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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Great car! - 2001 Audi S4
  By AudiS4er - July 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive been the proud owner for more than a year now. With an added performance chip and new air filter, Im up to 310HP (above the stock 250). An unbelievable increase in power - worth every penny. The car rides great, handles well, but in need of escaping the A4 look. 2003 should be a nice change.

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  ULTIMATE SPORTS SEDAN!!! - 2000 Audi S4
  By Lionheart13 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I happened to be in the position to "test drive" this car. I havent driven too many cars in my life, but this rates as the #1 experince ever. Not only does this car come stock w/ more than ample power coupled w/ the agility of the quattro drive system but this car has tons of aftermarket tuning potential. Twin turbo induction that is only steps away from running 90% of the nations cars off of the road. This car here is the true definition of Phenom. Move over BMW this IS the Ultimate Driving Machine.

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  No Compromise - 2001 Audi S4
  By Fess - July 9 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this rocket sled for just under a year and couldnt be happier with the purchase. It flies. It takes corners like its teathered to the apex. It stops. It holds tons of stuff (particularly with the rear seats down).

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  Still in love - 2001 Audi S4
  By JakeS4 - June 26 - 2:00 am

  This car has smooth power delivery and great looks. The Quattro is excellent in wet and snowy conditions and delivers power well during acceleration. I love the six-speed transmission and the turbos allow passing without down-shifting. I cant wait to see what Ingolstadt comes out with for the next generation S4!

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  So much that is so right, yet! - 2002 Audi S4
  By Ross1113 - June 22 - 2:00 am

  Overpriced but delightful companion.

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  Audi S4: Boxster with 4 Doors - 2000 Audi S4
  By trulegnd - June 16 - 2:00 am

  --incredibly fast, nimble, comfortable, yet actually packs a back seat. --bought a used 2000 model for about 30k, about a year ago. The S4 is overall, the most satisfying and balanced car on the (used) market. It is very close to a Boxster with 4 doors. more stable than a 911, seats 4, and very snow capable, unlike the M3.

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  "S" is for superlative! - 2002 Audi S4
  By Orca Boy - June 5 - 2:00 am

  The S4 was my first foray into the "rarified air" of automobiles. Forty large may be chump change to some, but I took the investment with deathly seriousness. That said, the finacial outlay was definitely worth it. The S4 is by far and away the most enjoyable, and complete, car Ive ever driven. I spent many months comparing it against the BMW 330, Infiniti G35, and hordes of other, similarly priced rides. In the final analysis, while each of those cars brings something very special to the show, the S4 seems to bring EVERYTHING. Its fast, safe, luxurious, and--at least compared with Bimmer, Porsche, and some of the other uber- marques--sanely priced.

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  The Wifes Car - 2002 Audi S4
  By TMF - June 3 - 2:00 am

  After renting an A4 on vacation and being rather impressed, decided to look into an S4 when buying a new car. We suddenly became VERY impressed. The car is more than capable for the average driver and offers great performance for those who desire it. You would spend twice the money for a Porsche that has like features. A Suburu WRX is cheaper but then again its a Subaru!

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  Understated Performance - 2002 Audi S4
  By AV8R - June 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is a sleeper. It performs excellent under any road condition, whether it is dry, wet, or frozen. Acceleration and torque are outstanding even in stock form. Definately get a better bang for your buck with an Audi S4 vice a BMW 3 series. When you add comparable options (cold weather, sport, etc.) on the 3 series you a) pay more, and b) have a lower quality car. One look at the interior and exterior trim quality of the S4 will make you realize this.

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  A great ride and a great deal - 2002 Audi S4
  By jivancovich - May 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive returned to German cars after a brief stint with American. The S4 is just a great ride tight, fast, and secure. It holds the road in all weather even with its standard performance tires. I looked at 3 series BMWs and C series Mercedes before buying the S4. I had a BMW before but found both them and the Mercedes to be overpriced for what you got. The S4 is a great balance of performance and value.