- 2008
2009 Audi S4
- Used Audi S4
Audi S4 - What the Auto Press Says
Only available as a convertible, the Audi S4 leaves critics impressed with its top-notch handling.
Model Overview
The S4 is a performance-tuned variant of the Audi A4, which ranks well in the class of upscale midsize cars for its strong handling dynamics, high-end features and exquisite interior fit and finish. Its engine power, however, trails rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Where the A4 falters, the S4 succeeds; it features 340 horses and upgraded performance components. Overall, test drivers are impressed with the results.
The S4 is currently only available in a cabriolet (convertible) trim. The high-performance RS-4, as well as both sedan and wagon body styles, have been discontinued for 2009.
- +"With performance this impressive, Audi hopes to compete with the BMW M3 sedan and Mercedes C63 AMG." -- Eurotuner
The Bottom Line
The '09 S4 is a powerful and capable sports convertible that's sure to deliver loads of excitement. However, before signing on the dotted line, be sure to test drive the BMW M3 convertible. It starts at roughly $9K more, but features 74 more horse power and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph much quicker. Plus BMW's M-line is arguably more popular than Audi's S.
Performance Dynamics
Though initial reports claim that the S4's V8 engine has been replaced with a supercharged V6, the Audi website states that the '09 model still features a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 340-horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 302 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the EPA reports that the S4 nets 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. With an optional Tiptronic automatic, its city/highway fuel economy is 14/21 mpg.
Performance-enhancing handling components include a Servotronic speed-sensitive steering, sport suspension, and a Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Stopping the S4 is a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake pressure Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
Also standard on the S4 is Audi's Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), which uses the vehicle's ABS, EBD, Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), and traction control systems to brake individual brakes in such a way that the vehicle safely stays on its intended route.
While the 2009 S4 has yet to be extensively test driven, auto writers are thus far pleased with its performance abilities.
- "Audi's 4.2-liter V-8, which is also used in the automaker's larger models, was modified to fit into the S4's compact engine compartment. Audi says the S4 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds when equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox. A specially tuned exhaust system is installed. A six-speed automatic transmission that features a manual-shift provision is available." -- Cars.com
- "With the manual, the car loses a noticeable 77 pounds mostly off the front end, reducing overall weight to 3,638 pounds (some 231 pounds less than the previous S4). The shifts catch quickly, and we could hear the supercharger just enough to feel like a badass. We could do with less throw on the shift lever, but we cannot slight the shift action itself. Meanwhile, this seven-speed S tronic is Audi's first dual-clutch transmission joined to a longitudinally positioned engine, not to mention the company's first dual-clutch unit that's designed to withstand serious torque. Of course, the transmission's action reduces supercharger whine to a whisper except for a brief interlude between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm at full throttle, and that's no fun. We'd like much larger shift paddles and a more assertive sense of crisp shifts, but the system works very well all the same." -- Edmunds
- "Of course, it wouldn't be an Audi without its Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system (40/60 split), plus the addition of sport suspension for great off-the-lot handling" -- Eurotuner
