Acura vs. Audi Reliability (All You Need to Know)

Chris Cho

Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.

When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!

Acura and Audi are two popular car brands known for their high-quality luxury cars, and excellent performance.

Regarding reliability, it can be tricky to make a firm decision between Acuras and Audis as both brands have a good reputation. However, there are a few differences that set each apart from the other.

Acura is more reliable than Audi. These Acura cars get better resale value and lower maintenance and repair costs than Audi. However, Audi meets up to the competition by providing impressive handling, superb performance and great technology, and unique interiors.

The reliability ratings of both car brands keep fluctuating. You get the best standards from Acura this year, but then the next year, they perform poorly.

Let’s compare the Acura’s and Audi’s reliability, looking at major factors that will help you make better decisions.

Detailed Comparison of Acura And Audi Reliability

Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Which is one better?

The reliability comparison of Acura and Audi is quite tricky. This is because there are lots of fluctuations across different years, with variations on different 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.

However, Audi beats Acura on the 2022 JD Power dependability survey.

Audi ranks 25 out of 32 car brands, with Acura taking the 28th position. This is unlike 2021 when Acura occupied the 10th position, with Audi taking the 20th position.

The repair and maintenance costs and the frequency of major and minor repairs are higher with Audis. Both cars have great and advanced safety features, but Audi has more cars with high safety ratings than Acura.

The handling and driving dynamics are superb on both cars, while Audi engines are popular for their Quattro all-wheel drive system that provides extra traction and control, Acura engines mostly feature a VTEC technology that ensures power and efficiency, making them smoother and more reliable.

Considering the lifespan, repair and maintenance cost, durability, and warranty coverage, Acura seems more reliable than Audi. However, you should reconsider your options between the 2022 Acura models.

Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Design

Acura and Audi are two different brands with their distinct design languages and aesthetic philosophies.

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, 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 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.

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

Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost

One way to evaluate a car brand's reliability is to consider how often it needs repairs, maintenance, and the attached prices for these services. 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

Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Engine and Performance

It's difficult to decide which brand has better engines, as it depends on the specific model and engine type. Acura and Audi offer a range of engines with varying levels of power and performance. However, both have their strengths and weaknesses.

Acura engines boast of their 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 are alright too. They 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, you should consider going for 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.

You must consider 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

Many times, it is difficult to predict which car brand will last longer than the other. This is because many factors can affect the longevity of a vehicle.

These factors include quality, driving conditions, and maintenance the vehicle receives.

That being said, 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.

To get near-accurate data on the durability and longevity of a car brand, reviews and research from previous owners come in handy.

Our experience owning and driving both Audi and Acura cars confirms that Acuras are slightly more durable than Audis.

Aside from the extended Acura’s powertrain warranty, the relative lifespan of these cars beats that of Audi.

However, Audi cars aren’t made of cheaper materials. Acura simply does it better.

Winner: Acura

Acura vs. Audi Reliability: Safety and Technology

Determining how safe a car brand is‌ challenging because overall safety depends on several factors. In addition to the design, engineering, safety technology, and driver assistance systems, the driver's behaviors also play an important role.

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 four safety awards in the 2022 IIHS safety ratings, with all cars earning the Top Safety Pick(+) award. Conversely, Audi received 21 safety awards from the IIHS Top Safety Pick(+) award.

Winner: Audi

Conclusion

Regarding reliability, 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.

You must remember that the reliability of the models of these brands varies significantly. Proper inspection and research on each model will give you valuable insight before purchasing.