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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Low quality performer - 2002 Audi S4
  By TDF - June 8 - 3:19 pm

  I couldnt be happier with the stock performance of this car. The price to performance and features ratio of this car cant be beat, and simple upgrades can make this car truly track ready. In the Northeast or snowy climes, no car on the road can touch it (B6 S4 and RS 6 aside). But quality, reliability, and dealer service is absolutely brutal. Electrical system problems are Audis specialty, but I have also had problems with everything from rattles to rivets popping to coolant pumps failing to leather spalling to ... Service quality and knowledge from dealers is poor (e.g. Audi service does not feel its necessary to rotate tires).

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  S4 vs M3 - 2005 Audi S4
  By lfbmdpc - May 20 - 11:58 pm

  Purchased 2005 old style fascia S4/6M with premium/cold pkg & upgraded stereo. Good fit & finish, raw power throughout the power band, and is a superb performance automobile that any enthusiast would enjoy.

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  Great Engineering and performance - 2015 Audi S4
  By Chris Falk - May 18 - 10:40 am

  The car is built and engineered well. The handling and acceleration are great (in dynamic mode). The instrument layout, interior materials etc are what you expect from Audi and German engineers in general. My only gripe is that there arent any USB ports in a 2015 model higher end car. It has 2 SD ports which personally I dont have much if any use for. However, its a small issue in the grand scheme. Ive only had to go to the dealer for a routine oil change and to date no other issues worth noting.

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  Best all around car - 2002 Audi S4
  By Dave Sanborn - May 17 - 1:49 pm

  I recently went through the experience of having our 1st child and after 6 months realized that a stable of 2 Porsches wasnt working very well. I have always been a Porsche fanatic and owned a 930 turbo and a Boxster. Knowing that I needed to buy a more practical car but realizing I wouldnt be happy with less performance, I stumbled across the Audi S4. This car is the very best all around car that is on the market. It offers a stock 250hp twin turbo engine (which can easily be tuned to 310hp) with a max torque at 1850rpms. This thing shoots off the line and handles corners like a Porsche. Its also very comfortable, fits a baby seat in the backseat, has 4 doors, huge trunk, and can handle snow.

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  M3 beater - 2005 Audi S4
  By mark - May 7 - 5:52 pm

  BMWs M3 really is a phenominal car quick, solid and good looking, but how many do you see around. The S4 is understated and, for an estate, very attractive. Straight line the BMW will win, driving entertainment and again the M3 pips the Audi to the post but for sheer aural entertainment nothing can beat a V8 (except a V10). Not only that, but Audis Quattro system means that 344PS is avaiable come rain or shine an awesomely inspiring piece of German engineering - next time Audi, a little rear bias on the Quattro and that sacrifice in grip will be more than made up for in driving entertainment.

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  My Electric Blue Beach Buggy - 2005 Audi S4
  By Steve Morris - May 1 - 2:07 am

  The Audi S4 Quattro soft-top is a beautifully manufactured machine. I think that the degree of attention to detail both fom both an ergonomic and design standpoint are about the best in the business. I have owned Mercedes Benz, Porsches, including a Turbo Carrera, a 1987 Maserati Quattroporte, GTO, Morgan +4, BMW Z3, but this Audi SA Cabriolet is the most "together" car I have ever owned. The 335HP V-8 coupled with the smooth 6 speed shifter is a joy. Sure, not Ferrari fast, but driving in Los Angeles is more about responsive on-tap acceleration and Quattro manuverability. The electric covertible top is a piece of enginneering beauty.

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  Drop Top Fun - 2005 Audi S4
  By newaudilover - April 27 - 5:14 pm

  Bought my 2005 Audi S4 quattro Cabriolet over a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 500, and 2005 BMW M3 Convertible. After a brief test drive, my wife and I were both very excited about this car. It had the leg and headroom I need (Im 65"), as well as the comfort and convienience my wife wanted. The performance is great in S mode, very laid back in Drive (the Corvette is much faster). The handling is great (equal to the Corvette and BMW, better than Mercedes). This cars fit and finish are wonderful. The navigation system is the best Ive used. I have not been this excited about a car in a very long time. I can even live with the low fuel economy.

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  S4 Cabriolet - 2005 Audi S4
  By Chris - April 26 - 1:14 am

  My 2005 Audi S4 Cabriolet is a total rocket! It was clearly built to appeal to men and it delivers with ease. I found the car more appealing than the BMW M3 Convertible. I particularly love the sound of the 340 horsepower V8 engine and the great 6 speed stick transmition. It has all the bells and whistles a luxury car should have. The electric top goes up or down in a flash. This is the most fun car Ive owned.

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  Gotta love that torque at 3,500 RPM - 2005 Audi S4
  By Jeremy - April 25 - 6:26 pm

  My 2005 Audi S4 Cabriolet is my third Audi to date. I used to be a BMW fanatic, but after I test drove my first A4 2.8 Quattro, I just had to trade in my BMW 325iC -- and I never looked back. I have considered the S4 for quite some time. So I said enough with the considering and it was time I got into one. Im more than glad I did! What a fun car to drive. It has excellent handling, like every Quattro model, enough power, and that V8 engine feels light. It has great smooth lines. It doesnt look intimidating, but yet its looks can be deceiving because of whats under the hood. The bad stuff -- as always, there is not a whole lot of room in the back. But for now, my 5-year old daughter loves it with the top down, and so do I!

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  Simply Gorgeous - 2005 Audi S4
  By Bob - April 23 - 4:21 pm

  Easily the best car Ive ever owned, the S4 Cabriolet is just beautiful. Its exhaust sound is creamy smooth, it has a much nicer a sound than my outgoing A6 2.7T. Its interior is perfect, the only flaw being that the rear seat armrests are a little intruding. Otherwise, its a very comfortable convertible. Its a much better value than a BMW M3 Convertible, which doesnt even have power seats standard, and a much much better value than the Mercedes-Benz CLK 55, which is $85,000. The S4, almost fully- loaded, is around $60,600. I love it more than any other car.