Audi Australia has brought in the S4 in both sedan and wagon (Avant) form. Based on the all-new fifth-generation B9, these cars will now sit as the most high performance versions of the A4 range until the flagship RS4 arrives.
Arriving at under $100,000 for the first time, it’s over $6k cheaper than it was previously, the new-but-familiar-looking S4 is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine but now ditches supercharging in favour a single twin-scroll turbocharger. With 260kW and 500Nm on tap, the newer Porsche co-developed EA838 engine is more powerful than the outgoing one and should deliver just as much low-end shove with peak torque arriving at 1,300rpm.
The switch to a turbo, according to Audi, is justified by stronger fuel efficiency and a better performance higher up in the rev range. With 100km/h arriving in just 4.7 seconds, the all-wheel drive S4 it is definitely more than accelerative enough, though not by much over the older B8.
Another switch Audi made in the transition to the newer S4 is in regards to the transmission. Gone is the 7-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch and in its place is an 8-speed torque converter automatic. It’s said to be a smoother transmission over the kind of driving that a typical S4 owner might subject it to (especially at in-town speeds) and is ultimately more reliable, if lacking those pin-sharp shifts.
Audi also elected to use a ‘conventional’ automatic in the RS7 and a move away from the dual-clutch might also be reiterated for the upcoming RS4 if concerns over torque and longevity.
Inside, the standard cabin’s leather upholstery has been replaced with Alcantara sports seats, more aluminium, three-zone automatic climate control, a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, and the Audi Virtual Cockpit as standard.
This of course, works in tandem with the usual top-centre-mounted MMI touchscreen, and replaces the analogue instrument cluster with a high-resolution 12.-3-inch digital display. In addition, there’s 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlamps, alloy pedals, and a full suite of safety kit including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and autonomous emergency braking.
- Audi S4 Sedan (B9) - $99,900
- Audi S4 Avant (B9) - $102,900
There are also some kit that can be optioned for the S4 including the torque-vectoring sport differential ($2,950) and dynamic steer system ($2,210). The S Performance pack ($5,900) adds more interior bling in the form of Nappa leather seats and carbon trim.
For more on Audi vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
