Lexus ES vs Audi A5
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Lexus ES starts from $73,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi A5 opens at $79,900. That makes the Lexus ES the more affordable entry point by $6,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $81,290 and $87,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus ES by roughly $1,280 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus ES and Audi A5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 95% for the Lexus ES and 87% for the Audi A5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi A5 packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 7 in the Lexus ES.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Lexus ES and 7 in the Audi A5.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus ES features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Audi A5 gets a 10.1-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus ES stands out with Apple CarPlay, wireless charging and panoramic roof that you will not find on the Audi A5. The Audi A5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, ventilated seats and Bang & Olufsen audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus ES uses a Hybrid producing 160kW and 221Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.9 seconds.
The Audi A5 responds with a Petrol MHEV making 150kW and 340Nm, paired to a s tronic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds.
The Lexus ES has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi A5 is 0.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus ES measures 4,975mm long on a 2,870mm wheelbase, 213mm longer than the Audi A5 at 4,762mm (2,821mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus ES generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 473L in the Lexus ES and 400L in the Audi A5, giving the Lexus ES a 73L advantage.
For towing, the Audi A5 leads with a 1,800kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 800kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m to 11.4m
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,511/year for the Lexus ES and $1,767/year for the Audi A5. That is a $256 annual difference in favour of the Lexus ES.
Estimated annual total: $1,511 (Lexus ES) vs $1,767 (Audi A5). The Lexus ES saves you roughly $256 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus ES) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi A5). The Audi A5 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus ES)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus ES if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi A5 if: You value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus ES takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus ES will save you roughly $256 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus ES has a clear edge. The Audi A5 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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