2025 Audi A5 vs 2026 Hyundai Elantra N
Comparison Overview
The 2025 Audi A5 arrives as a sophisticated AWD hatchback powerhouse, featuring 261 hp and an impressive 21.8 cu ft of cargo space, setting a benchmark for premium practicality starting at $48,400. Contrasting this is the thrilling 2026 Hyundai Elantra N, a focused, high-energy FWD sedan delivering 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, accessible for just $35,100. While the Audi offers superior fuel economy at 26 combined MPG and the convenience of an automated manual transmission, the Elantra N tempts with 15 more horsepower and a raw 6-speed manual option. The $13,300 price gap highlights a clear divergence: the A5 for refined all-weather performance, and the Elantra N for pure, track-ready engagement on a budget.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Audi A5
The Audi A5 offers a better combined MPG rating of 26 and the stability of standard all-wheel drive, making it more relaxed for daily driving.
2025 Audi A5
The Audi A5 hatchback boasts significantly more utility with 21.8 cu ft of cargo capacity compared to the Elantra N's 14.2 cu ft.
2026 Hyundai Elantra N
The Elantra N delivers higher peak output with 276 hp and 289 lb-ft, paired with a traditional 6-speed manual transmission for superior driver connection.
2026 Hyundai Elantra N
The Hyundai Elantra N provides superior performance metrics, including higher horsepower, for a compelling $13,300 lower MSRP.
Choose the Audi A5 if...
- You prioritize the security and stability of an all-wheel drive system.
- You need maximum usable space, benefiting from the A5's 21.8 cu ft hatchback cargo area.
- You prefer a refined driving experience with a 7-speed automated manual transmission and better fuel economy (23/32 MPG split).
Choose the Hyundai Elantra N if...
- You demand the most aggressive performance numbers, leveraging 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque.
- A true driver-focused experience is key, featuring a mandatory 6-speed manual transmission.
- Budget is a primary concern, as the Elantra N undercuts the A5 by $13,300 while offering more power.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Audi A5 | Hyundai Elantra N |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 187.2" | 185.4" |
| Width | 72.6" | 71.9" |
| Height | 54.6" | 55.7" |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.1" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Lane Departure Warning | β | β |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | β | β |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | β | β |
| Post-Collision Safety System | β | β |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | β | β |
| Front Head Airbags | β | β |
| Rear Head Airbags | β | β |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | β | β |
| Electronic Stability Control | β | β |
| Traction Control System | β | β |
| LATCH System | β | β |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | β | β |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | β | β |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | β | β |
| Brake Assist | β | β |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | β | β |
| Automatic Headlights | β | β |
| Headlight Delay-Off | β | β |
| LED Headlights | β | β |
| Daytime Running Lights | β | β |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | β | β |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | β | β |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | β | β |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | β | β |
| Engine Immobilizer | β | β |
| Blind Spot Monitor | β | β |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | β | β |
| Driver Attention Alert | β | β |
| Front Integrated Headrests | β | β |
| Rear Fixed Headrests | β | β |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | β | β |
Engine
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | gas |
| Horsepower | 261 hp @ 6300 rpm | 276 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm | 289 lb-ft @ 2100 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | β | β |
Drive Train
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | front wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | β |
| Front Differential Type | β | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (recommended) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 23/32 MPG | 21/29 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 26 MPG | 24 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 351.9/489.6 mi. | 260.4/359.6 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.3 gal. | 12.4 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | β | β |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | β | β |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | β | β |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | β | β |
| Electric Power Steering | β | β |
| Rear View Camera | β | β |
| Front Parking Sensors | β | β |
| Rear Parking Sensors | β | β |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | β | β |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | β | β |
| Front Cupholders | β | β |
| Rear Cupholders | β | β |
| Front Door Pockets | β | β |
| Rear Door Pockets | β | β |
| Front Seatback Storage | β | β |
| Leather Steering Wheel | β | β |
| Heated Steering Wheel | β | β |
| Three Zone Climate Control | β | β |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | β | β |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | β | β |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | β | β |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | β | β |
| Cargo Floor Mats | β | β |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | β | β |
| Wireless Charging Pad | β | β |
| Cruise Control | β | β |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | β | β |
| Extended Cabin Cooling | β | β |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.1 in | 10.3 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | β | β |
| Stereo Power | 180W | β |
| Speaker System | 10 | 8 |
| Android Auto (Wired) | β | β |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | β | β |
| USB Port | β | β |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | β | β |
| USB Port with External Media Control | β | β |
| Memory Card Slot | β | β |
| Premium Speaker Brand | β | Bose |
| Subwoofer Count | β | 1 |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | β | β |
| Satellite Radio | β | With Real Time Traffic |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | β | 3 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | β | β |
Power Feature
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 1 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass Extended | β |
| Remote Keyless Entry | β | β |
| Heated Mirrors | β | β |
| Keyless Entry | β | β |
Frontseats
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 37.8 in. | 40.6 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.3 in. | 42.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.7 in. | 56.5 in. |
| Seat Material: Leather | β | β |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | β | β |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | β |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | β | β |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | β |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | β |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | β | β |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | β |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Front Hip Room | β | 53.4 in. |
| Seat Material: Leather/Sueded Microfiber | β | β |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | β | 6-way |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | β | 4-way |
Rearseats
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 37.0 in. | 37.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 35.1 in. | 38.0 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 54.5 in. | 55.6 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | β | β |
| Folding Center Armrest | β | β |
| Rear Hip Room | β | 50.5 in. |
| Folding Rear Seatback | β | β |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | β |
| Wheel Diameter | 18 in | β |
| Tire Type | All Season | Performance |
| Tire Size | 245/40R H | 245/35R |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | β |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | β |
| Wheel Finish | β | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | β | 19 x 8.0 in |
Suspension
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | β | β |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | β | β |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | β | β |
Warranty
| Feature | Audi | Hyundai |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 10 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. | 7 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Audi A5 and 2026 Hyundai Elantra N.
How does the powertrain delivery differ between the 2025 Audi A5 and the 2026 Elantra N?
The Audi A5 uses a 7-speed automated manual transmission powering all four wheels with 261 hp. In contrast, the Elantra N is FWD and offers a more engaging 6-speed manual, pushing 276 hp to the front wheels for a more spirited feel.
Is the price difference of $13,300 justified by the specifications?
The $48,400 A5 trades performance edge for utility and AWD; its 21.8 cu ft cargo capacity is substantially larger than the Elantra N's 14.2 cu ft. However, the Elantra N offers more horsepower for its lower $35,100 entry price.
Which vehicle is better suited for long highway commutes?
The Audi A5 is generally better for long hauls, achieving 32 highway MPG compared to the Elantra N's 29 MPG. Additionally, its AWD system provides more confidence in varied weather conditions.
Are both cars only compatible with premium fuel?
Yes, both require premium fuel for optimal performance. The Audi A5 recommends premium unleaded, while the high-compression Elantra N requires it.
How do the physical dimensions affect maneuverability and space?
The Audi A5 is slightly longer at 187.2 inches, while the Elantra N is marginally taller at 55.7 inches. The Audi's wider stance (72.6 inches) contributes to its larger overall footprint.
If I value cargo space, which hatchback/sedan is the clear winner?
The Audi A5 hatchback is the definitive winner for hauling gear, providing 21.8 cubic feet of storage, which is over 50% more capacity than the Elantra N sedanβs 14.2 cubic feet.
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