One of the most enticing luxury cars of this year would have to be the 2020 Audi A5. The Audi A5 provides an array of powertrains, body styles, and luxe interior features. Because of this, the A5 outshines its corporate cousin, the 2020 Volkswagen Arteon, in many ways. But does the Arteon do anything better than the A5?

Driving the Audi A5 and the Volkswagen Arteon 

Both the A5 and the Arteon are striking, small luxury sedans that epitomize German style. The Arteon is only available in one body style while the A5 is available as a coupe, hatchback, or convertible. Plus, the A5 offers three powertrain options while the Arteon has just one.

Standard A5 models feature a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 248-horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provides satisfying power and serves as a mild hybrid. If you’re looking for more juice, you can go up to the S5 variant. The S5 gets its power from a forceful 349-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

And if the S5 still isn’t doing it for you, there’s a high-performance version known as the RS 5. With the RS 5, you get a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine that generates 444-hp and 443 pound-feet of torque. No matter which engine you choose, you’ll find that the A5 is delightful to drive.

On the contrary, the Arteon isn’t known for its power at all. This VW features a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder that creates 168-hp. The Arteon earns points for its smooth ride quality, making it a great choice for road trips. Its main downside though, is that its engine gets too loud at higher speeds.

On the inside 

The Arteon shines brighter for its handsome car cabin. This sedan is generous on space and provides supportive seats for all five passengers. Faux upholstery comes standard on Arteon and so heated front seats. It also comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that features an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. You can upgrade the Arteon with add ons, including a massaging driver;’ chair and heated front seats.  

While the Arteon has an upscale cabin, the A5’s is even grander. U.S. News credits the A5 for having one of the most luxurious interiors in its class. Leather comes standard on the A5 as do power-adjustable, heated front sport seats. Like the Arteon, the A5 also comes with desirable infotainment features and has a larger touchscreen display. Both the Arteon and the A5 can be upgraded with a visual cockpit that replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a digital display. 

So what does the Arteon have over the A5?

The Arteon and the A5 are worthy of luxury car options. However, their focuses are entirely different. The A5 is lavish in almost every way, while the Arteon is more about affordability and luxury. The Arteon starts at $35,995, and the A5 starts at $42,900. So if you’re looking for a bargain buy, the Arteon is the way to go.