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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  The New Standard - 2004 Audi S4
  By SAaudi - April 8 - 2:00 am

  I have to say the new S4 is the most complete package available. Audi has mastered doing everything well: excellent fit/finish, top notch performance, class-leading crash tests, and the price is right. Just feel the materials, touch buttons, open and close things. Top Gear in England ran the S4 around a track a full one second faster than the M3 (1 second is an eternity in racing). It was nearly on pace with the Lambo Murcielago. So dont think youre getting less of a sports car than the M3. Its actually quicker and a bit more refined. Best car Ive ever owned.

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  Great Car with a Fatal Flaw - 2004 Audi S4
  By msp - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Great fit and finish, great power but what is it with the throttle response? So much delay you can stomp to the floor and let off before anything happens. Worse than a turbo. When it does finally get going it keeps on going even after you start easing off. Not safe in a car with this much power! Gives new meaning to "Unintended Acceleration". Evaluate carefully before you buy!

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  Stonking engine - 2004 Audi S4
  By Chippy - April 7 - 2:00 am

  I have been totally delighted with my S4. Its supremely well built, handles superbly and is great fun to drive - especially on quieter roads where you can race through the gears. But be warned, this is not just a fast German limo its a serious handling lump and the drive can be quite "involving". That could mean tiring to some. The suspension is *firm* and on poor roads at speed, you will be thrown around a bit. Taming the vast amount of torque through the manual gearbox takes some practice too - smooth changes are not to be taken for granted! But overall, a fabulous car

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  Awesome Ride!! - 2000 Audi S4
  By S4 Audi Guy - April 6 - 2:00 am

  I have owned 17 new and used cars over the past 25 years and by far this is the best! No other car has even come close to offering the total package that the S4 delivers. Handling, acceleration, braking, comfort,and luxury

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  The Audi Beast - 2004 Audi S4
  By Col. Lumumba - April 5 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Audi and it so far above the others, its in its own atmosphere. Bought it and put close to six thousand miles on it in two months. Freeways, Mountain passes, clogged city streets- the big Audi Beast (it even sounds like one) handled everything with polish, power and grace. The Recaro seats do an excellent job on nall day interstae cruises or back road burning. The 2004 S4 truly does it all. Just be prepared to pay at the pump as the thirsty V8 really drinks deep.

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  S4 - Audis Premier Sports Sedan - 2004 Audi S4
  By Lawrence Green - March 21 - 2:00 am

  This is one super automobile. Car is 4 months old with about 7500 miles. Performance is outstanding even with the 6 speed Tiptronic. Handling is superior with the 18 in tires. Car is a smallish, tight rocket ship with 340 hp and a V8 engine. Recaro seats are superb. Fit and finsih are superb. On- Star Telematics with built in phone is a real plus. S4 is expensive, but on balance, worth it. Unless you can afford the RS6, this is the car to go with. Forget the M3, go for the S4 with awd.

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  great car! - 1993 Audi S4
  By crymer - March 17 - 2:00 am

  This car truly is a great example of German automaking. Fast, fun, reliable, it does everything well. Quattro makes it able to drive fast in rain or snow when other cars just cant get traction.

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  MY AUDI S4 IS AWESOME - 2004 Audi S4
  By dkandel1950 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  I had been waiting for my lease to end and have been holding out for a car that offered performance, 4 doors, and all- wheel drive. The M3 only has 2 doors and a manual tranny The AMG lacks some sportiness, body style is ok but unassuming, also costs more too. This car hauls and the all-wheel drive makes the tires power all 4 wheels while gripping the road like glue. The tires are special continental 18 inch high performance tires that came with the car and are specially tested and matched to the audi S4 at the factory.

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  Twin Turbo Fast fun and practical - 2001 Audi S4
  By Zen Akita - March 10 - 2:00 am

  This car is safe, VERY Fast, handles like a super car and is Amazing in snow and rain. Is it the perfect car. I have found it to be. You may also.

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  Now, THIS is FUN! - 2004 Audi S4
  By jshuchart - March 10 - 2:00 am

  What power, what handling. The car Ive waited for...THE CAR!