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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  First months of ownership - 2007 Audi S4
  By RX Express - May 6 - 10:32 pm

  This is my first Audi/German car. I was looking for a fun, safe, classy car that would accommodate my 6 year old twins. I looked at all cars under 60k. The S4 fulfilled all my expectations and more. I still find new features on the car, i.e. the way it channels rain over the car not on the side windows and the memory of seat, mirror and climate settings tied to the remote. The build quality is excellent. It is so solid. The speed is addictive. Cornering is phenomenal. Its limits cannot be safely explored on the street. I am a quattro convert.

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  Audi S4 25th Quattro - 2006 Audi S4
  By JRMSR - April 20 - 2:01 pm

  The Audi is flawless with exception to the throttle. Quite abrupt and takes careful modulation to get the smoothest operation. Best car Ive owned to date. Comfort is wonderful and conveniences are outstanding. Performance is on par or better than most sport cars in the higher dollar range. Engine performance and torque are nothing short of massive, without being peaky. Lug it in a lower gear and it accelerates away without hesitation. I cant wait to drive the RS4. Fit and trim is perfect. Transmission is precise with positive shifting. Front to rear bias is absolutely terrific with neutral steering. Sound system is perfectly matched to the Audi without being harsh and overbearing.

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  Excellent buy - 1992 Audi S4
  By Matthew - March 28 - 3:01 pm

  I bought this vehicle from a family member almost two years ago and have loved every minute of ownership. The vehicle did have a problem with first gear(its a 5 speed manuel)where there was a nasty grinding noise. I had to have the transmission replaced but I bought knowing this would have to occure. Since then Ive absolutely loved driving the vehicle. I agree with many of the posts that the turbo is a bomb when it kicks in.

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  A wolf in sheeps clothing - 2004 Audi S4
  By SimpleSam - March 28 - 2:05 pm

  The S4 is the first Audi I have ever purchased, and it will definitely not be my last. I have been a BMW fan for years, however, the interior design and class the S4 resembles cannot be matched by any current manufacturer. Power is plentiful even at low RPMs, giving passing lanes a sort of GT feel rather than mundane city driving. The grabby clutch did give me some issues during the first 1000kms, although the overall driving experience overcompensated for Audis slight imperfection. My only major complaint is Audi waited so long to bring the RS4 stateside! Oh well, I will just have to settle for the sluggish 340 hp, road gripping, eye catching juggernaut. A tru1ely remarkable car.

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  Sharp car that is fun to drive - 2007 Audi S4
  By DKGESQ - March 14 - 2:54 pm

  Bought this car a few months ago and really enjoy the V8 power on tap and the crisp handling. This is my first Audi and I have been very impressed. The gas mileage is below average, but I knew this going in and I dont think the car should be penalized for it.

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  Simply a Blast! - 2002 Audi S4
  By S4driver - February 19 - 5:38 pm

  Great vehicle! First Audi Ive owned. Comfortable, fast and not too flashy. Was looking for an A8 at the time. Came across the S4 and drove it home. So far, the most fun vehicle Ive owned and seems to be as reliable as a Benz. The only qualm is the cost of service is as expensive as Jags. Fortunately its never in shop though but for the scheduled intervals (every 10000 miles... awesome!). Ive come to the conclusion that the next vehicle upgrade will be for another S4!

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  94 UrS4 classic AWD performance/safety - 1994 Audi S4
  By Brian - January 30 - 3:35 pm

  I have owned my dark green on ecru leather S4 for over 2 years now, and I love it. It is costly to maintain, but it is very safe and fun to drive. Roomy for everyone and comfortable. The 5 spd is beautiful and the turbo makes this car Porsche fast! I have 107k on it now, perhaps I will keep it forever. I get about 22 mpg. It is lowered and has 17 inch BBS wheels on it. It stops, corners, and drives excellent. ***** star crash rating keeps me driving this with ease and poise. A few AMGs, WRXs, and R32s know what these are, but for most it is a sleeper. I have only had it up to 125 mph, but I have heard it will go 165 mph easily if you had the space to do it! IA chip, fun car, find one-love it.

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  Audi S4 - 2007 Audi S4
  By searly1 - January 26 - 8:49 am

  Outstanding performance agile and responsive excellent braking and steering more comfortable than its BMW counterpart great engine sounds excellent build quality. The only disadvantage, which is a given for this kind of performance, is relatively poor mileage... 22 on open road.

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  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).

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  Great Everyday Fun - 2001 Audi S4
  By DriveALot - January 16 - 7:35 pm

  I was looking at replacing my 3 series BMW when a dealer friend suggested that I would get more car for my money with an Audi S4. Boy, was he correct. Ive driven the car almost daily for over 5 years and it is always fun to get behind the wheel. Ive had no major repairs and its always a kick when I engage the turbos. Ive taken long trips and the seating is comfortable and the trunk space very adequate.