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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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Most practical in its class - 2006 Audi S4
By jelinbra - October 27 - 12:01 amSimiliar to the M3 and CTS-V except it offers all wheel drive, which is huge in areas where you get poor road conditions. Highly recommended.
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All Weather Ripper - 2004 Audi S4
By The Colonel - October 3 - 3:27 pmBeat you on the track or on the way to Squaw Valley. Great for Urban driving as well as interstate cruises and backroad burning. Only design flaw: Failure of interior light dimmer to work sufficiently!
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Luxury Speedster - 2006 Audi S4
By Eugene - October 1 - 12:43 pmAwesome car! Performance, styling and comfort make this car so much better then the previous S4.
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After a year - 2005 Audi S4
By ravenn - September 24 - 3:43 pmIm coming up on the one year anniversary with my 2005 S4 B6 Sedan QM and dont regret it one bit. I drove a 2004 Audi A4 1.8TQM previously and the few minor complaints I had with it are gone in the S4. The power is awesome, handling is crisp, loves the mountain roads and the freeways equally. Its a little soft for the racetrack, but the recaro seats grip wonderfully. The Bose sound package is nice, except for the auto volume control-had some annoying issues with that. Im also glad I got in before they change the body style-cant say that Im a fan of the fishmouth grill. So, a year later, I still love the car. I have a smile on my face everytime I go to drive it. Well built and safe.
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fun to drive - 2005 Audi S4
By rad97 - September 21 - 7:47 pmI was trying to decide which car to lease, so I test drove BMW 330, Lexus GS430, Infiniti M45 and FX45. They were all good cars, but for the money and performance the Audi S4 sedan was the best. For 49K you get the fastest and best handling car with all wheel drive to boot. Only complaint is small fuel tank and having to switch to snow tires for the winter.
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GREAT CAR ! - 2005 Audi S4
By SERGIO - September 16 - 4:08 pmGreat car, a blast to drive, fit and finish superb. Amazing fuel economy for a v8. will satisfy anyone. AWD is extremely helpful.
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Amazing - 2018 Audi S4
By K Rein - September 16 - 9:23 amI purchased the S4 a couple months ago after researching many other similar vehicles, to include BMW and MB. I came from a 2011 Infinite G37X and while I loved that car, you really cannot compare the two. The Audi is simply the best vehicle I have ever driven. My S4 has the Napa leather package and the S Sport package which I highly recommend. This car handles amazing, it actually feels like there is someone sitting behind me steering my rear wheels while taking turns or curves at a higher speed. The six piston brakes are awesome also. Anyone who nit picks the steering, suspension, brakes, transmission or anything else on this car is being ridiculous. This car is solid all the way around and this review is coming from your everyday guy. There is nothing I dont love about this car, I look forward to getting into it everyday. Lastly for you audio enthusiasts, the Bang & Olufsen stereo is also amazing. The louder you play it the better it gets. I hope this review helps you when you are trying to make your decision.
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German Gem - 1994 Audi S4
By S4 guy - August 30 - 1:36 amA great performance/luxury car thats a steal at the values it can be bought at now. Quattro never ceases to amaze me, even in the dead of Canadian winters. (4 wheel drifts in the snow are a lot of fun too!) Overall its been a wonderful car.
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S4 Pure Fun ZOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMM - 2004 Audi S4
By Paul - August 26 - 3:15 amThis is an incredible ride. My first Audi but not my last. I was amazed at the handling. The (4.2L V8) 340 hp and 18/8 wheels matched with the AWD make for unbeliveable handling. Honest 0-60 in 5 seconds. The steering is so responsive it takes some practice. The fit and finish of both the interior and exterior are amazing.
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rocketship - 2006 Audi S4
By chuck williams - August 16 - 10:59 amI have owned a lot of vehicle and would have to say that my s4 is by far the best I have ever owned. the accerlation is mind boggling. The car handles at high speed better than my old m3. The sound of the motor is music to anyones ears. especially over 5k on the tach.
