Acura vs. Audi Reliability (All You Need to Know)
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Acura and Audi, renowned for their luxury offerings and exceptional performance, stand as pillars in the automotive industry.
While both brands boast a solid reliability record, Acura often edges out Audi in overall dependability.
Notably, Acura vehicles tend to offer better resale value and incur lower maintenance and repair expenses.
On the flip side, Audi distinguishes itself with superior handling, advanced technology, and distinctively luxurious interiors.
In our comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the reliability of Acura and Audi, focusing on critical factors to aid your decision-making process.
Let’s dive into the details!
Key Takeaways
- Acura is generally more reliable than Audi overall.
- Acura provides a longer powertrain warranty compared to Audi, along with a complimentary maintenance program.
- Acura vehicles tend to have lower repair frequencies and costs compared to Audi.
- Audi received more safety awards from the IIHS Top Safety Pick(+) award, indicating a slight edge in safety.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Detailed Comparison of Acura And Audi Reliability
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Which is one better?
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Design
- Acura Design
- Audi Design
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Warranty Coverage
- Acura Warranty Coverage
- Audi Warranty Coverage
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Engine and Performance
- Acura Engines
- Audi Engines
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Gas Mileage
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Durability
- Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Safety and Technology
- Audi vs Acura Reliability: Conclusion
- Best Car Deals by Category
- Frequently Asked Questions
Detailed Comparison of Acura And Audi Reliability
| Features | Acura | Audi |
| Repair and Maintenance Cost | ||
| Engine and Performance | ||
| Safety | ||
| Durability | ||
| Warranty | ||
| Gas Mileage | ||
| Design | ||
| Technology |
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Which is one better?
The reliability comparison of Acura and Audi is quite tricky, because of fluctuations across different years, and variations of ratings on multiple platforms.
For instance, according to RepairPal, Acura has a reliability rating of 4.0/5.0, ranking 2nd out of 32 car brands. Audi ranks 28th out of 32 car brands, with a reliability rating of 3.0/5.0. This is below the average reliability mark for car brands.
Acura also beats Audi on the 2023 JD Power dependability survey. They ranked 22nd and 30th respectively.
However, the previous year, JD ranked Audi above Acura.
Considering the lifespan, repair and maintenance cost, durability, and warranty coverage, Acura is more reliable than Audi. However, it heavily depends on the model and year of the cars in question.
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Design
Acura and Audi are two different brands with distinct aesthetic philosophies.
Acura Design
Acura, a division of Honda, is known for producing vehicles with a sporty and modern look. Acura's design is characterized by clean lines, angular shapes, and sharp creases. The signature "Diamond Pentagon" grille is a prominent feature on many of its models.
Audi Design
Audi, on the other hand, is known for its luxury vehicles with sophisticated and refined appearance. Audi's design language is characterized by sleek, flowing lines and a cohesive, cohesive look. The brand's signature single-frame grille is a distinctive feature on many of its models.
While both brands aim to create vehicles that are visually appealing and visually striking, their design philosophies and aesthetic approaches are quite different.
Ultimately, which brand's design language you prefer will depend on your taste and style preferences.
Winner: Both
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Warranty Coverage
One of the easiest ways to compare the reliability of car brands is to look at the warranty coverage they offer. Both Acura and Audi offer comprehensive warranties that cover defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period.
Acura Warranty Coverage
Acura offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty, as well as a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
Acura offers a complimentary maintenance program for the first three years or 36,000 miles of ownership, including oil and filter changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance.
Audi Warranty Coverage
On the other hand, Audi offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty and a 4-year/50,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
Audi also offers a complimentary scheduled maintenance program for the first three years or 30,000 miles of ownership, which includes oil and filter changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance.
While both Acura and Audi offer comprehensive warranties and maintenance programs, Acura's powertrain warranty is slightly longer than Audi's, guaranteeing additional peace of mind for buyers.
Winner: Acura
| Feature | Acura | Audi |
| Basic Limited Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years / 70,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | First 3 years or 36,000 miles (oil and filter changes, tire rotations, etc.) | First 3 years or 30,000 miles (oil and filter changes, tire rotations, etc.) |
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost
Vehicles with fewer repairs and fewer costs are more reliable.
According to data from Repairpal and Consumer Reports, Acura vehicles have lower repair frequencies and lesser repair and maintenance costs than Audi vehicles.
Audi has an annual repair cost of $987, while Acura has an annual repair cost of $501. Repair frequency for Acura cars is pegged at 0.4 times per year, with a 12% chance of major issues.
Audi has a higher 13% chance of major repairs and 0.8 times per year.
Winner: Acura
| Feature | Acura | Audi |
| Annual Repair Cost | $501 | $987 |
| Repair Frequency per Year | 0.4 times | 0.8 times |
| Chance of Major Repairs | 12% | 13% |
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Engine and Performance
Acura and Audi offer a range of engines with varying levels of power and performance. However, both have their strengths and weaknesses.
Acura Engines
Acura engines boast smoothness and reliability. Most Acura engines feature the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology, making it easier for them to achieve power and efficiency.
Some popular Acura engine options include the K20 2.0L inline-four found in the RSX and Integra Type R and the J32 3.2L V6 found in the CL and TL.
Audi Engines
Audi engines are also highly regarded for their performance and reliability. The Audi brand is known for its Quattro all-wheel drive system which improves traction and handling.
Some popular Audi engine options include the 2.0L TFSI four-cylinder found in the A4 and Q5 and the 4.2L V8 found in the S4 and RS4.
Winner: Both
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Gas Mileage
There are variations in the gas mileage of Acura and Audi, depending on the model and engine type.
For the best fuel efficiency, consider the hybrid and electric models of both brands.
In some situations, you'll get better gas mileage on an Acura, and sometimes Audi tends to do better. For instance, Acura TLX offers better gas mileage than Audi A5, but Audi A4 does better than Acura TLX.
Evaluate the specific model and engine type when comparing the fuel efficiency of Acura and Audi vehicles. Remember that fuel efficiency can be affected by several factors, including driving habits and the type of terrain you are driving on.
Winner: Both
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Durability
Audi and Acura have a reputation for producing reliable and long-lasting vehicles. To get the most out of your car, you must study and follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, drive responsibly, and take good care of your vehicle.
Well-maintained Audi cars can last around 150,000-200,000 miles, or 10 to 13 years. On the other hand, Acuras can last between 250,000 and 300,000 with proper care.
Our experience owning and driving both Audi and Acura cars confirms that Acuras are slightly more durable than Audis.
Audi cars aren’t made of cheaper materials, but Acura simply does it better.
Winner: Acura
Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Safety and Technology
Audi and Acura have a reputation for producing vehicles with advanced safety features and technologies. Both brands have received high safety ratings from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
However, there are certain differences in the ratings these cars have received for a short while.
Acura earns three safety awards in the 2023 IIHS safety ratings, with all cars earning the Top Safety Pick(+) award. Conversely, Audi received eight safety awards from the IIHS Top Safety Pick(+) award.
Winner: Audi
Audi vs Acura Reliability: Conclusion
Both Acura and Audi have excellent reputations and offer comprehensive warranties and maintenance programs. However, Acura has lower repair frequencies, higher owner satisfaction, and a lesser repair and maintenance cost.
Notably, the reliability of the models of these brands varies significantly. Proper inspection and research on each model will give you valuable insight before purchasing.
Learn more about the reliability of Audi and Acura by checking out these other comparison guides:
