The Audi S4 is a high-performance version of the A4 entry-level luxury car. It features hardware modifications that increase the car's capabilities in regards to acceleration, braking and handing.
Consumers interested in a car that combines performance, luxury and versatility will find a lot to like. One of the car's main advantages is its Quattro all-wheel-drive system. For most cars, all-wheel drive is typically employed to provide added traction in slippery weather conditions. Though the S4's Quattro system is certainly useful in that regard, its main purpose is to make sure that the S4's powerful engine output is put to good use. During cornering, the S4 feels very secure and stable as power is fed to all four wheels.
Other S4 advantages include high-quality interior materials and an attractive cabin design. It's true that other European compact sport sedans can provide a harder-edged approach to performance or a more prestigious image. Overall, we hold the Audi S4 in high regard and expect most shoppers to be drawn to the car's balanced approach to performance and comfort.
Current Audi S4
The current third-generation Audi S4 is available as a sedan, wagon (Avant) and two-door convertible (Cabriolet). Since the A4 is compact in size, it might come as a surprise that the current S4 packs a 340-horsepower V8 under its hood. It's matched to either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard. There are other performance-oriented modifications as well, including a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels with high-performance tires and more powerful brakes. On the outside, subtle styling accents and badges distinguish the S4 from the regular A4.
Inside, front occupants are treated to a comfortable and functional cockpit. Leather seating is standard, and interior trim, lighting and controls are all of high quality. Although the rear seat is fine for small children, adults seated back there will likely complain about a shortage of legroom. The Avant sport wagon provides up to 61 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.
The current S4 impresses with both performance and style. Power is abundant, handling is stellar and the cabin is superlative. The fact that it's available in Avant and Cabriolet versions is another plus. Its one drawback is a somewhat cramped backseat.
Those interested in a used Audi S4 should know that the current generation dates back to 2004. Relative to its predecessor, this generation offers a more powerful V8; it also features a convertible in its lineup, whereas previous generations do not. As you evaluate current models, also keep in mind that the S4 Cabriolet was spruced up in 2007, with new styling and a quieter top.
Past Audi S4 Models
Previous to this model, there were two other generations of the 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. If you look back at Edmunds' S4 road tests at the time, you'll see that 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.
As is the case for many performance-oriented cars, there is a chance that a used Audi S4 has been driven harshly. Many have also been modified for additional performance. Interested buyers would be wise to spend additional effort on vehicle inspection. Feature-wise, there is not much difference between the years of this generation, though S4 enthusiasts typically gravitate to late-build 2001s and 2002s.
The first-generation Audi S4 was a performance variant of the Audi 100 sedan (later A6). 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.