Audi S4 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.67/5 Average
444 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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

Showing 131 through 140 of 444.00
  • Beautiful and Fast - 2004 Audi S4
    By -

    I just purchased my 2004 Dolphin Gray S- 4 with the premium and XM infotainment packages and I love it. The car handles, looks and sounds like a dream. You can take turns like you wouldnt imagine. The color is beautiful. I enjoy driving it more than my friends convertible 2003 M3 and have the advantage of 4 doors. You can really feel the difference a V-8 makes.

  • Great looker - very poor reliability - 2004 Audi S4
    By -

    This is my second S4 (I had a 2001 previously), and my 5th Audi. The design is great, interior elegant and ergonomic, and it performs great. But the reliability has been miserable. I only kept it for 6 months - it was in the shop every month of those 6 months. It went through brake rotors, had a coolant leak, an transmission cooler leak, the ABS system failed intermittently, and the check engine light came on (bad O2 sensors) twice. Probably the last Audi Ill ever buy - sad really.

  • Road Machined - 2007 Audi S4
    By -

    This is my second S4 a black on black automatic sedan with carbon fibre trim bluetook parktronic premium sound navigation and front heated seats. The car is sensational - even better than the first. The combination of the handling with the steering wheel controlled tiptronic transmission is fantastic. The navigation is a first for me and is a fascinating feature as in the bluetooth cell phone feature which is a must option in my view. This is a great road and highway vehicle it comes close to handling as well as my 2004 40th Anniversary Porsche 911 coupe with short shifter, sport exhaust and H&R springs. The AWD with snows makes for year-round fun in the northeast. In short, worth the $$.

  • Incredible Car! Buy Certified! - 2004 Audi S4
    By -

    Went from E36 M3 to M Roadster to B5 S4 to E46 M3, and now this B6 S4. What a difference! The V8 is a torque monster compared to the M cars, and handling is every bit as sharp and confidence-inspiring. Interior cant be beat, and Bose stereo works well. I think Audis nav system has a contract with the oil companies, as this thing will re-route you all over the country. Passing power is awesome, but clutch engagement is very tricky. Highly recommended, as long as you dont live in a city. City MPG is between 9-13! The fun factor is worth every gallon however.

  • Awesome S4 - 2004 Audi S4
    By -

    The S4 is a very smooth and powerful car. The build quality is excellent and the interior is beautiful. The torque range is very good and linear. I would like a little more steering feel and a little less body roll through tight turns. I love the exhaust note and turn off the stereo just to hear it(even though the stereo is excellent). I have a Porsche Boxster S which I love this car is great, just different. It is an awesome car which works as a daily driver except for the gas mileage.

  • Great Car - 2000 Audi S4
    By -

    This car is by far the best car I have purchased. I knew I wanted to go towards German Automotive, but I had no idea the excellence I was getting myself into with buying this S4. All my friends a drowning in their envy. I love this car.

  • 2006 Audi S4 quattro 4dr Sedan - 2006 Audi S4
    By -

    This is a great all-around car with few compromises. I traded a 2003 M3 for my S4. I love the S4s V8 rumble, MUCH better than the M3s metallic howl at higher rpm. The S4 is a technology showcase (w/ NAV.sys) vs the basic M3. The M3 wins by the numbers (0-60, slalom times, etc), but the Audi is easier to live with and more luxury. The AWD S4 pulls effortless out of a corner the stability system remains invisible unless real trouble is at hand.

  • Who needs a BMW? - 2006 Audi S4
    By -

    After test driving a new Corvette and a Boxster S, I drove the Audi S4. I fell in love with the S4! Great looks, the sweetest interior, and a cool sounding exhaust note. The MMI system and the Sirius radio help keep my mind from driving this car as fast as it wants to go!

  • The best Ive owned - 2006 Audi S4
    By -

    The moment I test drove it I fell in love. Have owned M3s and C55. Nothing corners like the S4. Rigid body, great handling, powerplant sounds like Mozart wrote the notes. Passing ability, and comfort are all just perfect. No reason to have a porsche. Trunk is huge, will hold two golf bags in comfort. I do not think I could have done better, and I test drove them all. Quality and finish are impeccable. Even the factory blue tooth, and navigation, as well as premium sound are superior. Good going Audi!

  • Audi Rocks - 2007 Audi S4
    By -

    Such a fun car to drive. Mysteriously fast, but you dont feel it because of the quietness inside. The build quality is bar none. Rock solid smoothness and handling. At first I didnt like the sirius/navigation/radio controls because I missed having buttons to push to change stations. Having now used the wheels on the steering wheel, I find it much easier and less distracting then those old push buttons. One downside of this marvelous machine is its gas mileage. Audi needs to address this issue.

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