2024 Genesis G70 vs. Audi A5: A Better Luxury Sedan for $6,000 Less
2024 Genesis G70 vs. 2024 Audi A5 Highlights:
- The 2024 Genesis G70 boasts better performance from both standard and optional engines
- The 2024 Audi A5’s design is a letdown in a highly competitive segment
- For $6,000 less, the Genesis G70 has more standard features and a head-turning design
The midsize luxury sedan race is tighter than it’s ever been. And while two models sit as unheralded heroes, both the 2024 Genesis G70 and 2024 Audi A5 deliver high-class drives. But for $6,000 less, the G70 takes its German rival to task and comes out on top.
2024 Genesis G70 vs. 2024 Audi A5
| 2024 Genesis G70 | 2024 Audi A5 | |
| Pricing | $39,400 | $45,500 |
| Trim levels | Standard, Sport Prestige | Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige |
| Engine Types + Sizes | 2.0T 4-Cyl, 3.3T 6-Cyl | 2.0T 4-Cyl (2 versions) |
| Horsepower + Torque | 2.0T: 252 hp, 260 lb.ft. 3.3T: 365 hp, 376 lb.ft. | 2.0T 40: 201 hp, 236 lb.ft. 2.0T 45: 261 hp, 273 lb.ft. |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | 8-speed automatic | 7-speed automatic |
| Acceleration + Top Speed | 2.0T: 0-60: 5.8 sec 3.3T: 0-60: 4.5 sec | 2.0T 40: 0-60: 6.4 sec 2.0T 45: 0-60: 5.4 sec |
| Fuel efficiency | 2.0T: 22 city/30 hwy3.3T: 17 city/25 hwy | 2.0T 40: 26 city/35 hwy2.0T 45: 24 city/32 hwy |
| Safety Rating | IIHS: TSS+ (2022) | IIHS: TSS+ (2022) |
2024 Genesis G70 vs. Audi A5 performance comparison
Both luxury sedans offer two different engine configurations, and the Genesis wins in both tiers. The base Genesis G70 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the Audi A5 gets a 2.0-liter turbo four good for 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque.
Moving up the lineup, the G70 offers a 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 as an upgrade over the base four-cylinder. This setup chucks out an impressive 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. The Audi A5, however, simply turns up the wick on its 2.0-liter turbo four to the tune of 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.
Standout looks set the 2024 Genesis G70 apart
Audi’s understated design language is a draw for some. But for a luxury sedan that looks the part, it’s hard to deny what the Genesis G70 brings to the table.
Not only are the split-LED headlights a signature look, but the big pentagonal grille gives this midsize luxury sedan a road presence that the Audi A5 just can’t match. Combine that with the aggressive lower grilles and body lines, and the G70 is a real head-turner. The A5, meanwhile, is just a bit too understated for its own good.
Of course, style is subjective. Some would argue that the A5 is timeless. And while I’d agree with that assessment, cars are an emotional purchase. And quite frankly, the A5 doesn’t stir up any excitement at first glance.
Genesis offers more standard equipment than Audi
Looks and performance doesn’t matter to every driver, but even inside, the Genesis G70 bests the Audi A5. The triple-screen setup of the Audi is enticing at first glance. But for actual function, the G70’s analog dials and switches look great and are easier to use.
In addition, the G70 features heated leatherette seats that provide ample support and 10-way adjustability. While the Audi comes with real leather even in the base trim, heated seats are optional.
That said, this isn’t an issue of the Audi falling behind. Instead, it’s Genesis setting a new standard. The BMW 3 Series doesn’t include standard heated seats either, nor does the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The same is true for adaptive cruise control, where the G70 includes it as standard. Only the Lexus ES does the same in this category but costs considerably more to start.
Overall value means the Genesis G70 is an outright winner
You might think that for all the extra performance and features the Audi A5 would be cheaper to bring home. Instead, it’s the Genesis G70 that wins yet again. With a price tag of just under $40,000, it’s nearly $6,000 less than the base Audi A5.
That trend continues even if you jump into higher-tier models. The most expensive G70 luxury sedan runs $61,025. That’ll get you Brembo brakes, heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, and premium audio, to name a few. For the same cash, you’ll get the top-spec Audi A5 with ventilated seats, but without performance brakes.
For that, you’ll have to jump into an S5 at a starting price of $56,000. Of course, you’ll give up some luxury touches like premium audio and ventilated seats. But at least it comes with adaptive cruise control. Overall, the G70 simply provides more value throughout the lineup.
