Choosing the right driving mode can completely change how your Audi feels on the road. With Audi Drive Select, available across the 2025 lineup, you can tailor the car’s performance to match traffic, weather, or your mood. From relaxing commutes in Comfort mode to spirited runs in Dynamic mode, this system gives you control over throttle response, steering, suspension, and transmission behavior.
Whether you drive a Q5, an A5 or another Audi model, knowing when to switch modes can make every trip more enjoyable and efficient.
What is Audi Drive Select?
Audi Drive Select is a system that lets you choose between multiple driving modes, changing how the engine, transmission, steering, and suspension behave. With a tap of a button or a selection on the screen, your Audi can shift from a smooth commuter to a sporty performer. In 2025 models, the available modes are:
- Comfort
- Dynamic
- Auto
- Efficiency
- Offroad (SUVs like the Q5 and Q7 only)
These modes are shown on the central screen or in the Audi Virtual Cockpit and can be changed anytime during your drive.
Comfort Mode: Perfect for Traffic and City Driving
Comfort mode softens the steering, smooths throttle response, and, in models with adaptive suspension, cushions the ride. This is ideal for stop-and-go traffic on the LIE or when driving through tighter areas like Great Neck Plaza. The transmission shifts earlier to keep the ride quiet and relaxed.
When not to use it: Comfort mode can feel too slow to react if you need quick acceleration, such as merging onto the Northern State Parkway.
Dynamic Mode: For Spirited Drives
Dynamic mode sharpens everything. Throttle response is quicker, the transmission holds gears longer, the steering wheel feels weightier, and suspension firms up for confident handling. On a weekend drive along Ocean Parkway, you’ll feel the car come alive.
When not to use it: It can feel harsh on pothole-ridden city streets, and it uses more fuel than other modes.
Auto Mode: A Smart Everyday Choice
Auto mode balances between Comfort and Dynamic, adapting to how you drive. If you accelerate gently, it behaves like Comfort. If you push harder, it becomes more like Dynamic. This is a great all-around choice when driving from Great Neck into Manhattan, where conditions constantly change.
Efficiency Mode: Best for Longer Trips
Efficiency mode maximizes fuel economy by dulling throttle response and encouraging earlier gear shifts. On longer drives, like heading out to Montauk or the Hamptons, it helps stretch your mileage while keeping the ride calm.
When not to use it: If you need quick power for merging or passing, Efficiency mode can feel too sluggish.
Offroad Mode: For Rougher Roads (SUVs Only)
Exclusive to Audi SUVs, Offroad mode adjusts traction, throttle, and suspension for sand, gravel, or snow. If you’re visiting a North Fork vineyard with gravel roads or navigating a snowy driveway in the Catskills, Offroad mode keeps the car stable and confident.
How to Switch Modes
You can change Drive Select modes using the button on your center console, through the touchscreen under “Car” settings, or via the Audi Virtual Cockpit with steering wheel controls. Each change is instant and displayed clearly on your screen.
For more flexibility, many 2025 Audi models also include Individual Mode, which allows you to mix settings. For example, you can pair Dynamic engine response with Comfort suspension for a sporty yet smooth ride around Long Island’s varied roads.
The Takeaway
Audi Drive Select makes your vehicle adaptable for every drive. Use Comfort for city traffic, Dynamic for fun weekend drives, Auto for daily commutes, Efficiency for road trips, and Offroad when conditions call for extra grip. Once you get comfortable switching between modes, you’ll discover that your 2025 Audi is more than one car. It is multiple driving experiences in one.
Want to explore how Drive Select feels in person? Visit Audi Great Neck to schedule a test drive in the latest Audi models.