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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Fun but on second engine - 2004 Audi S4
  By dexters4 - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Great car, lots of fun, much quicker than previous S4, but reliability very poor, had to have engine replaced within first month. Quality otherwise very impressive, could get better mileage but with a car like this, who cares. Sealer service dept great, but rest of dealership experience terrible. Audi America has work to do.

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  If you have the means... - 2004 Audi S4
  By salmjo1 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Each piece is done just right: glorious motor, slick gearbox, fabulous seats, sharp styling, all the creature comforts. This car is just incredible to drive.

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  S4 vs M3, I have both - 2004 Audi S4
  By Audibmw - May 20 - 2:00 am

  S4 is soooo much more the total package. How can anyone drive an M3 and an S4 and really like the M3 , unless they plan on driving at the track. I am still not sure the M3 will beat it. And it will take so much effort trying. Thats the difference. And you dont feel like a "hood" driving an S4. It just goes and sounds great doing it.

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  Joy to Drive - 2004 Audi S4
  By doccybr - May 15 - 2:00 am

  This car puts a smile on my face everytime I get behind the wheel. It is not only fun to drive with its all- wheel drive "quattro" system, but also has the performance matching its handling. The tiptronic transmission is wonderful with smooth shifts, and if you want to shift manually, the paddle shifters are great behind the steering wheel. The engine has a wonderful sound and I love to drive the car without the stereo on just to listen to it. It looks great both inside and out. This is what Porsche would have built, if you could buy a sedan from them.

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  Great Car - 2004 Audi S4
  By kristopher9012 - May 13 - 2:00 am

  Never had any problems with it It is really great and for the cars size it is great on gas

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  Best Drive - 2004 Audi S4
  By gvanpelt - May 13 - 2:00 am

  I have owned several Audis including two high end wagons, a 200 Wagon and a 95 S6 Wagon, both very strong performing cars especially on the highway, but this car is at whole other level. Although the other two wagons were turbos the 340 HP V8 in the S4 is far quicker in any gear at any speed, there is never any turbo lag, step on it and it moves. The S4 is a great highway drive, but it is also has a sporter feel that my older larger Audis. Far and away the best car I have ever owned. I may buy a second.

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  Love/Hate - 2000 Audi S4
  By eastcoasttkd - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Love it: Fun to drive, especially in the twisties of the North Georgia mountains. Plenty of room for the family of four and trunk space for travel or sports events. Still my favorite car since my 67 Firebird Convertible (and drives much better). Hate it: In less than 35000 miles it has needed a new radio, transmission, clutch, flywheel, drivers airbag, and in-dash electronics. Also, on third set of tires (Bridgestones went at 6k and 17k). Most (including tires) has been covered under warranty (3 years only).

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  2004 S4 Brilliant Black - 2004 Audi S4
  By mwrose - May 7 - 2:00 am

  great every day performance car. With proper tires, a capable winter car. Very linear power delivery, well balanced handling, and suspension that works with the driver.

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  S4Joy - 2004 Audi S4
  By pedro3 - May 7 - 2:00 am

  This is my daily commuting car(110 miles r/t), and it is very sporty and handles exceptionally well.The suspension is stiff but the comfort of the seats more than makes up for that.Its great for a short haul or a multi-hour drive even though the back seat is a bit tight.The interior/exterior build quality is excellent.The gas mileage is a bit worse than I had initially expected at an avg of 14mpg. With this much torque and HP one could easily drive this car in 6th gear most of the time where I see 18mpg+, but the lower gears make for a lot of fun!The Quattro system is just as good as I remember from my old A4.

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  Amazing. - 2004 Audi S4
  By FrontLine - May 6 - 2:00 am

  Audi wasnt even in my vocabulary when I went to look for a new car but I passed it walking out to test drive a few Porsche vehicles and thought, what a beautiful understated car. I went out in the Porsche and went back and said lets take the S4 out. Needless to say 100mph through a cloverleaf with no traction loss and I was sold. Its a beautiful car inside and out my ONLY complaint is the cupholder in the dash stinks.