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 The convertible version has been replaced by the S5 Cabriolet.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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  Practicality was never so much fun! - 2000 Audi S4
  By jatwrite - August 12 - 2:00 am

  The S4 is an outstanding overall vehicle for someone who likes to have fun driving but has practical needs too -- like a fold-down rear seat, decent trunk, four doors, etc. Also fun to modify: for $600 I bought a chip (APR) that adds 58 hp and 100 lb ft of torque, making torque 358!!! Quarter mile under 14 yet still a comfortable ride.

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  Perfect - 1994 Audi S4
  By abila - May 24 - 2:00 am

  Pretty cool for summer period especially on our road.

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  great car for a mechanic - 1993 Audi S4
  By car_nut - February 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought my S4 based on performance and longevity. What I didnt realize is the cost of operation. I saw these cars hitting 300k miles, many of them modified for extra horsepower. Well, I had many problems and could tell more were about to surface. For a car that had a sticker of nearly $50k you would think it would be bullet proof reliable. The drivetrain and quattro systems are incredible and a blast to drive in snow and push through turns on dry pavement. The problem is with all the other systems and components. This car never went 10k miles without some kind of repair or adjustment needed even when new.

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  e(S)tatic about the S4 - 2000 Audi S4
  By karshopper - February 16 - 2:00 am

  Unbelieveable car!!! Has tons of torque and tons of control. It rides a little softer than the M3 (good or bad based on the persons choice). The car is subdued for a "sports" sedan when you talk about exhaust note. Again, plus or minus depending on the owner. The Quattro is the best in the industry but because of the perf. focus of the car you need snow tire for the really foul weather (1-1/2 more of snow). The trunk space is good and again larger than its main competitor (the M3). The S4 is a amazing car with no turbo lag and almost limitless potential with small modifications.

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  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.

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  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.

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  Fun to drive but not fun to own - 2001 Audi S4
  By markk911 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  The car is fast and very fun to drive. The large trunk allows me to use it like a truck. Although, my experience with the car has been going down hill since I drove it off the lot. With less than 30k miles it is already making "creaking" noises in the cabin. The radio has already been replaced b/c of failure. I have the 6M tranny and the clutch has already failed (requiring the car to be in the shop for 2 weeks). Immediately after that it went back into the shop for a week for a failed thermostat. This is the last Audi I will purchase. I plan to sell it before the warranty expires.

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  The 2004 S-4 is a Solid Success - 2004 Audi S4
  By MisterDuck - September 30 - 2:00 am

  The 2004 S-4 has the best across-the- board torque I have ever experienced. Acceleration is superior even in sixth gear. The shifter is quick and precise, and the exhaust note is thunderous (though not for anyone who thinks a quiet, serene ride is a high priority). Handling is outstanding and ride quality is refined without compromising the tautness and road feel expected from a performance sport sedan.

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  This one has it all! - 2000 Audi S4
  By jatwrite - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Great performance, looks, comfort, safety, practicality & luxury-- for those who need to "have it all" in one vehicle, the S4 is hard to beat.

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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.