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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Audi S4

The Audi S4 is the performance-oriented version of the Audi A4 compact executive car, sold by Audi since the early 1990s.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Audi S4 is the performance-oriented version of the Audi A4 compact executive car, sold by Audi since the early 1990s. It has been offered in sedan and, in some generations, wagon/Avant body styles, with quattro all-wheel drive and a turbocharged V6 in current markets.

Overview

The Audi S4 is the sportier derivative of the Audi A4, designed to add stronger acceleration, upgraded chassis tuning, and more performance equipment while retaining sedan practicality. It has been part of Audi’s lineup since the early 1990s.

Powertrain and performance

Current versions in North America use a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 rated at 349 hp and 369 lb-ft, paired with an 8-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive. Reported 0–60 mph times are around 4.2 to 4.4 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Generations and market differences

The S4 has gone through multiple generations with differing engines and technologies. Some European B9 facelift models used a turbo-diesel V6 with an electrically assisted compressor, while other markets retained the petrol turbo V6.

Equipment and positioning

Modern S4 models are marketed as performance sedans with premium features and available driver-assistance technology. Review sources describe the model as the smallest and least expensive sedan in Audi’s performance-oriented lineup.

Key facts

  • The S4 is Audi’s high-performance version of the A4.
  • Current North American versions use a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with 349 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.
  • The car uses an 8-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.
  • Audi has offered the S4 in several generations with different engines, including earlier supercharged and naturally aspirated V6 or V8 configurations.
  • The S4 is positioned as a sport sedan rather than a full RS model, combining everyday usability with performance features.
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Canadian context

The Audi S4 is sold in Canada as part of Audi’s performance sedan lineup and is relevant to Canadian buyers looking for a compact luxury sport sedan with all-wheel drive, a feature well suited to Canadian winter driving.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Audi S4?
The Audi S4 is the performance version of the Audi A4, offered by Audi as a sport sedan and, in some markets or generations, as an Avant/wagon.
What engine does the current Audi S4 use?
Current North American S4 models use a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 rated at 349 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.
Is the Audi S4 all-wheel drive?
Yes. Current S4 models use Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
How fast is the Audi S4?
Sources report 0–60 mph times of about 4.2 to 4.4 seconds, depending on test conditions and source.
What body styles has the Audi S4 had?
The S4 has most commonly been sold as a sedan, and in some generations and markets also as an Avant/wagon.
How does the Audi S4 differ from an RS model?
The S4 is the less extreme performance model in Audi’s lineup, emphasizing daily drivability and comfort more than the higher-output RS versions.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4
    Supports: Model history, current EA839 turbo V6 output, performance figures, and European diesel B9 facelift detail.
  2. Edmunds — https://www.edmunds.com/audi/s4/2025/features-specs/
    Supports: Current U.S. engine output, all-wheel drive, seating, and fuel economy details.
  3. Kelley Blue Book — https://www.kbb.com/audi/s4/
    Supports: Current 3.0-litre turbo V6, 349 hp and 369 lb-ft, 8-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive.
  4. Car and Driver — https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/s4
    Supports: Current specifications, 0–60 mph time, and top speed for the S4.
  5. Auto-Data.net — https://www.auto-data.net/en/audi-s4-model-499
    Supports: General model overview, drivetrain, transmission, and generation notes.
  6. MotorTrend — https://www.motortrend.com/cars/audi/s4
    Supports: Trim structure, standard equipment, and market positioning of the 2025 S4.