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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  This car is so fun to drive!!! - 2006 Audi S4
  By Matt H - March 8 - 12:48 am

  Ive owned my 06 S4 for 3 months now and I never thought driving a car could be this fun. The AWD, V8, and 4 doors are mostly why I chose it over the BMW M3. The 40/60 torque differential is also a big plus, but note that the S4s w/tiptronic do not have this feature. This car loves gasoline and I average about 17-18mpg overall, but if you can afford this car and you crave performance then gas mileage should not be an issue. The cornering is amazing and the AWD really keeps the car glued to the road. Ive even driven on snow covered roads with performance tires and had no drama at all. This car does everything.

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  Impressive - Sure footed - 2006 Audi S4
  By Frequent Buyer - March 6 - 12:54 pm

  I am a frequent car buyer that is infatuated with performance and style. My previous cars include, 3-Series BMWs, Sabb 9-3 Viggen, Lexus IS300 - all bought new. I seem to always a reason why I need a new car. So this time I spent a lot of attention to Audi S4, BMW M3, Lexus IS 350, and Infiniti G35 coupe. After considerable test drive, the German choices were obvious for their fun to drive feel and style. Considering the off track use of the car and actual fun to drive feeling for us non-professional mere mortals, the Audi S4 proved to be the best choice. It has been 3 months and has definitely proven to be the best choice from the dealership experience, to its outstanding driving pleasure.

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  Audi S4 - great fun car!! - 2004 Audi S4
  By Nick - March 3 - 11:28 am

  As the title suggests, I feel that this is a great car to drive. Its fun, has a great exhaust note (especially with my aftermarket exhaust) and provides for a very balanced driving experience. It might not be the fastest car out there for the money, but it provides for one of the best overall packages (quality of interior, performance, versatility, etc).

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2006 Audi S4
  By John L - March 2 - 11:21 am

  I have owned Caddys Lexus Lincolns BMW and Mercedes. This car, especially since it is a convertible, is the best car I have ever owned. Fast response. Tons of power. Great on highway and especially fun going through the mountains. Im 6 1" and I cant believe the spacious feeling even when the top is up.

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  Great car - 2000 Audi S4
  By Rick - January 28 - 6:41 pm

  I have the car three years and only mods were a APR chip and K&N. Big difference in performance and has been very reliable. Had to do timing belt and water pump at 72000 because water pump puked. Very expensive part of the ownership. Car is awsome and very aatractive. Used it for a work commuter for a year but found gas expensives forced car to become weekend toy.

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  Ds S4 - 1994 Audi S4
  By Dcasanovas - January 24 - 11:46 am

  I have owned my pearl white 94 S4 for two years now and couldnt be happier. Prior I had owned a black 94 S4 which I also loved and I believe was instrumental to my survival of a serious accident. Based on that, I purchased my current S4. It is fun to drive, comfortable and, for a turbo charged car offers great gas mileage (I have gotten 500 miles/tank on long distance- highway drives). While my vehicle currently has 191,000 miles (it is my daily driver) and I realize I will need to purchase something newer at some point I will never get rid of this car.

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  AMAZING!!!!! - 2000 Audi S4
  By burningrubber - January 15 - 3:06 am

  The Audi S4 is about the most amazing vehicle that I have ever driven. This completely outdoes any corvette. I just drove the new C6 and my S4 is faster and more fun to drive, and much more of an everyday car!! I give it hands down to Audi for their amazing technology and design.

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  great car, not as good as the old one - 2006 Audi S4
  By marc - January 13 - 3:25 pm

  I have owned my 05 S4 of one year and 15000 miles. I still dont like it as much as my old 00 model with the bi- turbo. If I had never driven that, Id be in love with this. This is a great car for sure, but the 00 was better. Faster, tighter, more torque. This car loves gas, and at $2.60 a gallon, loves alot of it. The 00 was more economical too. The heating and ac in this 05 cant be adjusted right. You either freeze of die from heat. The dealer says its a new system-I like the old one better! Oh well only 2 years more on my lease.

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  Eager Power - Needs more fun-to-drive. - 2004 Audi S4
  By Greybeard - December 26 - 10:56 am

  Great ride - Im a 4X BMW and former TT (225hp) owner. Love the power, stealth and sound. Went to Audi after BMW Banglized and moved the clutch release point to top of throw. The S4 borders on a true drivers car. A very stable platform, wonderful, thrilling, power and great sounds. But misses on the fun-to-drive factor. AWD? - the thrill of the corner is not there. Almost oh-hum. Theres a corner on my way home that takes skill to traverse at speed. 528i-76 mph (thrilling), TT- 82 MPH (fun), S4-88 MPH stock rubber, 92 with better rubber - but no thrill. Seems like I live at the gas pump. Why do Audis have to be reprogrammed for keybob actuation of windows remote up/down.

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  This Thing Rips - 2005 Audi S4
  By bcze1 - December 1 - 3:29 pm

  Amazing all around package. Perfect compromise for those who need cargo space and the ability to blow the doors off anything with a Hemi. I ski a lot, and once the snow tires are on, there is no better, or faster, way to the mountains. Also, nobody does better interiors than Audi. Top-notch materials, easy to operate, and everything right where it should be. Its great when in a car this fast you dont have to take your eyes off the road to turn down the stereo.