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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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 - 2010 Audi S4
  By dan - February 26 - 10:51 pm

  I love this car !!! I have had 3 beemers. an Audi A8L and an Acura in the last 7-8 yrs. This car is the bomb. Not too flashy but just the right amount of class. handles like a sports cars with a comfortable ride. The features in the car are topnotch. quality,Quality, Quality!!!

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  Rock Solid Machine - 2007 Audi S4
  By joel - February 12 - 9:44 pm

  After a long and arduous search and having owned many brands/models prior (BMW, Infiniti, Cadillac, Honda, Benz) I still keep coming back to Audi. Without a doubt Audi still makes the most refined and well thought out interiors in the world. I kept going back and forth between M3 and S4 and after much local searching was able to snag a low mile, pristine S4 from a private seller. Having owned an A6, 2.7T manual prior I was more than ready for a return. This car is amazing...it fits you like a glove, handles like few others on the road and is a practical hauler for life.

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  Wont be buying another one. - 2001 Audi S4
  By Scott - January 15 - 1:07 pm

  I bought this car used in 2004 for an independent dealer. This car is a lot of fun to drive and handles great. Gas mileage sucks, but its a twin tubo V6 with AWD so what do you expect. Past the fun to drive part I am really disappointed with the car. After 100K miles it has completely fallen apart. If Audi wants to claim to be a great reliable car they need to go back to the drawing board. Since October 09 to January 10 I have put over 3,500 in to the car. Now the O2 sensors (at least two of the four) have gone bad and that will cost me over $400 to get fixed. Its for sale and I will not be buying another one! Friends of mine are about to sell there A4 for the same reasons.

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  Almost perfect - 2010 Audi S4
  By MDT - January 2 - 8:58 am

  A drivers car with addictive torque - Dont test drive unless youre ready to write a check. The handling is crisp with little body roll. This vehicle has 2 personalities, one that allows the comfort, space, and utility to be my daily driver and a second that has power, handling, and an unbelievable sense of connection to the road...its almost perfect.

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  Great Vehicle - 2010 Audi S4
  By PG - December 23 - 8:24 pm

  I drove the S4 and ended up buying it with the prestige package, rear sport differential, rear side air bags, and silk nappa leather. Hands down a nicer quality car than the BMs I tested. The S4 is much nicer inside and out. The ride is smooth and the car is quiet, until you unleash the beast under the hood. The S4 handles great and is very fast, I highly recommend this car!

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  Very responsive in both handling and accelerating - 2000 Audi S4
  By Robert - December 20 - 3:19 pm

  This car is very responsive in both handling and accelerating. The ride quality is still good, but may be a bit too soft for some prospective buyers looking at sport sedans. There is a wide variety of performance after-market parts for this car.

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  A lot of fun - 2010 Audi S4
  By KGS - December 9 - 6:46 am

  Originally had wanted the A5. Drove the S4 after the A5 and absolutely loved it. The power is always available, immediately! The car is extremely well refined and quiet but can be a beast when necessary. Mileage is great. I love driving this car... every day. Test drive it!!

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  I am sooo glad.... - 2010 Audi S4
  By DR - December 3 - 1:20 pm

  I am soooo glad I recalculated the price of the S4 Prem Plus vs. initially ordered Avant Prem Plus with Nav, B&O. The difference was minimal and the enjoyment is not easily describable. This car is simply amazing -- the engine, Handling, quietness when cruising, growl when step on it, Inside is nicely laid out, and beautifully appointed. The 6MT is super nice I am coming off the latest gen BMW 3-series (E90) and this 6MT is much better (smoother, as precise, shorter) than the BMWs. The S4 seats are much more supportive and comfortable than the 3er with the Sports Package.

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  New Hotness - 2010 Audi S4
  By Tom - October 10 - 11:36 am

  Last 5 cars: Audi A4, Infinity G35, BMW 325, 328, 530. Wanted a German car larger than a 3 and smaller than a 5 series. This Audi is essentially a 4 series size. The back seats are usable. The car is flawless inside and out. The A4 was a better value but the sport seats not as nice, engine was a bit noisy at 85MPH with 6 speed. The S4 with a 330 HP 7 speed is composed in the city and a beast on the highway when you need it to be. Effortless power and stability. It is not quite as agile as a BMW 3 that has better weight balance but is more stable at speed since it is larger and safer. Audi excels in style, composure, beauty and in the S4 version is rare. 29MPG Hwy, 25 MPG city.

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  If I could marry this car, I would! - 2005 Audi S4
  By SSG_Wells - October 6 - 12:24 pm

  I bought this car when I was home on R&R leave from Afghanistan back in February. I had been researching the A4 for about 7 months and had every intention of buying that once I got to the dealership. As the Carmax dealer was walking me to the A4s I saw my knight in shining armor out of the corner of my eye. The girl opened the drivers side door and I was sold. I didnt even test drive the thing, and it was a manual so I had to teach myself, but trust me it was WELL worth it. I took a look at the A4s once I was done drooling over my soon-to-be new car and there was absolutely no comparison the A4 looked like a grandma car compared to what I was about to roll home in!