Audi vs Volkswagen: Which One is Right For You

If you’re looking to buy a used car, some of the best options in 2023 include Volkswagen and Audi. Though many of their models resemble each other, they have different features, pricing, and styling. Audi is known more for luxury and Volkswagen is known more for sensibility. But both of these vehicle brands (made by the Volkswagen Group) offer models known for superior reliability and engineering. Learn more about their differences in this Audi vs Volkswagen guide.

Horsepower, Towing Capacity and Fuel Efficiency

In general, Audi vehicles are sportier, and are made with more horsepower for better acceleration. The Audi brand still leads the Volkswagen vs Audi debate regarding precision driving and power. If you take an Audi A4 and a Volkswagen Jetta for test drives, then you’ll notice both can feel sporty, but the A4 will get you off the line faster.

Pricing and Value

Volkswagen models have lower prices compared to Audi models. However, an interesting bit: in terms of value, Volkswagen vehicles actually depreciate slower than Audi. While Audi markets itself as more of a luxury brand, Volkswagen makes many very similar models, just without as much of a focus on sportiness or luxury styling. If you’re looking for bang for your buck, then you probably want to look at a used Volkswagen. But if you’re looking for quality pre-owned style, then Audi is where you want to start.

Quality, Safety, Reliability, and Value Retention

Typically, Volkswagen models have better scores than Audi models regarding overall quality and retained value. However, interestingly, Audi usually wins in the Audi vs Volkswagen comparisons when ranked based on reliability and safety.

Available Body Styles and Drivetrain Options

The Audi brand has four convertibles, seven coupes, three wagons and seventeen SUVs under its flagship. On the other hand, Volkswagen models are available in two hatchbacks, four sedans and five SUVs. Audi’s drivetrain options include eight electric vehicles, two plug-in hybrids and thirty-five gasoline vehicles. For Volkswagen, the drivetrain options include one electric vehicle and ten gasoline vehicles. Lastly, the Audi brand offers two rear-wheel-drive models, one front-wheel-drive model and forty-three all-wheel-drive models. Consequently, Volkswagen has one rear-wheel-drive model, nine front-wheel-drive models and seven all-wheel-drive models.

Resale Value Rankings

Volkswagen vehicles have a higher resale value compared to Audi. In particular, the Volkswagen ID.4 (an electric SUV) has the best resale value of all Volkswagen models.

Audi vs Volkswagen: The Verdict

Audi wins in the variety of models available, safety, reliability, towing capacity, horsepower and depreciation. And Volkswagen takes the lead in retained value, overall quality, fuel efficiency and new car pricing rankings. If you want to buy any of these vehicles, visit Palm Beach Auto Sales for a wide selection of new and used vehicles. Contact us today if you need more details.