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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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:

• 

  performance machine - 2001 Audi S4
  By mbloom - February 14 - 2:00 am

  tremendous acceleration when you hit it, can carry the groceries, bikes, kayaks, and get through snow with ease. and all around great performer than is fun to drive. Opt for the standard six spped which is smooth as silk.

• 

  Oh my word! FAST! - 2000 Audi S4
  By Nancy K. - February 12 - 2:00 am

  Bought this rocket ship in April of 2000. Ever since, it has been the fastest, coolest car ever. I can beat almost any car on the road if I wanted to, (except for some Ferraris or Porsches or Maseratis) but it is the fastest, most luxirios sedan out there! I drove it out of the dealership amazed at how fast it is. The bi-turbo engine is wonderful. The interior is also luxirious, like all Audis. This is my second Audi my first was a 1996 A4.

• 

  None better!!! - 2001 Audi S4
  By DrewI - February 10 - 2:00 am

  I looked high and low (BMW330, MB320, Acura TL-S, Infiniti G35) for the ultimate sports sedan and the S4 was the only car I found without a weakness. The 6-speed makes drving fun again and the cars ability to blend just the right amounts of performance and comfort puts a smile on my face every time I get in. Its the first car Ive owned where I look for excuses to take the long way home.

• 

  best all-round car - 2000 Audi S4
  By lee j - January 19 - 2:00 am

  Ive been through everything in this car! Love the acceleration,smooth power.Handling is great,typical oversteer for 4 wheel drive.Great long distance too.Gear shifting needs to be tighter.As strange as it sounds i got hit at 70mph on the passenger side last summer,to be honest the car saved my life.Quality build.Quality Car!

• 

  S4 Review - 2002 Audi S4
  By RockyJohnson - January 14 - 2:00 am

  I was looking to purchase a vehicle to replace my huge 2001 GMC Yukon XL with a bit better milage and more performance. I looked into the S4, the 330xi, the IS300, and the Subaru Impreza WRX. None of them compared to the S4. The performance and smoothness of the S4 blew all of them out of the water except the Impreza WRX, but the build quality of the S4 made that difference quickly. The dealer service has been excellent, though the oil changes are a but infrequent.

• 

  Awesome Fun Car - 2002 Audi S4
  By Bill Bill - January 3 - 2:00 am

  Great car to drive. Handles very well, quick acceleration, good braking. All in all a great car to drive.

• 

  s4 rocks - 2000 Audi S4
  By higginv - January 2 - 2:00 am

  This car does everything great. If you have the chance to own one go for it.Fit and finish is the best. Quattro is worth its weight in gold. All wheel drive rules. Turbos are still spinning fine !!! 30,000 trouble free miles.

• 

  Awesome drive - 2001 Audi S4
  By daemon - December 23 - 2:00 am

  An unpretentious, fabulous drive. A sports car that can still fit the family.

• 

  Rims and Tires - 2002 Audi S4
  By pauliem - November 23 - 2:00 am

  I love everything about the car but the Rims and Tires. All Wheel Drive should be good up North. Not according to Audi. They tell me to expect no more than 7500 miles from these tires and I should change rims at least once a year. At $3000 a year that is not comfortable. Pirelli says if you can afford the car you can afford the tires. Check what you are willing to pay. I have gone through $6,000. The stock tires are horrible in ice and snow.

• 

  I think I have ruined myself... - 2001 Audi S4
  By BluecarsRgood - November 11 - 2:00 am

  I test drove some other cars this weekend, how will I ever be content to say nothing of happy with anything that doesnt perform like my S4? It does everything a car should. I even get between 26-27 mpg on the highway- which is were I drive it the most. I love the fact that it is exotic without having to try. I have alcantara seating, I get WOWs everyweek! The hardest part about owning this car, is obeying the speed limit. If you can, get one. You will not be disappointed. Oh yeah-- In a couple years, when my warranty is up- CAN YOU SAY 500 HP ! What a great idea !