Audi A5 Sedan

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BMW 318i Sedan

The 3 Series boasts one of the lightest weight models in the D segment

The A5 will be the first of Audi’s new generation of ICE (internal combustion engine) models, debuting in 2024. Developed based on the latest ICE architecture, “PPC (Premium Platform Combustion),” it achieves high efficiency and ideal packaging.

This time, we picked out the A5 TFSI 110kW, which does not feature a 48V mild hybrid, from the A5, which offers a wide range of powertrains, and the BMW 3 Series mass-produced model, the 318i Sedan M Sport. The current 3 Series debuted in 2018 as the seventh generation, and underwent a major facelift in 2022. The exterior has been updated in line with BMW’s latest design language.

The A5 is larger in size, 115mm in length, 35mm in width, and 45mm in wheelbase. In terms of weight, the A5 is 210kg heavier than the 2.0-liter inline-four turbo 2WD model. Rather than saying the A5 is “heavy,” it could be said that the 3 Series, which prioritizes maneuverability, is exceptionally “light” in the D segment.

Audi A5 TFSI 110kW

Body size = Length 4835mm x Width 1860mm x Height 1455mm

Wheelbase = 2895mm

Vehicle weight = 1750kg

Tire size = 205/60R17

BMW 318i Sedan M Sport

Body size = Length 4720mm x Width 1825mm x Height 1440mm

Wheelbase = 2850mm

Vehicle weight = 1540kg

Tire size = 225/45R18

Necessary and sufficient power for Japan’s traffic environment

The entry-level models are both equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo. The maximum output is almost the same, with the A5 producing 150 PS and the 3 Series producing 156 PS. The A5 boasts 30 Nm more torque than the 3 Series. It can be said that these cars offer both the necessary and sufficient specs for driving in Japanese city streets and on highways. Furthermore, both models are equipped with hybrid systems in the higher-end models.

Audi A5 TFSI 110kW

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo

Displacement = 1984cc

Maximum output = 150PS / 3900-6000rpm

Maximum torque = 280Nm / 1400-3600rpm

Transmission = 7-speed S tronic (DCT)

Drive system = FWD

BMW 318i Sedan M Sport

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo

Displacement = 1998cc

Maximum output = 156PS/4500rpm

Maximum torque = 250Nm/1300-4300rpm

Transmission = Electronically controlled 8-speed AT

Drive system = RWD

The “BMW-ness” is still alive and well in the entry model

The A5 is equipped with Audi’s latest generation integrated cockpit, the 11.9-inch “Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus” and 14.5-inch “MMI touch display.” The 3 Series, on the other hand, has also introduced the “BMW Curved Display” consisting of a 12.3-inch meter screen and a 14.9-inch Control Display in its improved model year. In terms of rear seat comfort and luggage usability, the A5 takes the win, taking advantage of its long wheelbase and efficient FWD layout.

The price difference between the A5 TFSI 110kW and the 318i Sedan M Sport is 630,000 yen. When choosing the latest generation of mid-size saloons, the A5’s price tag is a big attraction. However, even though the basic design is old, the 3 Series offers the sharp handling that is typical of BMW, even in its entry-level model. We invite you to get behind the wheel and see for yourself whether the 3 Series can make up for the price difference of over 600,000 yen.

Vehicle price

Audi A5 TFSI 110kW 5.99 million yen

BMW 318i Sedan M Sport 6.62 million yen

Related reading

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Audi has announced the A5, a successor to its flagship mid-size saloon and wagon, the A4, equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE), with sales set to begin in the Japanese market in 2025. Let’s compare the specs of the entry-level A5 TFSI 110kW and A4 35 TFSI advanced models to see how they’ve evolved from the previous A4.