Audi S4

Audi redesigned the S4 for its fifth generation with sharper lines and creases. The powertrain was all-new. A turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 replaced the previous supercharged engine of the same size, but it added horsepower and cut the 0-60 mph time to 4.4 seconds. An eight-speed automatic took the place of both the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and the six-speed manual; it sent power to all four wheels via the standard Quattro® all-wheel-drive system. Fuel economy improved to 24 mpg combined (21 city/30 highway).

While the S4 was sporty in every form, it came into its own with the available adaptive shock absorbers that were teamed with a torque-vectoring rear differential. The S4 offered engaging driving dynamics, although not quite up to the same standard as the BMW M340i. 

Inside, Audi's Virtual Cockpit 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster was available, and an 8.3-inch infotainment screen controlled by a dial was standard at launch. In 2020, the infotainment changed to a touchscreen interface with a 10.1-inch screen.

The S4 returned for its fourth generation as a sedan only on the B8 platform. The wagon was dropped and the convertible eventually became the S5 cabriolet. This generation was wider and longer, which contributed to a welcome improvement in interior space.  

Under the hood, a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 replaced the sonorous 4.2-liter V8. It made the S4 quicker and improved fuel economy considerably. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission replaced the former six-speed automatic, and a six-speed manual was still offered. Fuel economy improved by six mpg to as high as 21 mpg combined.

Audi’s Quattro® all-wheel drive was once again standard, and Audi introduced a torque-vectoring rear differential for the first time. Adaptive dampers were also available, and selectable drive modes were added during the generation’s run.

Audi’s MMI® infotainment system was updated for this generation, but it was still controlled via a dial on the center console. The S4 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring.