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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  S4 Review - 2004 Audi S4
  By cayennes5 - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I have always owned Audis i traded in A Bmw M3 for this one what a great car fun to drive in the snow as well its amazing how much difference there is in the upgrade kind of hard to drive anything else. handling is very impressive in rain and snow.

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  4 doors, 340 horse power, life is good! - 2004 Audi S4
  By Gasmanm5 - January 31 - 2:00 am

  What a great car! Tight, fast, great rumble, 4-doors- the ultimate wolf in sheeps clothing! Handling is excellent and the torque is ever present! The reviewer who gave it 5.5 stars must not have been hugged as a child! The m3 is a great car but so is this S4. I would take the M3 if I autocrossed frequently but for everyday driving in the northeast 4 season weather, the S4 is my choice.

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  Beats my BMW - 2000 Audi S4
  By carlylsdad - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Love this car! Bought it new in 2000 after test driving it.....the salesman said Id buy it and he was right! Have 50,000 miles on it and the only trouble was a wheel bearing at 36000 miles. Still drives like new. Put a Garrett Industries chip in it and it has 310hp and will drive up a wall with the 4wd. Great in snow with 4 snow tires and in the summer with 4 performance tires. Beats the pants of my old 540 BMW at 15 grand less!

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  Awesome! - 2004 Audi S4
  By Schnel - January 13 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent car, overall. It looks great, the build quality and fit and finish are top-notch, the Audi interior/ergonomic designers have outdone themselves, and the 4.2L V8 performance is incredible, as is the steering, suspension, and quattro- enhanced handling. This car is a truly an elegant sleeper!

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  Amazing car for the price... - 2004 Audi S4
  By Biff-S4 - December 29 - 2:00 am

  The car is incredible. Super fast, tons of amenities, superb build quality, blows most other cars off the road.

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  Stealthy, wild & fun - 2000 Audi S4
  By yobblue - December 28 - 2:00 am

  Have loved my S4 since March 04 - would have chosen stick, but couldnt wait to have one. I am just as happy with this car since day 1. No problems. Fast! Diplay panel is like jet dashboard - lights up red, and all passengers comment. I am still finding features I didnt know existed on the car. For winter geos - must have winter tires! Perfs only during other seasons- dont mix with all season - you lose the experience.

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  true stealth - 2001 Audi S4
  By sforza - December 14 - 2:00 am

  fast but some turbo lag almost no one knows how fast this car really is my 4th audi and not my last

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  Fundamental design flaw - 2000 Audi S4
  By Florida Owner - October 8 - 2:00 am

  There is a reason Audi stopped selling ars with the 2.7 liter engine. The engine is flawed BY DESIGN. The 2000-2002 S4s (B5 platform) all came with K03 turbo chargers. Given the way the 2.7 liter engine in the S4 was designed, this turbo does not have adequate cooling to prolong its life. IT WILL FAIL, even if you dont race or chip the car. When the turbos fail, it requires removal of ENTIRE ENGINE to replace them. This is close to $6000 in labor and parts. The problem can be avoided in the future by replacing the K03 with K04 turbos, but its expensive. This flawed design has contributed to the lousy resale value. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR! STAY AWAY!

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  Love my S4 - 2000 Audi S4
  By jprny - September 2 - 2:00 am

  This has been the best car I have ever owned. Fun to drive, but with the comfort, solidity, etc. you expect from a 40k car. 52000 miles & I still absolutely love the car.

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  Total Driving Experience - 2001 Audi S4
  By NMS4 - September 2 - 2:00 am

  I was looking for a performance vehicle that could carry more than a overnight case, and this is it. Its looks may not scream speed and handling, but that is just fine, since these outstanding features attract the wrong kind of attention.