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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Audi S4 2000 - 2000 Audi S4
  By pepe313 - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Superb! If you like performance, this car is spectacular - especially for the money.

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  So far so good - 2000 Audi S4
  By Sam Dushkin - May 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my S4 in July of 2000. After the break in period I started to really let it out, and boy what a blast! The car handles beautifully! The S4 desperately wants to cruise at 80mph all day, and you have to practice serious restraint to maintain responsible driving practice. Since 2000 I have only had a problem 2 minor problems: 1)The horn, which after a good prolonged blast (think: NYC traffic)looses "pressure" and is rendered inoperative - Ive "fixed" it twice so far. 2)The low profile Bridgestone Potenza tires that came with the 2000 model are not suitable for winter driving. Even with Quattro!

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  A wolf in sheep’s clothing - 2000 Audi S4
  By tonyatcovista - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I have owned a lot of cars through my years and this is the only car that makes me feel like the day one feels the first day they pick up a new car. The S4 is not a (deep) snow car nor is an off road car but a car that can rocket you out of a turn like no other turbo I have ever owned or driven. This car is an absolute must. Get one now

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  Fun ride - 2001 Audi S4
  By cochranm - May 8 - 2:00 am

  This is the fastest car Ive driven. Not only is this car fast, but it corners on a dime. Id be willing to bet you could take almost any car on a wet road around corners. I knew this was a nice car, but had no idea of the craftmenship until I started driving. Like most people, I wanted a safe, reliable, fast, good mileage AWD vehicle. This was my number one choice after driving the X-Type and 330XI. The price was cheaper and Ill be honest it out performed its competition.

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  A Nightmare - 2002 Audi S4
  By Dlp - May 6 - 2:00 am

  I had my car for about a year and it has been it the shop for evertyhing more than once and even something three times. The car has been in the shop more than 50 days altogether. For things like brakes , transmission, abs , Electronic stability system , reverse lights, tiptronic, auto dimming mirrors. The best part is that Audi told me that even though my car is so problematic and none of the defects is my fault that this car defects do not warrant a new vehicle. I pray that this situation will never occur to anyone else. If you are reading this think about what you are doing? (Purchasing an Audi)

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  Best 4 door under $50K - 2002 Audi S4
  By SPEEDY_SAM - May 6 - 2:00 am

  Superlative engine - has loads of torque. Can pretty much out-drag 99% of cars on US roads. Enables you to short- shift your way without any problems. Secure handling. Have taken it out to snowy climes without any slipping even with summer tires! Small size of car and narrow width pays dividends when tackling mountain roads. Able to position the car in the corners pretty well. Once kept a Dodge Viper GTS honest on Highway 1. I gained on him on the brakes and through the corners. He gained on the straights. If there was a bit of rain there would be no contest! Has nice distinguished looks - doesnt look boy-racerish. Its looks would be distinctive 5 years from now.

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  Great Audi - 2002 Audi S4
  By alan ross - May 4 - 2:00 am

  It goes very fast, feels very solid and all the while is very smooth. I received an A4 loaner and rode it all day..nice car but when I got my S4 back I realized what the 8K upcharge buys..all of the above. I will buy the next generation if they keep the computerized suspension to a minimum and hopefully they will put this CAR on a diet.

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  Best I ever had - Fun and practicality - 2000 Audi S4
  By Ron O - April 14 - 2:00 am

  Every aspect of the car is well thought out. The factory is very cooperative. The quattro is great in wet or snow.

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  What a Delight!! - 2002 Audi S4
  By Nelson S. - April 12 - 2:00 am

  This car is awesome to drive. Worth the money to buy. Upgraded the ECU on this car, went up against a new 2002 Infiniti Q45 with 340HP and I beat him, not by much but goes to show what an Audi can do against a car with 300+ HP. Would highly recommend anyone interested in one to go down to your local dealer and test drive one today!!!

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  2001 Audi S4 - 2001 Audi S4
  By krisko - April 9 - 2:00 am

  This is a very special and unique car to own. It is a Porsche fighter without a doubt, yet rather stealty and you can bring friends along. It is the biggest German bang for the buck. The cars that are comparable (M3, CLK55, C32) start at $10,000 more and go up rapidly from there. It is quick in a straight line, yet very comfortable and compliant.