Each manufacturer has its own unique way of differentiating its model range, and Audi uses a relatively straight-forward system that allows buyers to pick from up to three pre-configured trims for each of its models.
But, while the Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trim designations are intended to make things simple, there are a few things worth knowing before simply ticking one of these boxes on your next new Audi. We cover exactly what each trim level means, and how they differ across the various Audi models.
Audi Trim Levels & Pricing
| Model | Premium | Premium Plus | Prestige |
| Audi Q5 | $52,800 | $55,700 | $60,700 |
| Audi S5 | $63,300 | $66,200 | $70,900 |
| Audi Q6 e-tron | $64,800 | $68,900 | $73,100 |
Audi’s pre-configured trim offerings are divided into Premium (base), Premium Plus (mid-spec), and Prestige (top-spec) options. Depending on the model you are looking at, the pricing gap between them tends to be about 10% for each tier. Not every model gets all three trim options, with the higher spec Audi SQ8 and SQ7 both skipping out the base Premium trim.
Models like the range-topping e-tron GT are offered in just one all-encompassing trim, in this case, this $170,500 all-electric sports sedan comes with just about every feature as standard equipment. This also applies to the priciest versions of the A8 and S8 sedan. At the other end of the scale, the $43,700 Q3 SUV also comes in just one trim level, but this time it includes a far more basic selection of features.
What Each Trim Level Offers
While the names of each trim tier remain the same across Audi’s model range, a Premium Plus trim on the compact Audi Q5 SUV is not necessarily the same thing as a Premium Plus option on a far more expensive SQ8 SUV.
Certain features on pricier models are already included as standard, and the higher trim tiers often include unique model-specific options. However, there are certain features that are common across most common models, and the ones below are often bundled into the three trim levels:
| Trim Level | Notable Features |
| Premium | High-resolution digital instrument cluster Genuine leather seating with heated front seats Full LED headlights and key active safety systems |
| Premium Plus | Multi-speaker premium audio system 360-degree exterior camera view for easy maneuvering Driver assistance with lane guidance and traffic sign recognition |
| Prestige | Advanced LED/Laser headlights with dynamic animations Head-Up Display (HUD) Dual-pane acoustic glass, ventilated/massage front seats, and soft-close doors |
Are There Other Ways to Customize My Audi?
While these three main trim levels are the starting point to customizing any new Audi, there are other ways to personalize most models in the range. The trim levels do not indicate engine performance, as this is most commonly indicated by a letter or two before the model number designation. Once again, the actual power and acceleration will differ between models, so an S3 sedan will not necessarily be as powerful as an S5.
| Model Examples | Power and Performance Level for its Segment |
| Audi A3/Q5/Q7 | Entry-level |
| Audi S3/S5/SQ5 | High performance |
| Audi RS3/RS6/RS Q8 | Ultra-high performance |
In terms of additional kit, every Audi model can also be optioned with different exterior paint colors, interior materials and colors, as well as a selection of wheels. Optional packages are available as well, and these allow you to add a curated list of extras to your chosen trim. The availability and exact content of each package depends on which model and trim you have chosen.
| Common Package Options | Notable Features |
| Convenience Package | Heated steering wheel, top view camera |
| Technology Package | Head-up Display, Passenger Display |
| S Line Black Optic Package | Black exterior trim, S Line exterior, sporty wheels |
Ticking The Boxes
Audi
Audi
Audi
Buying a new car can be a very exciting bout also slightly stressful process. When it comes to Audi, knowing the difference between a Prestige and Premium Plus trim will help you get the best value for your money and the features you actually want.
The exact contents of each trim tier vary across the various Audi models, and higher trim levels open up additional options, ranging from unique colors to special interior fabrics as well as the packages you can choose. Certain entry-level Audi models don’t offer separate trim levels at all, while the priciest and most luxurious models come packed with everything as standard already.
For most Audis, though, the Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels are your starting point to customize your chosen model. While you should always compare each trim tier before making your choice, the Premium Plus trim is often the one that delivers the best value for money and opens up further standalone options and packages to truly make your new Audi as close to perfect as possible.
About the author
John Tallodi
Senior Editor