Overview & Reviews

With its line of S models, Audi has built a reputation for delivering understated luxury along with a healthy dose of performance. Supporting the foundation of this reputation is the Audi S4, which is a sportier variant of the already-proficient A4 entry-level luxury sedan. As such, both of these Audis benefit from handsome styling, excellent interior design and materials, cosseting comfort and superior road-holding thanks to all-wheel-drive traction.

Where the S4 and A4 differ is in performance. Throughout its run, the S4 has boasted higher power output, sharper handling and impressive braking capabilities. Shoppers seeking a used S4 may, depending on the model year, have several body styles from which to choose. On the downside, the S4 has typically lacked the crisp handling performance offered by some of its rivals. Overall, though, we hold the Audi S4 in high regard.

Current Audi S4
Unlike previous generations, the current fifth-generation Audi S4 is only available as a sedan. The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet. The S4 is powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. A standard six-speed manual or optional seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual (S tronic) sends power to Audi's rear-biased "Quattro" all-wheel-drive system.

Inside, you'll find (in true Audi tradition) one of the finest cabins in the sport sedan class. The overall design is demure but classy, and although the center console is rather button-happy, Audi's updated MMI electronics interface is now much friendlier to use than before. The seats are supremely comfortable in the front, offering plenty of support through corners and over distances. Like the A4, the S4 offers a reasonably large backseat should your sport sedan be called on for family duty.

The S4 comes with an ample list of standard luxury features like xenon headlights, selectable driving settings (known as Audi Drive Select), tri-zone climate control and leather/faux-suede upholstery. Upgrades include bigger wheels, an adaptive suspension, a rear limited-slip differential, keyless ignition and entry, navigation and a premium Bang & Olufsen stereo.

The S4 shines thanks to its strong supercharged V6, sharp handling and a forgiving nature made possible by Quattro and that optional limited-slip rear differential. Even driven aggressively, the S4 imparts confidence to the driver. Grip is tenacious and the chassis is communicative. Even so, ride comfort is commendable and cabin noise is pleasantly hushed.

Used Audi S4 Models
The current Audi S4 represents the fifth generation in the model's lineage, debuting in 2010. An optional rearview camera and blind-spot warning system were made available the following year. For 2013, the S4 received a slight styling update (with more angular grille/headlights) and a revised MMI control interface. That year also saw the switch to electric-assisted steering. Apart from lacking Audi Drive Select as standard (it was optional though), these latter S4s are similar to today's version.

The previous, fourth-generation Audi S4 was available in a variety of body styles. The sedan and wagon (Avant) were sold from 2006-'08, while the convertible (cabriolet) lasted from 2007-'09. Relative to third-generation S4s, the fourth generation offered refreshed styling, a revised chassis and a more sport-biased Quattro system, though these changes represented more of a revitalization effort rather than a complete redesign.

Under this S4's hood was a 4.2-liter V8 that generated 340 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque. Power was sent to the Quattro all-wheel-drive system through either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. As with today's S4, this generation model had additional performance-oriented modifications, including a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels with high-performance tires and more powerful brakes.

Inside, front occupants were treated to a comfortable and functional cockpit. The backseat was more cramped than in the current car, and the electronics systems may seem a bit dated now. The electronics interface, in particular, could be quite frustrating to use with the optional navigation system installed. Leather seating was standard, and interior trim, lighting and controls were all of high quality.

The similar third-generation S4 was offered for 2004 and '05. This was the model that introduced the 340-hp V8 engine and expanded S4 availability to the sedan, wagon and convertible body styles. As with the fourth-gen S4, transmission choices were either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. At the time, the installation of such a powerful V8 in a small car raised some eyebrows, and indeed it boasted more power than BMW's contemporary M3 or Mercedes' C32.

In reviews of the third- and fourth-generation S4, we commented favorably about the car's broad power band, multiple body styles and high-quality interior. Downsides were a cramped backseat and handling that wasn't as razor-sharp as the M3's. The fact that the current S4 no longer has the V8 engine should make these generations a more novel, collectible choice in coming years.

Previous to these newer S4s, there were two other generations of the Audi S4 -- a second-generation vehicle, available from the 2000-'02 model years, and a first generation, available from 1992-'94.

The second-generation model was based on the A4 sedan and wagon of its day, and it came equipped with a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 engine rated at 250 hp. Quattro was standard, and Audi offered either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. In Edmunds' S4 road tests at the time, we found the car very enjoyable to drive, as it struck an ideal balance between outright performance and everyday comfort. Our main complaint about this model was the familiar lack of rear-seat room.

The first-generation Audi S4 was a performance variant of the Audi 100 sedan (later A6) sold from 1992-'94. These S4s came with a turbocharged inline five-cylinder engine capable of 227 hp. Quattro was again standard, and these cars were equipped with a five-speed manual transmission only. After 1994, they became known as the S6. First-generation S4s are a relatively rare find today.

User Reviews:

• 

  Read before you buy - 2014 Audi S4
  By scratchgolfer2 - June 10 - 2:58 pm

  I bought this car new last year, for the first year I loved the car, every aspect of it with small somewhat irritating problems. Wind blowing throw the windows on the highway right off the lot will drive you insane if you are listening to talk radio. My S4 came with the Upgraded Summer Tire package with the Continental Conti Contact 3s. These are the Worst tires in the world, the tread pattern wore out "unusually" after 7K miles, seriously...That is a like 2k option, what a waste, if you car has these tires make them change them before you buy.

• 

  2007 Audi S4 Avant - 2007 Audi S4
  By ericduncan - May 10 - 3:19 pm

  I bought the S4 Avant (specifically not the sedan) because I have dogs and they go everywhere with me. Im more than frustrated with the air circulation in this car. I live in Phoenix. Audi absolutely missed the boat when it comes to the comfort of anyone not sitting in the front. There are no air vents in the back (except on the floor) and while there are air vents in the back of the car, theyre only for defrosting and work only when heat comes through them. Im forced to drive my Volvo for four months out of the year because its literally cruel to have my dogs baking in the back (even though the a/c is on high). Dont buy this car unless you plan to only have one passenger.

• 

  A versatile car in every way except... - 2004 Audi S4
  By Dr. Michael Busse - January 22 - 4:53 pm

  This vehicle is very versatile. It isnt the fastest car nor the sexiest nor the safest but it IS the best combination of all of these. It is plenty fast, has very good looks, fit and finish, has all the safety features one could want such as curtain airbags and AWD, and has the ability to be usefull year round in northern climates. What this car isnt is reliable. They are expensive to repair largely due to the very tight packaging constraints of fitting in the v8. Common issues include clutches, valve cover gaskets, coilpacks, tensioner pullies, and starters. In three months of ownership the car visited the dealership 4 separate times with a total of 2 thousand in repairs (warrantied).

• 

  Fun but on second engine - 2004 Audi S4
  By dexters4 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Great car, lots of fun, much quicker than previous S4, but reliability very poor, had to have engine replaced within first month. Quality otherwise very impressive, could get better mileage but with a car like this, who cares. Sealer service dept great, but rest of dealership experience terrible. Audi America has work to do.

• 

  Not Close to an M3 - 2004 Audi S4
  By OLSONR - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Wide console rubs my kneecap constantly. Navigation system not accessible by navigator. No moving map. Just directions" on a 2X2 screen for a $1500 option. Wifes 1997 M3 gets 50% more mileage with same pickup. Torque-steer on front wheels annoying. Harsh ride. Gave back to dealer to sell with less than 400 miles on it. Will keep M3. A horrible car.

• 

  Great Car with a Fatal Flaw - 2004 Audi S4
  By msp - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Great fit and finish, great power but what is it with the throttle response? So much delay you can stomp to the floor and let off before anything happens. Worse than a turbo. When it does finally get going it keeps on going even after you start easing off. Not safe in a car with this much power! Gives new meaning to "Unintended Acceleration". Evaluate carefully before you buy!

• 

  A Nightmare - 2002 Audi S4
  By Dlp - May 6 - 2:00 am

  I had my car for about a year and it has been it the shop for evertyhing more than once and even something three times. The car has been in the shop more than 50 days altogether. For things like brakes , transmission, abs , Electronic stability system , reverse lights, tiptronic, auto dimming mirrors. The best part is that Audi told me that even though my car is so problematic and none of the defects is my fault that this car defects do not warrant a new vehicle. I pray that this situation will never occur to anyone else. If you are reading this think about what you are doing? (Purchasing an Audi)