Used test: Audi S5 Sportback vs Kia Stinger GT S
These two performance cars offer both style and substance, but which one makes the best used buy? We have the answer...
What will they cost?
New, the S5 was the more expensive car by a whopping £8000, but at this age that price differential has narrowed down to just £3000. That initial depreciation being what it is, both cars represent good value for money here, with the Kia’s forecourt price of £28,000 looking very competitive.
In terms of running costs, the Stinger is the thirstier car, and will cost you slightly more to insure. However, it should cost a fraction less to service.
The Stinger comes with pretty much every toy you could want. The S5 isn’t poorly equipped by class standards and does come with massaging front seats and rear climate control, which the Kia doesn’t offer, but to align the S5 with the GT S on spec would ramp up its used forecourt price massively.
That goes for safety kit, too. Both get automatic emergency braking as standard, but blindspot warning, lane-keeping assist and traffic sign recognition are all part of expensive option packs on the S5, all standard on the Stinger. Both cars were awarded five stars by Euro NCAP; the Stinger scored higher marks for adult occupant and pedestrian safety but wasn’t found to be as good at protecting children on board.
Best performance cars 2024: the thrillers to buy – and avoid
The best performance cars combine sports car-rivalling acceleration and engaging handling with impressive everyday usability, but which should you consider – and which are best avoided?
