with standard FWD and optional Quattro AWD. Interior quality is up to par with larger Audis, and you can find 48.2 cu. ft. of total cargo space. Pricing ranges from $15,942– $19,565 for 2015 model year Q3s. Now, we will run through the changes over the last five used-model years. Audi Q3: Tracking the ChangesFirst Generation
Second Generation
Audi Q3: ReliabilityFrom a reliability perspective, the jury isn’t quite in on the Q3 quite yet. Being a relatively new model, reliability raters like Repair Pal cite insufficient data to rate the Q3, but note that the average annual repair cost for all luxury compact SUVs is $859 per year. However, it’s worth noting that the Q3 uses a pretty ubiquitous engine that is found in tons of Volkswagen AG cars and SUVs. Audi Q3: The One to Buy…The 2019 Q3 is a great place to start. With a wide range of trim levels, from the base Premium to the top-spec S line Prestige, the redesigned second-generation 2019 Q3 is an improvement over the first-gen. version, with a more powerful engine, more aggressive looks, and a host of great features and options. Plus, with an average price of around $35,000, it’s a good value for the money. Audi Q5 & SQ5If you want a bit more size, check out the compact Audi Q5. For comparison, the 2018 Q5 is 2.4 inches wider, 2.7 inches taller, and 10.8 longer than the comparable 2018 Audi Q3. While both seat five passengers, the extra size translates into 26.8 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats (compared to 16.7 in the Q3). So, if you have an active lifestyle and need to haul around additional people or gear, the larger Q5 is a sweet spot in the Audi SUV lineup. The Q5 dates back to the 2009 model year, available in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trim levels. Pricing on those older Q5s is between $10,680 and $12,473. Newer models, like the 2015 Q5 feature standard Quattro all-wheel drive as standard and offer a choice of normal gasoline-powered, hybrid, diesel, and even a high-performance SQ5 version. Engines options included a 220 horsepower turbo 2.0L four-cylinder, a 272 horsepower supercharged 3.0L V6, a 240 horsepower 3.0L V6 diesel (2015-2016), a 245 horsepower turbo four-cylinder hybrid (2015-2016), and a 354 horsepower supercharged 3.0L V6. Audi Q5: Tracking the ChangesFirst Generation
Second Generation
Audi Q5: ReliabilityThe Audi Q5 has a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0 according to data from Repair Pal, which calculated the average annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Q5. Further, they tracked an average annual repair cost of $928, which means it was rated as having “poor” ownership costs. However, the good news is that while the frequency of repairs is rated as high, the likelihood of a severe issue is low, which may mean more frequent visits to fix minor issues. Audi Q5: The One to Buy…The 2018 Q5 is our pick if you are looking for a great used compact Audi SUV. The new second-gen Q5 was much lighter, but larger, than the outgoing first-gen. version. Add in more powerful engines and a host of upgrades on the interior, half a dozen trim levels, a starting price of around $31,369, and it’s the one to look for on the used market. Audi Q7The mid-size three-row Audi Q7 has been around for some time now, its first generation debuted back in 2005. That makes the Q7 the eldest sibling in the Audi SUV lineup, and it’s also the largest. With seating up to seven, it’s the one to look at if you plan to carry extra passengers. For comparison, the 2018 Q7 is a full 16 inches longer than a Q5 from the same 2018 model year. It’s also a few inches wider and taller, that means more passenger and cargo room compared to smaller Audi SUVs. Of note, like a lot of three-row SUVs, space behind the third row is minimal, just 14.8 cu. ft. That’s definitely small compared to the 26.8 cu. ft. of storage behind the rear seats in the Q5. Not a big deal if you plan to leave one, or both, of the rear seats folded, but if you have passengers plus stuff, the Q7 can get cramped. Regardless, it should definitely be a go-to option in the three-row luxury segment. The final year of the Q7’s first generation was the 2015 model year. You could choose between a supercharged 3.0L V6 producing 280 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (333 hp and 325 lb.-ft. in the S Line package), and a turbocharged 3.0L diesel V6 with 240 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft. of torque. Prices range from $19,928-$30,982 on the used market. Audi Q7: Tracking the ChangesSecond Generation
Audi Q7: ReliabilityThe Audi Q7 did face a recent recall that included 2018 through 2020 models manufactured between July 24, 2017, and March 5, 2020. The problem is that an improperly manufactured piece of interior trim may not provide enough padding to meet federal safety standards for head injury prevention in the event of a crash. However, the NHTSA reports that interior padding manufactured after April 2020 meets federal safety standards, and that the supplier that manufactured the faulty part has improved production monitoring to curtail the issue. The Q7’s successive model year seems to have fared better, with the U.S. News & Word Report giving the 2021 Audi Q7 a score of 8.1 out of 10 within the Luxury Midsize SUV market, based on its evaluation of 23 pieces of research. And Hot Cars calls it the “possibly best vehicle Audi sells.” Audi Q7: The One to Buy…The 2017 Q7 is our pick for a great three-row luxury option in the used market. Like the Q5, progress during its second generation update was significant. The drastically lighter platform means it’s more economical, even the V6 gets a decent EPA-rated 19/25 mpg city/highway for the six-cylinder engine. Plus, the entry-level prices of just under $32,500 means you’ll get a lot of Q7 for the money. Audi Q8The Audi Q8 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV coupé based on the same platform as the Q7. Launched in 2019, the sloping rear gives the two-row Q8 a sportier look than the average SUV. The wheelbase is identical to the Q7, but the overall length is about three inches shorter. The only engine is a 3.0L turbocharged V6 from the Q7. Also making 335 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque, it is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes with standard AWD. Trim levels include Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Prices range from $56,019-$75,343. Audi Q8: Tracking the Changes
Audi Q8: ReliabilityThe Q8 is noted as too new to have sufficient data for reliability ratings, however, it is worth noting that it is nearly identical mechanically to the Audi Q7. Audi Q8: The One to Buy…Options are limited on this one from a model year perspective. However, if you want a mid-size luxury SUV with a bit more style, and are OK with a little less interior room, the Q8 is pretty cool. Audi CarsWhile some have postulated that the crossover craze is a death blow to the car, Audi would beg to differ. They have been expanding their sedan, coupe, and convertible lineup. Audi’s sleek and sporty S5 Sportback proves there is still a lot to love in the non-SUV Audi market. Much like the crossover lineup above, the sedan lineup is alphanumerically easy to follow. So, whether you opt for the A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, and A8 (plus their S and RS performance variants), or the two-seat TT and R8, you’re going to get a great mix of luxury and performance. Audi A3, S3 & RS 3Audi’s smallest car, the Audi A3 is also one of the least expensive ways to get into the luxury sedan market. The diminutive “3” technically seats five in its subcompact layout, but it will be a bit tight. Still, if you are looking for a legitimate luxury car interior in a small car, the A3, and it’s performance variants (S3 and RS3) are a great option to look at on the used market. You can even find convertible variants, which is pretty cool. A new generation is slated for 2022 or so, but the current third-generation car has a lot to love. The 2015 A3 comes in a base FWD version, powered by a turbocharged 1.8L with 170 horsepower, or you can opt for the AWD 220 horsepower 2.0L version. If you need even more power, a 292 horsepower 2.0L is available in the Audi S3. Prices range from $14,545-$27,982 for the A3 and $20,473-$24,062 for the S3. Audi A3, S3 & RS 3: Tracking the ChangesThird Generation
Audi A3, S3 & RS 3: ReliabilityThe Audi A3 gets a Repair Pal reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 4th out of 17 for luxury compact cars. It is ranked as “average” with regard to ownership costs with the average annual repair cost of $741. The severity of repairs is “low” while frequency of those issues is “average”, so major issues are not all that common for the A3. The S3 and RS 3 were not rated by Repair Pal. Audi A3, S3 & RS 3: The One to Buy…The RS 3 is an amazing car, we’ve spent some time behind the wheel and the turbo 2.5L five-cylinder is an absolute treat. However, the S3 delivers the sweet spot between sport and luxury. Take a peek at the 2018 Audi S3 and you’ll find an average price of $34,947. Even the base Premium Plus trim is quite well equipped. That’s a lot of car for the cash, and the 292 horsepower engine is more than enough to get the 3461-pound car moving quite well. Audi A4, S4 & RS 4The Audi A4, and its performance variants, are listed as a “compact executive sedan”, but over the years it has continued to get larger. The most recent update was for 2016, where the A4 comes with a 188 horsepower turbo-four and seven-speed automatic transmission. You can also opt for an optional 252 horsepower version. The A4 sells in sedan layout in higher numbers, but also comes in “Avant” wagon format, as well as “Allroad” lifted-wagon format. Prices range from $26,336-$37,069 for newer 2018 models, which is a solid option in the luxury car segment. If you want more performance, look at the S4. The 2017 and newer models feature a great 354 horsepower 3.0L turbo six-cylinder engine with pricing on the 2018 model hitting the $40,677-$47,810 mark. For max power, check out the Audi RS 4. You’ll have to go back to older models, for example, the 2008 model year came with a 4.2L V8 with 420 horsepower. Prices range from $18,988-$24,667 if you are brave enough to take on a 13-year-old performance car. Audi A4, S4 & RS 4: Tracking the ChangesFifth Generation
Audi A4, S4 & RS 4: ReliabilityLike the A3, the Audi A4 scored a Repair Pal reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which means it ranks 14th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. They go on to note that the average annual repair cost is $739 which means it has “average” ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both rated at “average” when compared with all other vehicles. Meanwhile, the S4 nets a Repair Pal reliability rating of 2.0 out of 5.0, with frequency and severity note as higher than average. Audi A4, S4, & RS 4: The One to Buy…The sweet spot for the Audi A4 on the used market is the 2018 model. With new standard features like heated seats, it’s practical, comfortable, and sophisticated. Plus, with an average used price of just over $31,700, it’s a great place to start for your luxury sedan and wagon needs. Audi A5, S5 & RS 5The Audi A5, S5, and RS 6 first debuted in two-door coupe and convertible layouts which continue to this day. The first generation ran for an impressive nine years (2007–2017). The 2017 A5 came with a base 220 horsepower 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. You could also opt for a 3.0L turbo V6 rated at 333 horsepower in the S5, or a crazy 2.9L twin-turbo V6 with an impressive 450 horsepower in the top-spec RS 5 (2018+). Audi A5, S5 & RS 5: Tracking the ChangesSecond Generation
Audi A5, S5 & RS 5: ReliabilityThe A5 does not have a Repair Pal rating, however it shares its engines with most of the similar-sized Audi vehicles. The Audi S5, unfortunately, nets a Repair Pal reliability rating of just 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks 30th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is noted as $1,164, which means it has “poor” ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both higher than the average vehicle. The RS 5 was not rated. Audi A5, S5 & RS 5: The One to Buy…Once again, the 2018 A5 iteration is a great spot to start. The fantastic mix of layouts, including coupe, convertible, and (the new for 2018) four-door Sportback definitely has something for everyone. Plus, with A5 models ranging from $31,237-$42,970, S5 models ranging from $43,688-$53,724, and a hefty $61,990-$66,675 for the RS 5 there is a little something for everyone. There’s a reason it made it to the top of our “Best Audi Car” list! Audi A6 & S6The Audi A6 is a midsize “executive car” that dates back to the mid-1990s. The fourth-generation (2011-2018) is powered by a 252 horsepower 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, or an optional 3.0L supercharged V6 with 340 horsepower (standard on the Prestige trim for 2018). Performance-minded buyers should definitely check out the S6. The fourth-generation (2012–2018) S6 came equipped with a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 pumping out a stout 450 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft. of torque. There is even a RS 6, though U.S. market buyers can only really choose from the 2003 model (prices range from $9,223-$10,984) or the new six-figure 2021 wagon iteration. Audi A6 & S6: Tracking the ChangeFourth Generation
Fifth Generation
Audi A6 & S6: ReliabilityThe Audi A6 scored a Repair Pal reliability rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it a fairly impressive 8th out of 30 for luxury full-size cars. They went on to note, however, that the average annual repair cost is $913 which is rated as “poor” for ownership costs. Of note, the severity of repairs is “average”, and major issues are less frequent than average, so major repairs are not very common for the A6. Audi A6 & S6: The One to Buy…The latest 2019 and newer A6 has a lot of great updates and is the one to get if you have the cash. With a robust slate of engines, features, and options, it’s pretty impressive. However, with an average used price of $50,755.50, it’s not cheap. So the 2017–2018 A6 model years are still great to consider and come with everything you’d expect in a big Audi sedan. Audi A7, S7 & RS 7If you want the cool coupe-like profile, but need a larger midsize luxury car, check out the Audi A7, S7, and RS 7. Originally conceptualized as the “fastback” version of the Audi A6, the A7 is also referred to as a sportback, and is based on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform. It first went on sale as a 2012 model year vehicles. A more modern 2017 A7 will run you around $35,579-$44,138, and comes in Premium Plus, Prestige, and Competition Prestige trim levels. Just like the other sedans in the used Audi lineup, the A7 has a robust performance-oriented side. The early first-generation Audi S7 (2013–2017) came with a 420 horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine, and pricing is in the range of $23,916-$26,545 for 2013 cars. The 2017 version had an upgraded 450 horsepower, and pricing is in the range of $48,290-$54,947. The impressive RS 7 (2014–2018) is a top-range performance super-sedan. Audi A7, S7 & RS 7: Tracking the ChangesFirst Generation
Second Generation
Audi A7, S7 & RS 7: ReliabilityAccording to Repair Pal, the annual maintenance cost of an Audi A7 is $1,251. There were no ratings for frequency or severity and the S7 and RS 7 were not rated due to insufficient data. Audi A7, S7 & RS 7: The One to Buy…Honestly, you can’t go wrong with an A7. The coupe-like sedan is subjectively one of the prettiest cars in the segment. If you can pony up the cash, the second generation 2019 model adds a lot of great features, however the final couple of years for the first-gen car (2017 and 2018) are still quite good and have a more attainable starting price, even on the Certified Pre-Owned used market. Audi A8 & S8The Audi A8 sits at the top of the Audi range and you can choose between the standard length version or the “L,” which stands for “long-wheelbase.” The A8 is a true full-size executive sedan. If you are looking for a modern used A8, the third generation was produced from 2009–2017 and has a host of great features and options. For a good used market deal, the end of that generation has a great mix of content and price. The 2017 A8 came with a standard 3.0 TFSI six-cylinder 333 horsepower engine, or you could opt for a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 good for 450 horsepower and 444 lb.-ft. of torque. Average prices for 2017 A8 are $42,320-$47,683. You can’t get “RS 8” but if you want a fast full-size sedan, check out the Audi S8. The 2016 model, part of the second generation, is another sweet spot for price and performance. Powered by a 4.0L twin-turbo V-8 with 520 horsepower and 481 lb.-ft. of torque, and utilizing an eight-speed automatic transmission, the A8 can truly allow you to arrive in style. Prices range from $47,238-$53,534 for the 2016 S8. Audi A8 & S8: Tracking the ChangesThird Generation
Fourth Generation
Audi A8 & S8: ReliabilityThe A8 and S8 do not have a specific Repair Pal rating, however the average Reliability Rating for luxury full-size cars is 2.5 out of 5.0 (which is average), and luxury full-size cars cost on average $976 per year. Audi A8 & S8: The One to Buy…The A8 and S8 are quite pricey, however, the tail end of the first generation is a great place to start. Even the base trim for 2018 comes with loads of standard equipment and starts at just over $43,500 on the used market! Audi TT, TTS & TT RSThe Audi TT and was first produced between 1998-2006. Quick trivia, the name TT is derived from the British Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) motorcycle race. The most recent TT has been produced from 2014 to the present, and you can find it in a four-seat coupe, or two-seat convertible layout. Take a look at the 2017 and newer TT which included a standard 220 horsepower 2.0L turbo four-cylinder for the TT, a 292 horsepower, and 280 lb.-ft. option in the TTS, and finally the impressive turbo-five cylinder powered TT RS with 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. of torque. Audi TT, TTS & TT RS: Tracking the ChangesThird Generation
Audi TT, TTS & TT RS: Reliability“The Audi TT is more likely to last over 150,000 miles,” declared I See Cars in 2019, when the vehicle landed in the top spot of its list of “Longest-Lasting Sports Cars.” iSeeCars also examined the list to determine the longest-lasting sports cars. Audi TT, TTS & TT RS: The One to Buy…A solid option is the 2018 model, which features the perfect mix of offerings from a price and packaging perspective across the TT range. Prices range from $37,009 for the TT to $61,217 for the amazing TT RS, with the mid-range TT S nestled in between. Audi R8The Audi R8 is billed as a supercar for everyday use. The first-generation R8 was available with either a V8 or V10 engine and was sold between 2008 and 2015. In 2016, Audi added a convertible “Spyder” model. R8 ownership isn’t cheap, even a 2008 model will go for between $109,000-$118,000. Still, it’s quite a machine. Audi R8: Tracking the ChangesFirst Generation
Second Generation
Audi R8: ReliabilityAccording to What Car, owners report good reliability for the R8. But there is a specific warning that replacement parts are rather pricey. Always get a pre-purchase inspection when buying used. Audi R8: The One to Buy…Well, that depends on your budget. It’s a pretty amazing car, regardless of year or trim. Audi e-TronWe close out this Best Used Audi buyer’s guide with something a bit different, the Audi e-Tron. It is a fully-electric mid-size luxury crossover first sold for the 2019 model year. Audi e-Tron: Tracking the ChangesFirst Generation
Audi e-Tron: ReliabilityThe e-Tron is a bit too new, and a bit complex, to assess reliability at this point. Audi e-Tron: The One to Buy…The jury is still out on this one since the e-Tron is still so new. The packing is quite attractive, although the maximum range of 204 miles on battery-only for the 2019 model isn’t quite as good as some of the competitors. The Best Used Audi Overall…At the risk of saying “it depends,” the best used Audi is going to be the one that best fits your budget and needs. Looking across both of the Audi SUV and Audi car segments, there are some sweet spots with regard to size, packaging, and price. For the SUV buyer, the Audi Q5 delivers a great example of the “Goldilocks principle”: Q3 too small? Q7 too big? Well, then check out the Q5, it’s just right. On the car side of the house, anything with the Sportback layout is a fantastic option for those looking for style and practicality. While you sacrifice a bit of headroom in the rear, the added utility of having a hatchback with extra space in the back more than makes up for it. Plus, they are devastatingly pretty for a four-door. Audi sells the A5, S5, RS 5, A7, S7, RS 7, and even the SQ 5 in Sportback layout. They are definitely ones to take a look at on the used market. Regardless of your purchase, you should very much consider the Certified Pre-Owned program. Almost all of the vehicles described above can be found in the CPO program that features a 300-plus point dealer inspection and seems worth the extra cash. Which Audi are most reliable?Also, it's the most reliable Audi you can buy. The A3 got an impressive 93.6% reliability rating in the What Car? reliability study, outclassing the Volvo V40, Ford Focus, and even the Honda Civic. While the A3 offers better reliability than other Audis, it does have few widely known problems.
Which Audi lasts the longest?The Audi Allroad will last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. The Audi e-tron will last between 300,000 and 400,000 miles. The Audi e-tron GT will last between 300,000 and 400,000 miles.
Which Audi engines are most reliable?Because Volkswagen owns Audi, the two brands often share engines. And as with used Volkswagens, the 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines tend to be the most reliable.
Are any Audi cars reliable?In the past 25 years, each of its models have had around 20 owner-reported issues every year. As such, Audi could be seen as a dependable car brand. Coupled with this has been multiple reliability reports, the majority of which have highlighted some of the brand's models.
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Which audi model is the most reliable
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