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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  4 door sports car - 2011 Audi S4
  By Howard - September 8 - 11:27 am

  I purchased my S4 three weeks ago. This car is a prestige model that has most of the factory options including the sports rear differential, and adaptive cruise. The basics such as Nav, bluetooth, etc.. are all part of the prestige package. I was concerned about losing the V8 with its great sound, but the supercharged V6 gives up nothing performance wise. The car is fast, nimble, and still gives you a quality high end feel. In addition, the adaptive cruise control is awesome. Its an expensive option, but at the end of the day when youre done racing around, you can kick back and let the car almost drive itself. This car is a sports car that wont beat you up when driven on a daily basis

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  Uber wagon, year round satisfaction - 2004 Audi S4
  By admiral - September 1 - 9:02 am

  What a great year round vehicle! Classy looks, classy interior, good handling, comfortable ride, 4 doors, wagon versatility, great power, all wheel drive, powerful brakes, and in my case, absolutely reliable, no problems. This car offers a combination that few, if any can match. Great engineering. Get your M3s out of the barn in the Midwest during winter. LOL

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  Fun car to drive! - 2011 Audi S4
  By Audi Cars - August 30 - 12:30 pm

  I test drove BMW 3 and 5 series, Infiniti M37 and Mercedes E Class. This car beats them all hands down in terms of pure driving enjoyment. I cannot wait to drive this car everyday, its that good. The acceleration from 0 - 60 will blow you away. It has a lot of power, yet is very smooth and handles extremely well. Its a head turner, Ive only had it for a month and had many compliments. The inside is very nicely designed, sound system is incredible and Nav is easy to use. The only thing they forgot on this car was the seat memory!! Drives me nuts. I know you can get seat memory as an option, I just overlooked it. Check this one out, one test drive and you will feel like James Bond.

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  The Ultimate Compromise - 2005 Audi S4
  By DJD - August 29 - 2:40 am

  I drove both new and used BMWs and Mercedes before I picked my 5-year-old S4 Cabrio. Havent regretted my choice for a second. I think of this car as the "ultimate compromise." You can speed top-down through the sweepers of Big Sur in Summer or tackle the hills at Tahoe in the winter. You can hoon it like a teenager, or ferry the kids to grandmas in safety and comfort. And oh, the engine! Its the finest engine Ive ever owned - power and torque and an understated rumble. Its hard to say how this car could be improved. A hint: the 2005 tends to be ~$10k cheaper than face-lifted 06-09 models, even though its almost exactly identical under the skin.

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  Incredible machine S4 - 2011 Audi S4
  By patriot75 - August 13 - 11:13 am

  Just got the 2011 Audi S4 for wife. Target price for this fully loaded car was $61+k. Only option left out was automatic rear and manual sun shades. Better to get tint at dealer. Have Mercedes E class that were great cars. While they were nice to drive the S4 is fun to drive. Stability and handling is superb and acceleration will set your hair on fire. Had Porches in the past and the S4 is just like driving a Porsche only with 4 doors. Feels like you are in a fancy go cart with a jet engine and a smooth ride but still feel connected to the road.

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  Excellent vehicle! - 2010 Audi S4
  By Larry - June 5 - 10:01 pm

  The car is absolutely, all around, excellent! I have owned a BMW M3, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes E350. This blows all of them away!! Fast, Fun, Quality and space makes this a best buy in my book! I love the style, gas mileage and absolute fun I have when I drive it. I read a review somewhere that said dont test drive unless you are ready to write the check. No truer words have been spoken.

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  Still wake up at 4 am to drive - 2010 Audi S4
  By 2fun - May 29 - 3:25 pm

  Was looking for a daily commuter that would still fit car seats AND be fun to drive. Found it in the S4. I still wake up at 4 am on weekends to go drive. It makes me smile every time.

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  4Door AWD Rocket! - 2008 Audi S4
  By ALCK3MiST - May 22 - 1:53 pm

  Only have had the car for a few month, but I love it more with each day. Silky smooth V8 with a brilliant 6 spd tranny. Pull exceptionally in every gear. Love the seats with the alecantra inserts. The Bose stereo sounds great, however the ipod adapter broke shortly after I bought it.

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  Almost perfect - 2010 Audi S4
  By CF - May 15 - 12:48 am

  This car is so much fun to drive and so quiet, I have to keep checking the speedometer to make sure Im not speeding. Build quality is excellent. The car feels really solid. The manual transmission is a joy to use. It even makes shifting suggestions. The car has so much torque that Im often in 6th gear going 50 km/hr and still have decent passing power.

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  Performance, Luxury and Practicality! - 2010 Audi S4
  By djs4 - May 11 - 1:33 am

  My last car was a 09 A5. I had considered the previous generation S4 but was wary about the fuel consumption of the V8 in the city and wanted the new B8 body style. I enjoyed the A5 but it left me longing for more performance (and 4 doors). Once I heard that the new S4 was running a supercharged V6 I had to check it out. One drive and I was hooked. Nothing else at the S4 price point offers the same combination of performance and luxury. This car is the ultimate sport sedan- step on it and youre gone or drive casually around town in Comfort Mode (w/ ADS or Sport Differential). If youre looking for a sports car experience in a versatile daily driver, this is your car.