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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  My Track Car - 2004 Audi S4
  By ashear - May 5 - 2:00 am

  I raced this car stock and it far exceeded my expectations. Zero brake fade, like the old model had. Tourqe from all speeds, I constantly skip gears when I normally drive, it has more power than it really would ever need.

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  s4 review - 2004 Audi S4
  By TRISTAN - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Car is the ultimate in luxury and performance..

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  MY 2013 w/110,xxx Mile Review - 2013 Audi S4
  By Charles - April 27 - 5:01 pm

  This is my 1st Audi and unfortunately my last, not because my experience with my s4 was poor but because Audi s4s will no longer be offered with a manual transmission. I am very impressed with my s4, thus far 1 unscheduled visit to the dealer to repair a leaking water pump (covered under warranty @46k miles). I now have over 110k miles. I went with a "Stage 1" software upgrade from Revo when the car hit 50k miles....best bang for the buck upgrade Ive ever done. 333hp in stock form to 410hp and torque from 325 ft/lbs to 390 ft/lbs, not only did I get a lot more torque (which is noticeable when overtaking) but my mpg improved as well! No other issues to report. I am due to replace my OE clutch. The ride is stiffer than in the past, I think the shocks are on their way out. The interior has worn well, no tears on the seats and minimal stretch marks on the leather seats. The navigation is a tad on the slow side (as others have mentioned). The car is heavy though and I can definitely feel the heft when I track it. Because of its heft, the brakes get worked thoroughly....on the street, you wont notice any brake fade (just on the track). Tire wear is even, perhaps due to the AWD system, you really dont need performance tires. The s4 has impressive lateral grip. Fuel economy has dramatically improved from 23.1mpg when new to now Im consistently getting almost 27mpg (mostly highway driving). In the 110k history with my s4, Im on my 4th set of tires (OE Continentals & 3 sets of Pilot Sports), on my 3rd pair of brakes (front), 2nd pair brakes (rear), and 1 headlight bulb replaced (right). Everything else, just fluid changes. Hope this helps any future owners......

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  The perfect car - 2002 Audi S4
  By Sigep112 - April 25 - 2:00 am

  This car is a blast to drive! Great interior quality. I purchased used (w/ 10,000 miles) and have not had any reliability issues to date. Very few S4s on the road, so its great driving a unique car. I have no complaints so far (except for the poor gas mileage), and would HIGHLY recommend to anyone interested in a used B5 S4.

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  A good alternative to an SUV - 2001 Audi S4
  By APB_S4 - April 23 - 2:00 am

  I own an 4-Runner and a 00 Boxster, but I need another car (Since Boxsters lease is ending shortly, and my mother wants to use the 4-Runner, plus, I am getting marry soon.) I pick the S4 because: 1) Fast, with a Chipped ECU it can get you over 300 hp and 350 tq/ft 2) 4WD, no need to worry about weather 3) Rich in features: comes with Bose stereo system, heated and 8-way power seat, glass sun roof, all dim mirrors, roof bike rack, ESP, etc. 4) Space is about the same compare to BMW and a bit better then IS300 in terms of cabin and rear trunk space. Compares with 325i Wagon or IS300 Wagon, I think this is a better buy ($$ vs features, comfort and power).

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  Hot S4 Convertible - 2004 Audi S4
  By Sebastian - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I just got my New Audi S4 Convertible and I am in love. Not only does the car sound like a monster and moves like one too. I cant stop myself from reving the engine at every stop sign just to hear the engine. Not only is it a star on dry roads but drives even better in the rain. There is no convertible like it outthere.

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  Not Close to an M3 - 2004 Audi S4
  By OLSONR - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Wide console rubs my kneecap constantly. Navigation system not accessible by navigator. No moving map. Just directions" on a 2X2 screen for a $1500 option. Wifes 1997 M3 gets 50% more mileage with same pickup. Torque-steer on front wheels annoying. Harsh ride. Gave back to dealer to sell with less than 400 miles on it. Will keep M3. A horrible car.

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  My 00 S4 - 2000 Audi S4
  By CharlyS4 - April 11 - 2:00 am

  The most fun I have ever had in a 4 door ride. My buddies 03 M3 is fun to drive but the S4 is a much smoother ride. The minor issues Ive had were all covered by warranty... wiper sprayer pump, plastic radiator reservior tank crack, etc. C.

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  Oh What a Feeling!!! - 2004 Audi S4
  By aamyot - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Unbelievable, smooth and powerful. A joy just to sit in and admire. Smoothest tranny I have ever experienced. Not a day goes by where either the color (Nogaro blue) or the Alacantara recaro (blue) interior doesnt get noticed by a passer-by!

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  Rockin Rocket of a 4-door! - 2004 Audi S4
  By AudioFileZ - April 9 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned this car for about 2.5 months and I still get excited everytime I get in and crank it. My exitement hasnt diminished a bit yet, in fact it has grown as I have learned to drive it (44yrs. old and never shifted gears before can you believe). This car is art. It is an amazing blend of ergonomic creature comfort, great looks, 4-door functionality, and unbelievable performance. It leaves very little left to add to the mix since it is so potent and so driveable.