Brand new generation launched late 2024 on Audi's PPC platform. The 35 TFSI uses the EA888 evo5 engine with MHEV+ mild hybrid for partial electric driving. Early adopters report software glitches, ADAS instability, and isolated stalling issues. Long-term reliability unknown.· more· less

Updated EA888 evo5 engine MHEV+ improves efficiency

Software/ADAS issues reported Unknown long-term reliability

Buy if: You want the latest Audi tech and accept the risks of an unproven first-year platform.

Avoid if: You prefer proven reliability or rely heavily on driver-assistance systems.

Maintenance costs

€750 - €1,450/year

15,000 km/year

Fixed costs

€450-850

Risk buffer

€300-600

Buying a used Audi A5? Check its history.

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Common Problems

ECU and software glitches

€0 - 8001 of 4

Voltage drops trigger cascading error messages and warning lights · more· less

Early B10 owners report cascading error messages from minor voltage fluctuations, including brake system, TPMS, and airbag warnings. Most are resolved with software updates under warranty. Out-of-warranty diagnosis can run €200-800.

ADAS driver assistance failures

€0 - 1,2002 of 4

Driver-assistance suite intermittently disables itself, especially in rain · more· less

Multiple owners report 'driver assistance unavailable' warnings and full ADAS dropouts triggered by light moisture. Sensor calibration and module replacements are warranty items now but expensive later. Calibration alone is €200-400.

MHEV+ 48V system faults

€500 - 2,5003 of 4

New second-gen mild hybrid system unproven long-term · more· less

The MHEV+ system adds a powertrain generator on the gearbox output shaft. It is brand new technology with no long-term failure data. 48V battery replacements on similar Audi systems run €800-1,500; generator faults could be more.

Engine stalling at low speed

€0 - 1,0004 of 4

Isolated reports of engine cutting out shortly after delivery · more· less

A small number of owners report sudden stalls within the first weeks of ownership. Cause appears software-related and covered under warranty. Verify any TSBs have been applied before purchase.

First-year platform with unresolved software issues

The B10 is too new for definitive reliability data. Early owner reports suggest software and ADAS issues that Audi is addressing via updates. The EA888 evo5 engine itself is a known quantity, but the wider electrical architecture and MHEV+ system need time to prove themselves.

Buying a used Audi A5? Check its history.

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Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

General checks

Service history
Verify Audi dealer service records and any software update history.
Tires
Check tread depth, age, and uneven wear patterns.
Cold start
Listen for any unusual sounds and watch for warning lights on the dash.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds and ADAS function checks.

Specific for this vehicle

Check for active TSBs and software updates
Have Audi confirm all current software updates have been applied to this VIN.
Test all driver-assistance systems
Verify lane assist, adaptive cruise, and parking sensors work reliably in different conditions.
Watch for warning light cascades
Multiple unrelated warnings appearing together can indicate ECU voltage faults.

+ 2 more checksShow less

Test MHEV+ behavior
Confirm smooth start-stop transitions and partial electric coasting at low speeds.
Verify warranty status and remaining coverage
All B10s should still be within Audi's 2-year factory warranty.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

Service bulletin: remote key LED not flashing (Nov 2024) Verify if applicable

Contact an Audi dealer with the VIN to verify all software updates and any open TSBs have been completed. This is critical for B10 models given early software issues.

Warranty Status

Factory warranty (2 years) Active on most B10 cars

MHEV+ 48V battery Typically 8 years / 160,000 km

Most B10 A5s are still within Audi's 2-year factory warranty. Extended warranty highly recommended given first-year platform risks.

↔ Also consider

Audi A5 B9 2.0 TFSI 2016-2024

Previous generation, proven reliability. Lacks B10's software gremlins and ADAS instability.

Audi A4 B9 2.0 TFSI 2015-2023

Same EA888 family but older evo3/4. More mature platform with known issues mapped out.

BMW 320i G20 2019-present

Direct competitor with B48 engine. More established platform, fewer software complaints.

Mercedes C 200 W206 2021-present

Audi A3 8Y 35 TFSI 2020-present

Smaller A3 with same engine family. Lower running costs, simpler tech package.

This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.