A5 vs i4
The A5 and the i4 are aimed squarely at each other: same class, different badges. Think of these two as neighbors: the overlap is large and the gaps are few.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance i4 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance7.1
- Engine & Performance10.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The i4 has 67 hp more power
If total system output is one of your priorities, this settles it: the i4 leads clearly with 335 hp to the A5’s 268 hp. The i4’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The i4 has 22 lb-ft more torque
Slight advantage to the i4: 317 lb-ft compared with 295 lb-ft. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
i4 leads
No contest in engine & performance: the i4 is the stronger of the two. The i4 stands out with 67 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. Prioritize engine & performance, and the i4 is where you should land.
Total system output
A5: 268 hp i4: 335 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Torque
A5: 295 lb-ft i4: 317 lb-ft The i4’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
There’s little to choose between them when it comes to space & practicality. Treat space & practicality as common ground and look elsewhere for the deciding factor.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
In the off-road & towing category, the A5 and the i4 land in almost the same place. For off-road & towing, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Safety & Tech
This area doesn’t reduce to a single number. The table shows the safety & tech details for both, so you can judge what matters to you.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | A5 | i4 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 268 hp | 335 hp (winner) Most powerful in class |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 317 lb-ft (winner) Most torque in class |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch (S tronic) | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | RWD (xDrive AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | A5 | i4 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 26 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 22 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 31 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 318 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | A5 | i4 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | A5 | i4 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | A5 | i4 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the i4 if…
- you want more power (335 hp vs 268 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (317 lb-ft vs 295 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to BMW and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the A5 or the i4?
On the specs compared here, the i4 makes more sense for most buyers; the A5 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Two companies, two answers to the same question. That’s how I see the A5 from Audi and the i4 from BMW. I think the i4 makes its strongest case with 67 hp more power.
I’d steer the things a spec sheet can’t capture fans toward the A5 and engine & performance fans toward the i4.
My pick: the i4.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.