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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Great car for a good price - 2001 Audi S4
  By WPU2003 - September 7 - 2:00 am

  I got this car as an early 18th birthday present. paid $29k for it online. This is probably the fastest car from 0-40 in the world, and i am saying this b/c you get your max torque at 1850 RPMs, so off the line you step on it and go. Since buying this car, i have dropped about 10k in APR products and im putting down 375HP/400 torque on stock turbos, mind you that 400 torque comes in at 1850 RPMS. Anyone who gets this car should get the ECU upgrade, because for <1000 dollars you will get approx 70HP/110 Torque. Car handles great w/ stock brakes, even better w/ brembos. Great all around stock car with loads of potential to be modified into a supercar.

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  Best Car Ever - 2005 Audi S4
  By RVT - August 30 - 2:00 am

  Seriously, I never had a better car than this Audi... It must be said that nothing compares to German Engeneering... The 4.2litre V8 with 5 valves per cylinder produces so much horsepower that you are just thrown in your chair when you touch the pedal... I drove this Audi, and I drove a Porsche too... Both were really fast, but this Audi has more to offer for a lower price so... really, If youre looking for a beautiful family car that drives like a Ferrari, the Audi S4 is your best buy!

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  04 S4 Review - 2004 Audi S4
  By estim8d - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Coming from a 02 BMW 3 series, I have high expectations, and I have to say, the solid, tutonic build quality of this auto is amazing. Quieter, a touch softer although still very stiff and accurate, this car rocks. Really enjoying it.

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  There is no other choice! - 2004 Audi S4
  By emmabryan - August 24 - 2:00 am

  If you live in the northeast, as I do, there is no other choice for under $60k. I have been caught in blizzards with this car and had no problems. I might have considered the M3, but what do you do when it snows? Stay home? I have taken bends in the highway at over 100 mph (after downshifting to 5th gear), and not gotten nervous or felt any lateral movement. People in their "fast and the furious" cars always try keep up with me. So far I havent had anyone come close....

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  S4 Civilized Power - 2004 Audi S4
  By wtoak001 - August 23 - 2:00 am

  If youre part of the WRX-STI or EVO crowd, the S4 is not for you!! The S4 comes with power to spare, but it comes in an elegant and well behaved package. It is gutsy, yet balanced and predictable. While handling is not quite M3 like, you will rarely miss it. Its throaty roar pleases when your alone, but you can also take the family for a Sunday drive. Overall, it is the finest automobile I have ever owned.

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  Amazing - 2005 Audi S4
  By ToothDoc - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Ive had the S4 for just over a month now, and it has far exceeded my expectations. Great engine sound, power. Build quality and interior fit & finish are top notch.

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  A must test drive - 2004 Audi S4
  By GSP - August 17 - 2:00 am

  If your in the market comparing M3 and the C55 AMG, you must drive this car. Easier drive than the M3, and not as showy as the C55. (sometimes you dont want people to know what you have). Quattro makes any roadway feel safe and stable, and V8 makes this car move.

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  One Happy Guy - 2004 Audi S4
  By DoltDodger - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Test drove several Mercedes, owned two BMWs, this car is about the perfect balance for me. I prefer the more immediate steering feel of a BMW, however Audi has done a great job with the steering in this car. (All wheel drive prevents it being any better.) I also perfer rear wheel drive, but this car doesnt have the obnoxious front wheel drive feel most AWD cars provide. The power is great fun, the ride exceptional given the performance envelope of the car. I cant find fault with the interior, & actually love the stealthy exterior. A BMW M3 may be quicker, but not by much, and the ride is much worse. Dont buy a performance sedan without test driving an S4.

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  The most camoflaged car on the road! - 2004 Audi S4
  By Bogue - July 30 - 2:00 am

  Third child came/ TT had to go/wife got minivan and I got a world class sports car disguised as a family station wagon.Audi builds great exteriors(Black on Black)and even better interiors(two-tone black/grey Alcantara,Recaro seats,both front&back seats).Bose concert sound is very nice but the throaty rumble of 340HP is even nicer.Quattro lends confidence that even in the worst weather my family is safer in the Avant than in our minivan.A note about gas mileage big V8s can have big appetites especially in city driving, however I found the highway gas mileage to be comparable to other V8s.

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  fun, comfortable, rocket - 2004 Audi S4
  By 47xuf1 - July 22 - 2:00 am

  I traded in an A4, which I loved, for this car, but this car is in another league from any other car I have ever driven or owned. The engine is just unreal. It pulls from any RPM. The handling is sublime and the interior is just beautiful. Every time I drive this car it puts a smile on my face.