Understanding the road tax, officially known as Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), for your Audi is essential for budgeting and compliance.
The amount you pay varies based on factors such as your vehicle’s CO₂ emissions, registration date, fuel type, and list price.
Let’s explore how these elements influence the road tax for various Audi models.
What Is Road Tax and How Is It Calculated?
Road tax is a mandatory fee for vehicles driven or parked on public roads in the UK.
The calculation of this tax hinges on several factors:
- CO₂ Emissions: Vehicles emitting higher levels of CO₂ attract higher taxes.
- Fuel Type: Petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles each have distinct tax rates.
- Vehicle Registration Date: The date your Audi was first registered influences the applicable tax rates.
- Vehicle List Price: Cars with a list price exceeding £40,000 incur an additional surcharge.
Road Tax for Different Audi Models
Audi’s diverse lineup means road tax can vary across models.
If you’re considering purchasing an Audi, it’s worth exploring our Audi buying guide for more insights into various models, pricing, and features.
Audi A1, A3, and A4: Compact and Mid-Size Models
- Audi A1 Sportback (2018 onwards): Annual road tax is approximately £190.
- Audi A3 Sportback (2020 onwards): Depending on the variant, expect to pay between £180 and £600 annually.
- Audi A4 Saloon (2015 – 2024): Road tax ranges from £0 to £600 per year, influenced by the specific model and emissions.
Audi Q2, Q3, and Q5: SUV Range
- Audi Q2 SUV (2016 onwards): Annual tax ranges from £20 to £600.
- Audi Q3 SUV (2018 onwards): Expect to pay between £180 and £600 annually.
- Audi Q5 SUV (2024 onwards): A flat rate of £600 per year applies.
Road Tax for Electric and Hybrid Audi Models
Electric vehicles (EVs) like the Audi e-tron series have been exempt from road tax.
However, starting from April 2025, EVs will be subject to VED:
- First-Year Rate: £10
- Standard Annual Rate: £195
If you’re considering an electric car, check out our Tesla guide for a comparison of EVs and potential tax savings.
UK Road Tax Bands and Costs (2025 Rates)
For vehicles registered on or after 1 April 2017, the following rates apply:
- First-Year Rate: Based on CO₂ emissions, ranging from £0 for zero emissions to £5,490 for emissions over 255 g/km.
- Standard Annual Rate: £195 for petrol and diesel vehicles; £185 for alternative fuel vehicles.
Additionally, vehicles with a list price over £40,000 incur an extra £410 annually for five years.
How to Check Your Audi’s Road Tax Online
To determine your specific Audi’s road tax:
- Visit the official government website.
- Enter your vehicle’s registration details.
- Review the displayed tax information.
If you’re buying a car from a dealer, make sure you’re aware of your rights. Here’s what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car to ensure you’re protected.
How to Reduce Road Tax on Your Audi
- Opt for Low-Emission Models: Vehicles with lower CO₂ emissions attract lower taxes.
- Explore Electric or Hybrid Options: While EVs will soon be taxed, they still offer savings compared to traditional fuel vehicles.
- Be Mindful of the Vehicle’s List Price: Choosing models priced below £40,000 can help avoid the additional surcharge.
Conclusion
Navigating road tax for your Audi requires understanding various factors, from emissions to vehicle price.
Staying informed about current rates and upcoming changes ensures you’re prepared and can make cost-effective decisions.
Whether you’re considering a new purchase or evaluating your current vehicle, this guide aims to provide clarity on what to expect in terms of road tax.
If you’re planning to buy a new car, you might also want to read about how much dealerships might reduce the price of a new car to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Note: Tax rates and regulations are subject to change.
Always consult the latest resources or official channels for the most current information.
