Audi S4
Used Car Review

Overview

The Audi S4 is understated performance that lets its credentials do the talking. The Audi S4 might be exactly what you need. This understated powerhouse delivers serious performance wrapped in sophisticated executive styling. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want genuine thrills without the flash and attention of more obvious sports cars.

The S4 sits in the sweet spot between everyday usability and weekend excitement. Unlike flashier rivals like the BMW 3 Series M340i, the S4 keeps its performance credentials subtle. The exterior hints at its potential with quad exhaust tips and sportier bumpers, but it won’t draw unwanted attention in car parks. Inside, you’ll find the same premium materials and cutting edge technology that Audi is famous for, enhanced with sport seats and performance focused details.

What makes the S4 special is how effortlessly it switches between roles. During the week, it’s a refined executive express that glides quietly down motorways. At weekends, it transforms into an engaging sports machine with razor sharp handling and explosive acceleration. The latest models blend traditional petrol power with mild hybrid assistance, delivering both performance and improved efficiency. It’s a car that proves you don’t need to compromise between comfort and excitement.

What's the Audi S4 Like to Drive?

The heart of every S4 is its potent turbocharged engine, currently a 3.0 litre V6 TFSI producing around 354 horsepower. This sophisticated powerplant delivers its punch smoothly and progressively, making the 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 4.9 seconds feel almost effortless. The mild hybrid system provides additional low end torque and helps eliminate any hint of turbo lag. Power delivery is creamy and relentless, building to a satisfying crescendo as you approach the redline.

The S4’s dynamic capabilities extend far beyond straight line speed. The quattro all wheel drive system provides exceptional traction in all conditions, while the adaptive suspension keeps body roll firmly in check. Steering is precise and well weighted, giving you confidence to attack winding roads with enthusiasm. The performance executive saloon rides on the perfect side of firm, soaking up motorway miles comfortably while remaining taut enough for spirited driving. It’s a masterclass in balancing everyday refinement with genuine sporting ability.

Inside the Audi S4: Comfort & Features

The S4’s cabin merges performance-focused design with luxurious comfort in a way few sport sedans achieve. The cabin feels thoroughly modern and premium, with high quality leather upholstery and carbon fibre style trim creating an upscale atmosphere. The sport seats offer excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys. Build quality is exemplary, with every switch and control operating with typical Audi precision. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display is crisp and configurable, putting key information exactly where you need it.

Technology integration is seamless and user friendly. The MMI infotainment system responds quickly to inputs and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Climate control is intuitive, and the premium sound system delivers crystal clear audio quality. Road and wind noise are well suppressed, creating a serene environment that makes long distance cruising a pleasure. The S4 strikes an excellent balance between sporting flair and executive comfort, ensuring both driver and passengers travel in style.

The Audi S4 excels at being a truly dual personality car, seamlessly blending everyday usability with genuine performance thrills. Its understated exterior hides remarkable capability, while the refined interior creates a premium environment for daily driving. The combination of smooth power delivery, excellent all weather traction, and composed handling makes it enormously capable across a wide range of driving scenarios.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run an Audi S4?

The S4 proves that superb performance needn’t devastate your wallet with runaway ownership bills. The mild hybrid system helps achieve real world fuel consumption in the mid to high 30s MPG, impressive for a car with this level of performance. Insurance costs will be higher than a standard A4, typically falling into groups 40 to 45. The initial purchase price reflects the S4’s premium positioning, with new models starting around £55,000 and well maintained used examples from £30,000 upwards.

Servicing costs are in line with other premium German brands, though specialist knowledge is recommended for optimal performance. The S4’s strong residual values help offset higher running costs, making it attractive for both cash buyers and those considering car finance options. Regular maintenance is crucial for reliability, but properly cared for examples prove dependable. While it won’t be the cheapest performance car to run, the S4’s combination of usability, refinement, and strong resale values make it a sensible choice in the premium segment.

Audi S4 Practicality & Boot Space

The S4 successfully combines sports car performance with family friendly practicality. The 480 litre boot easily accommodates weekly shopping or a set of golf clubs, with a practical opening and minimal loading lip. Rear seats fold in a 40:20:40 split configuration, extending cargo capacity for longer items when needed. Interior storage is thoughtfully arranged, with door pockets, cup holders, and cubby holes positioned where you’ll actually use them.

Passenger space is generous for the class, with adults comfortable in both front and rear seats on longer journeys. The S4 Avant estate version offers even more practicality with 505 litres of boot space, making it ideal for families who need both performance and cargo capacity. For buyers considering used Audi cars, the S4 represents excellent value in the premium performance segment. Its compact dimensions make urban driving manageable while offering enough space for everyday family duties.

The Audi S4 delivers potent performance without sacrificing the understated elegance that defines truly sophisticated driving. It successfully delivers the excitement of a sports car with the practicality and comfort of a premium executive saloon. The current generation’s blend of turbocharged power and mild hybrid efficiency creates an appealing combination for modern drivers.

Choose the S4 if you want performance without the attention, quality without compromise, and versatility without sacrifice. It’s equally at home cruising motorways or tackling country roads, making every journey feel special. For buyers seeking a premium performance car that works every day, the Audi S4 should be at the top of your consideration list. With car finance calculator options available, it’s more accessible than you might think.