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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Audi S4 review - 2005 Audi S4
  By Mainhitman - March 6 - 12:54 pm

  I have had an interesting experience with my leased 2005 S4 Avant. After one day with the car I noticed a large oil leak under it. To make a long story short, the car had a bad gasket, my dealer repaired the problem and Audi of America compensated me for the headache. Otherwise the car has been a joy todrive and I love this vehicle.

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  My 4th Audi - 2005 Audi S4
  By CT Audi Driver - February 21 - 10:40 pm

  My S4 is my fourth Audi, but my first with a big persons engine. Coming from a 2.8 V6 and 2 1.8T fours, the performance of this car is fabulous. I loved the interior on my first 3 Audis and this is a natural evolution. No need to change perfection, they just spiced it up with superb Recaro seats, and carbon fiber(optional) trim. Other than that, it is virtually identical to my 2002 A4 (which is to say, excellent). The exterior is great too, looking much more muscular than the A4, but not so much so that it stands out. This car is a true wolf in sheeps clothing. So far, its quality is consistant with my other Audis, excellent.

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  Excellent Bahnstormer, Minor Flaws - 2005 Audi S4
  By Steve - February 16 - 4:13 pm

  A unique car, if you focus more on content than styling. While the car is plenty handsome, it looks much like the lesser A4 - a car that is some $15k cheaper. The rims, spoiler and aluminum mirror housings help differentiate it somewhat. Looking at and touching the leather, wood and excellent plastics is a pleasure. All controls are precise, well-placed and expensive feeling. I chose this car for its more sporting nature than the A6, the more youthful attitude than the Cadillac CTS, and the extra doors relative to the M3. To my eye, it is better looking and sportier than the choices from Japan and the US. Finally, at $52K, it is significantly less expensive than V8s from MB or BMW.

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  yessir thats my baby - 2004 Audi S4
  By Sharon - February 13 - 1:01 pm

  Sometimes I believe my S4 leaves the road and soars through the air! It glides around corners, stops on a dime and is always willing to go faster than I am. It is beautiful and I still get excited everytime I slip in behind the wheel. Taking the top down on the freeway is wonderful. Sometimes I feel guilty about the as milage...but, well, what can I say, Im in LOVE!

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  Easy to live with - 2015 Audi S4
  By C.E. Gunn - February 12 - 2:09 pm

  The S4 does everything well. It is very quick, handles well, and brakes well. After approximately 11,000 mi. (in a year and a half) it is holding up well, and it still looks sharp. The miles are low because our summer drive is a Porsche Cayman S. The S4 is about as quick in a straight line, but it cant compare to the Porsches road-holding. (Part of the difference lies in tires.) At nearly 14,000 miles, we still feel this is a great car. The supercharged V6 is a delight, and the transmission works well with it. No problems to report. Update: After another 4,000 miles, we still think this is a great car. Will buy another in a year or two if they didnt mess up the V6. Update: At nearly 20,000 mi., we still think this is a great car. No problems to report. Highway mpg is in the 32-34 range.

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  A RUSH TO DRIVE THE 2004 S4 - 2004 Audi S4
  By danslucky2 - February 11 - 3:06 am

  I looked around for a hi-power engine stuffed in a small car. The M3 came only in 2 door/stick shift and the AMG didnt have the sporty looks and ride. The S4 has awesome power. I can hardly touch the gas pedal and this baby leaps forward. Cornering is easy to stick as all 4 wheels deliver gobs of power to the road. The ride is stiff (I prefer in a performance car) but so stable and smooth. This car doesnt wake up until at least 80 mph+ and it rides better as you go faster. Have had the S4 to 140 mph out in the country and felt like more power was available. Recaro seats are comfy for long rides. And of course, the rumble of the pipes catches the attention of folks nearby. Awesome car!!!

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  Phenominal - 2004 Audi S4
  By Hawk - February 2 - 9:20 pm

  The S4 is the most fun car I have ever driven The engine is a beast, with power through the entire range. I chose between the S4 and an M3, Ive never looked back.

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  One sweet ride - 2005 Audi S4
  By chuckg32 - January 27 - 3:21 am

  Wow. There isnt enough space in this review to do my Audi S4 justice. I was close to purchasing a BMW 330i w/performance package. At the last minute I decided to look at the S4. There is no simply no comparison. The fit and finish of the interior is the superb quality you expect from Audi. Its very comfortable, yet the Recaros never let you forget you are in a performance car. Speaking of performance, the acceleration is simply breathtaking, and the handling is very sure-footed, thanks to the quattro. The exterior styling is classy, with a slight aggressive edge to it. A perfectly understated sports sedan. The clincher? I got a better lease deal on the S4 than the 330i!

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  One sweet ride - 2005 Audi S4
  By chuckg32 - January 27 - 3:21 am

  Wow. There isnt enough space in this review to dothe 2005 Audi S4 justice. I was close to purchasing a BMW 330i w/performance package. At the last minute I decided to look at the S4. There is no simply no comparison. The fit and finish of the interior are the superb quality that you would expect from Audi. Its very comfortable, yet the Recaro seats never let you forget you are in a performance car. Speaking of performance, the acceleration is simply breathtaking, and the handling is very sure-footed, thanks to the quattro. The exterior styling is classy, with a slightly aggressive edge to it. This is a perfectly understated sports sedan. The clincher? I got a better lease deal on the S4 than the 330i!

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  Exceptional Drive - 1993 Audi S4
  By Dan - January 24 - 11:20 pm

  My 1994 Audi S4 is an exceptional vehicle. After 13 years Im ready for another option. I will keep the S4 in the garage and drive it into retirement. I have had absolutely no mechanical problems with it. It has a classic design. No one believes me when I tell them the vehicle is 13 years old. Only have 102,000 miles on it and plan on putting another 50,000. My son has requested the vehicle be placed in his name in my estate planning. Power whenever you need it on the highway. I would not change a thing.