Is the Audi A5 more reliable than the Lexus IS?

Based on our data, the Lexus IS is more reliable with an average score of 82/100 compared to 75/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.

Which has more recalls, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?

The Audi A5 has more recalls (16) compared to the Lexus IS (6). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.

Which has fewer owner complaints, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus IS has a lower complaint rate at 0.7 per 10,000 sold versus 2.9 for the Audi A5. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-03-28

Audi A5 vs Lexus IS: Reliability Compared

Audi A5

Good

More Reliable

Lexus IS

Excellent

Choosing between the Audi A5 and the Lexus IS? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two midsize sedans.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Lexus IS currently leads with an average score of 82/100 compared to 75/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Audi A5 and Lexus IS Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Lexus IS is in its third generation (XE30), which debuted in 2014 and received a significant facelift in 2020. This generation is mature, suggesting that most early issues have likely been resolved, making it potentially more reliable for buyers seeking a well-sorted vehicle. In contrast, the Audi A5 is in its third generation (RE10), which launched in 2025. Being early in its cycle, this newer platform might face typical first-year issues that can affect reliability. For those prioritizing reliability, the Lexus IS might offer more reassurance due to its established generation.

Verdict

The Lexus IS is more reliable than the Audi A5, scoring 82/100 vs 75/100.

The Lexus IS demonstrates superior reliability with an average score of 82/100 compared to the Audi A5's 75/100. With only six recalls over nine years and a low owner complaint rate of 0.7 per 10,000 sold, the Lexus IS stands out against the Audi A5, which has faced 16 recalls and a higher complaint rate of 2.9 per 10,000 sold. The Audi A5 also incurs an estimated annual repair cost of $739, which is not specified for the Lexus IS but suggests potential cost advantages for the Lexus. Overall, the Lexus IS is the more reliable choice, particularly due to its lower recall and complaint rates.

Key Differences

1Lexus IS has 10 fewer total recalls
2Lexus IS scores 7 points higher in reliability
3Lexus IS has 2.2 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

0Audi A5

—

3Lexus IS

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Audi A5 vs Lexus IS: Which Is More Reliable?

Audi A5 vs Lexus IS at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Audi A5	Lexus IS
Reliability Score	75/100	82/100
Years Tracked	8	9
Total Recalls	16	6
Complaints per 10k Sold	2.9	0.7
Year Wins	0	7

What Are the Common Problems With the Audi A5 and Lexus IS?

The Lexus IS has a relatively low number of total complaints, with issues primarily related to its structure, unidentified problems, and tires, with one tire-related complaint linked to a crash. In contrast, the Audi A5 exhibits a higher volume of complaints, particularly concerning its electrical system, which accounts for over half of its reported issues. Additionally, the A5 has a broader range of problem categories, including steering and vehicle speed control, both of which are critical to safety, with the steering category also having a crash-linked complaint. Overall, while both vehicles have tire-related issues, the Audi A5's significant electrical and safety-related complaints suggest areas of greater concern compared to the Lexus IS.

Audi A5 vs Lexus IS common problem areas comparison
Component	Audi A5	Lexus IS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	1.5Low	—None
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	0.5Very Low	—None
STEERING	0.1Very Low	—None
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	0.1Very Low	—None
TIRES	0.1Very Low	—None
BACK OVER PREVENTION	0.1Very Low	—None
ENGINE	0.1Very Low	—None
STRUCTURE	—None	—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Audi A5 or Lexus IS?

Based on independent repair cost data, the Audi A5 incurs an annual repair cost of $739, with an average of 0.6 repair visits per year. The Lexus IS lacks specific data, but typically, Lexus models are known for their reliability and lower repair frequency, potentially making it a more cost-effective choice over time. If the Lexus IS's repair costs align with brand expectations, it could save owners approximately $3,695 over five years compared to the Audi A5. For cost-conscious buyers prioritizing long-term value and reliability, the Lexus IS may present a better option, despite the absence of precise figures.

How Does Audi A5 vs Lexus IS Reliability Compare by Year?

Audi A5 vs Lexus IS year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Audi A5	Lexus IS	Edge
2025	77/1000R / 1C	83/1000R / 1C	Lexus IS
2023	81/1000R / 0C	83/1000R / 9C	Lexus IS
2022	74/1003R / 5C	83/1000R / 13C	Lexus IS
2021	71/1005R / 7C	83/1000R / 1C	Lexus IS
2020	70/1005R / 60C	83/1000R / 3C	Lexus IS
2019	73/1003R / 12C	79/1004R / 8C	Lexus IS
2018	77/1000R / 6C	81/1002R / 6C	Lexus IS
2026(predicted)	77/100(predicted)	83/100(predicted)	Lexus IS

Best years to cross-shop: The 2023 Audi A5 scored 81/100 and the 2025 Lexus IS scored 83/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Audi A5 vs the Lexus IS?

If you prioritize reliability and peace of mind, the Lexus IS might be the better choice for you. With a reliability score of 82/100 and only 0.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, it demonstrates a strong track record for dependability. While it has encountered 6 recalls, this is significantly fewer than the Audi A5. The top issues, such as structure and tires, are less critical than those involving the drivetrain or electronics. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the Audi A5 for its design or performance features, be aware of its higher estimated annual repair cost of $739 and a recall count of 16. The owner complaints rate is notably higher at 2.9 per 10,000 sold, with issues primarily in the electrical system and steering. This may indicate additional maintenance concerns down the road. However, if you are prepared for these potential costs and value the driving experience the A5 offers, it could still be a worthwhile investment.

Audi A5 vs Lexus IS: Common Questions

Is the Audi A5 more reliable than the Lexus IS?: Based on our data, the Lexus IS is more reliable with an average score of 82/100 compared to 75/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?: The Audi A5 has more recalls (16) compared to the Lexus IS (6). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Audi A5 or the Lexus IS?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus IS has a lower complaint rate at 0.7 per 10,000 sold versus 2.9 for the Audi A5. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

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How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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