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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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:

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  One of my favorites - 2004 Audi S4
  By PikesPeak - September 18 - 11:34 am

  Over the years I have owned a number of fast cars and this ranks as one of the best. I originally intended buying the sedan but ended up getting the wagon (with a 6 speed) which I think is even better looking and a bit more practical.

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  I bought it not knowing what it needed... - 2005 Audi S4
  By Finn Quinlan - August 24 - 8:11 pm

  Let me start this review by saying wow. This car is literally awesome and every ounce of performance and style is there. Im 66" and with the seat all the way back lol i have great leg and head room in my avant. I think the design is honestly pretty poor on the interior side because when i have my seat back all the way and the passenger is getting comfortable with the seat but not all the way back. The back seats literally have no leg room. I think if they had given just 4 inches of the back seats and moved them back about 4" it would be fine. The trunk is still huge anyway. I bought it as my first car at 17 years old, i know now that Ive bought a gem and i love the car extremely. I bought it with minor cosmetic problems but i knew that when i bought it for a steal. So far since Ive had it, Ive driven it for 6 fun-filled and gas guzzled days and then it broke. It was leaking anti freeze and had almost no oil in it, had in known that before i made the purchase, id own a sedan s4. Even with that, i love the avant and would never trade it for a sedan ever. Never ever. Im already rebuilding the entire engine so hopefully after this the car is in mint condition which it should be and ill drive it till the wheels fall off.

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  Never Follow - 2004 Audi S4
  By greekaudifanatic - July 7 - 11:12 pm

  Im 22 and have now owned 3 audis. Loved my 2000 A6 2.7T for 3 years then looked to get a new Audi. Was first looking for a 2006 A8L which is such a great luxury sedan. I test drove a Dolpin Grey S4 as well on the lot and ever since never wanted to stop driving it. Cant say enough about the whole package, engine is awesome and fit and finish as well.

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  8cyl/4 season/ 2+2 convertible to beat - 2005 Audi S4
  By nick - June 18 - 10:10 pm

  The most reasonably priced 8cyl/4wd/4 season 2+2 convertible for snow covered Northeast states there is no other convertible in this class that can claim this. Excellent fit and finish by coach builders from Karmann, Germany. This car is almost like a hand made jewel for this price range.

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  06 Audi S4 Sedan Manual - 2007 Audi S4
  By S4BB - June 1 - 10:21 am

  Very fun car to drive, incredible engine. Love the sound of the V8, do not love the gas mileage of the V8, but always worth it. Still the best interiors on the market. Only negative is that the brakes sometimes squeal.

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  04 S4 -Tremendous - 2004 Audi S4
  By RaudiS4 - May 29 - 12:22 pm

  This car is fantastic. Surefooted, easy to drive hard, fun, reliable and solid (read, safe). The AWD and traction control make this a serious toy for us "older" kids. And, when you think youve mastered it, turn off the traction control.

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  Wow - 2005 Audi S4
  By s4pimpdaddy - May 12 - 10:13 am

  Wow, what a machine. I upgraded from a Volkswagen GTI to this and this car is light years ahead of anything else Ive ever driven. The AWD is flawless, the Recaro leather seats hold you in, and the quality of the interior is second to none. My only gripe about this car is the awful gas mileage.

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  2007 S4 manual transmission - 2007 Audi S4
  By Paul Lavelle - May 10 - 5:46 pm

  My 5th quattro in a row, but my 1st "S". It is a sublime rocket described as a compact, four door family sedan. It may be the one of the best "sleeper" cars currently available. Its power and brakes border or intrude on true sports car territory. The build quality is superb. It is bank vault solid with close to excellent feedback of the road and driving conditions. The exhaust note sold me on the car. It is a car enthusiasts Beethovens fifth. It will not attract unwanted attention but will certainly capture the onlookers attention as it roars past with the silky V8 at full song at 7000 RPM. Certainly my best car purchase to date and zero regrets.

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  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.

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  Fast, Rough and Thirsty - 2006 Audi S4
  By Brian - May 8 - 3:31 pm

  One of the fastest cars I have ever owned (and I like fast expensive cars), a blast to drive for fun, but after a year I cant live with it anymore. A fifteen gallon tank and 15-18 miles to the gallon means filling up every other day. At 80 mph the car is turning 3200 rpm and while the suspension feels great on back roads, on the highway (where I spend too much time) the suspension makes small road imperfections feel like speed bumps. I know I wont get much sympathy here, but when talking on the cell phone on the highway, road imperfections make my voice warble, not good when talking to clients. A GREAT weekend car, but a tough daily driver.