When we’re shopping for a luxury sedan that perfectly balances performance and everyday practicality, Audi’s A4 and S4 models consistently top our consideration list. Both vehicles share the same sophisticated platform and premium German engineering, yet they cater to distinctly different driving personalities and budgets.
The A4 delivers refined elegance with impressive fuel efficiency, while the S4 unleashes exhilarating performance that’ll pin you to your seat. We’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel of both models to understand which one truly deserves a spot in your driveway.
Whether you’re prioritizing comfort for daily commuting or craving the rush of turbocharged acceleration, we’ll break down every crucial difference between these two exceptional sedans. From engine specifications and interior features to real-industry ownership costs, we’ll help you make the smartest decision for your lifestyle and budget.
Performance and Engine Specifications
Performance distinctions between these Audi sedans become most apparent when examining their engine technologies and power delivery systems. Both models showcase German engineering excellence while targeting distinctly different driving experiences.
A4 Engine Options and Power Output
The Audi A4 features a 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant delivers smooth acceleration through a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission across all trim levels. Front-wheel drive comes standard on base models while Quattro all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability in Premium Plus and Prestige variants.
Fuel efficiency remains a key A4 advantage with EPA ratings of 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for front-wheel drive models. Quattro-equipped versions achieve 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway while maintaining confident performance characteristics. The engine’s variable valve timing and direct injection technology optimize both power delivery and fuel consumption across different driving conditions.
S4 Performance Capabilities and Turbocharging
The Audi S4 elevates performance significantly with its 3.0-liter TFSI V6 turbocharged engine generating 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This sophisticated powerplant incorporates a single twin-scroll turbocharger and mild hybrid technology for enhanced responsiveness and efficiency. Standard Quattro all-wheel drive transfers power through an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission optimized for performance applications.
Advanced engine technologies include a 48-volt mild hybrid system that provides additional torque during acceleration while reducing fuel consumption during cruising. The turbocharger’s position within the V6’s cylinder banks minimizes lag and maximizes power delivery throughout the rev range. Sport exhaust systems with adjustable sound profiles complement the engine’s performance characteristics.
Acceleration and Top Speed Comparison
| Performance Metric | Audi A4 | Audi S4 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph acceleration | 6.8 seconds | 4.4 seconds |
| Quarter-mile time | 15.2 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Top speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 349 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
Acceleration differences showcase the S4’s performance-oriented design with its 2.4-second advantage in 0-60 mph sprints compared to the A4. The S4’s additional 148 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque translate into substantially quicker quarter-mile times and higher top speed capabilities. Electronic speed limiters restrict both models from reaching their theoretical maximum velocities on public roads.
Launch control systems optimize S4 acceleration by managing wheel slip and power delivery during aggressive starts. The A4 prioritizes linear power delivery for everyday driving scenarios rather than maximum acceleration performance. Both engines feature aluminum construction and advanced thermal management systems that maintain consistent performance under various operating conditions.
Design and Exterior Differences
Visual distinctions between the Audi A4 and S4 extend beyond performance specifications to create distinct aesthetic identities. Each model targets different buyer preferences through carefully crafted design elements that reflect their intended driving experiences.
Body Styling and Aesthetic Features
The Audi A4 showcases conservative and family-friendly design language with clean lines and balanced proportions. Its understated appearance appeals to drivers seeking refined elegance without aggressive styling cues.
The Audi S4 transforms the A4’s foundation with bold sporty enhancements that command attention. Body-color rear spoilers create aerodynamic efficiency while adding visual drama to the rear profile. Decorative grille detailing distinguishes the S4’s front fascia from its standard counterpart. A unique rear diffuser panel integrates seamlessly with quad exhaust outlets to emphasize the model’s performance capabilities.
These exhaust outlets serve both functional and aesthetic purposes by channeling the V6 engine’s enhanced sound while creating a commanding rear presence. The aggressive design elements work together to communicate the S4’s higher performance potential before drivers experience its acceleration capabilities.
Wheel Options and Sport Package Elements
Standard wheel configurations reflect each model’s distinct positioning in Audi’s lineup. The A4 features 18-inch wheels paired with all-season tires that prioritize comfort and year-round usability.
The S4 elevates the wheel package with standard 19-inch wheels wrapped in summer performance tires. These larger wheels enhance handling precision while the specialized tire compound improves grip during spirited driving. Summer performance tires provide superior traction compared to all-season alternatives but require seasonal consideration in colder climates.
Sport S package availability on the S4 introduces advanced chassis technologies including sport rear differential and adaptive damping suspension. Ever-changing steering with speed-adjustable variable ratio adapts steering response based on vehicle speed to optimize control across different driving conditions.
Both models feature Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system with notable differences in implementation. The S4 uses regular quattro AWD architecture while select A4 variants employ quattro ultra with fuel-saving rear axle disconnect functionality. Interior enhancements in the S4 include S sport seats with adjustable side bolsters and massage functions, stainless steel pedals, and Carbon Atlas interior trim that reinforce the performance-oriented design theme.
Interior Features and Technology
Both Audi models deliver premium cabin experiences that reflect their distinct personalities. We examine how interior design choices and technology features differentiate these sedans.
Cabin Layout and Material Quality
The Audi A4 presents a sophisticated cabin environment featuring premium materials like leather upholstery and wood trim options. Clean lines and refined aesthetics create an atmosphere focused on everyday luxury and comfort.
Audi S4 cabin design emphasizes performance through sport-oriented enhancements including Carbon Atlas interior trim and stainless steel pedals. Leather and artificial suede upholstery combinations establish a more ever-changing ambiance that signals the car’s athletic capabilities.
Material selection differs between models with the A4 prioritizing traditional luxury elements while the S4 incorporates motorsport-inspired finishes. Both cabins maintain Audi’s reputation for build quality and attention to detail across all touchpoints.
Infotainment Systems and Connectivity
MMI infotainment systems equip both A4 and S4 models with identical core functionality. Navigation features integrated Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide comprehensive smartphone integration.
Display interfaces respond quickly to inputs while maintaining intuitive menu structures. Voice recognition capabilities allow drivers to control various functions without taking hands off the steering wheel.
Connectivity options include multiple USB ports and wireless charging capabilities in higher trim levels. Audio systems deliver clear sound reproduction through strategically positioned speakers throughout both cabins.
Seating and Comfort Comparisons
A4 seating focuses on long-distance comfort with available heating and ventilation options. Spacious interior dimensions provide ample legroom for passengers while maintaining supportive positioning for extended drives.
S4 sport seats feature adjustable side bolsters and massage functions that enhance comfort during spirited driving sessions. These seats offer superior lateral support compared to standard A4 seating while maintaining comfort for daily use.
Seat materials differ with the A4 offering traditional leather options and the S4 incorporating performance-oriented surfaces. Both models provide power adjustment controls and memory settings for driver convenience.
Additional S4 features include a Sport S package with sport rear differential and adaptive damping suspension that enhance performance handling characteristics beyond standard A4 capabilities.
Driving Experience and Handling
We’ve established the performance differences between these sedans, and now we examine how they translate into real-industry driving dynamics. Each model delivers distinct handling characteristics that reflect their design philosophies.
Suspension Systems and Ride Quality
The Audi A4 balances ride comfort and handling through its sophisticated suspension setup that prioritizes refinement for daily commuting and longer drives. Its suspension calibration delivers a smooth, composed experience without sacrificing control, making it an ideal choice for drivers seeking everyday luxury. The system maintains excellent stability across various road surfaces while filtering out minor imperfections.
Sport-tuned suspension distinguishes the S4’s approach to ride quality, featuring adaptive dampers that allow drivers to adjust firmness according to their preferences. This advanced setup improves handling precision and responsiveness during spirited driving while maintaining high-speed stability. The S4’s firmer suspension reflects its performance focus, delivering enhanced cornering capabilities compared to the A4’s comfort-oriented tuning.
Steering Response and Road Feel
Precise steering characterizes the A4’s handling, providing good road feedback that supports confident navigation across diverse driving scenarios. The steering calibration emphasizes comfort and agility, creating a responsive feel without excessive sharpness. This balanced approach makes the A4 accessible to drivers who appreciate captivating handling without compromising daily usability.
Enhanced steering response defines the S4’s driving character, featuring a sportier setup that delivers greater road feel and directness. The system provides sharper cornering capabilities and more communicative feedback, supporting aggressive driving maneuvers while maintaining control. This heightened steering precision aligns with the S4’s performance orientation, creating a more engaged driving experience for enthusiasts.
All-Wheel Drive Performance
Both models feature Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system as standard equipment, though each implements the technology differently to match their distinct personalities. The A4’s Quattro system emphasizes balanced handling and safety, delivering enhanced confidence in wet or slippery conditions while maintaining efficiency. This setup provides reliable traction without compromising the sedan’s refined character.
Performance optimization distinguishes the S4’s Quattro implementation, combining increased power delivery with sport suspension tuning for superior ever-changing capabilities. The system enhances grip and power distribution, allowing confident handling at high speeds and through tight corners while maintaining optimal control. This advanced all-wheel drive configuration makes the S4 notably superior in performance driving scenarios compared to the A4’s safety-focused approach.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Understanding the financial commitment of each model reveals important differences that extend far beyond the initial purchase price. Both sedans represent distinct value propositions that align with their respective target audiences and performance capabilities.
Base Model Pricing Structure
The Audi A4 serves as the accessible entry point into Audi’s luxury sedan lineup with a starting price around $40,000. Starting significantly lower than its performance counterpart, the A4 attracts buyers seeking luxury without the premium performance cost.
Performance enthusiasts find themselves drawn to the Audi S4, which commands a substantially higher base price starting around $50,000 or more for the 2024 model year. This $10,000+ price difference reflects the S4’s turbocharged V6 engine, sport-tuned components, and enhanced quattro all-wheel drive system. Buyers considering the S4 invest in a completely different driving experience that justifies the elevated entry cost.
Options and Trim Level Costs
Multiple trim levels across the A4 lineup focus primarily on luxury amenities, technology packages, and comfort enhancements. These options typically add moderate costs while maintaining the model’s value-oriented positioning. Premium packages emphasize interior refinements and advanced driver assistance features.
The S4’s optional packages concentrate on performance enhancements including sport suspension upgrades, advanced braking systems, and specialized quattro configurations. Performance-focused buyers discover that S4 options can significantly increase the total price, with sport packages and carbon fiber elements adding thousands to the base cost. Each upgrade reinforces the model’s track-ready capabilities.
Resale Value and Ownership Costs
Long-term ownership reveals contrasting financial trajectories between these Audi models. The following data illustrates the 5-year ownership picture:
| Factor | Audi A4 (2024) | Audi S4 (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Year Depreciation | ~$27,192 loss (residual value approx. $15,803) | ~$19,814 loss (residual value approx. $36,381) |
| Resale Value After 5 Years | Lower resale value relative to initial price | Higher resale value, losing about 35% after 5 years |
| Total 5-Year Ownership Cost | ~$38,940 (includes depreciation, maintenance, etc.) | Approximately $61,270 total |
| Major Ownership Expenses | Moderate insurance and maintenance | Higher insurance (~$19,150), fuel (~$9,625), financing (~$9,516), maintenance (~$3,165) |
Depreciation patterns favor the S4 proportionally, retaining approximately $36,381 after five years compared to the A4’s $15,803 residual value. Performance models traditionally hold their value better due to enthusiast demand and limited production numbers.
Ownership expenses tell a different story for daily costs. Insurance companies charge significantly more for S4 coverage due to its performance capabilities and higher repair costs. Fuel expenses increase substantially with the S4’s powerful V6 engine, while maintenance costs escalate due to performance components requiring specialized service.
Budget-conscious buyers often gravitate toward the A4’s lower total ownership costs of approximately $38,940 over five years. Enthusiasts accept the S4’s $61,270 five-year cost for the enhanced driving experience and superior resale retention.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The fuel economy differences between the Audi A4 and S4 demonstrate how engine selection directly impacts efficiency and running costs. Both models showcase distinct approaches to balancing performance with fuel consumption.
Real-Industry MPG Ratings
The Audi A4’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers impressive efficiency ratings of 26 MPG city and 36 MPG highway. EPA combined ratings typically sit around 30 MPG for the A4, and our analysis of consumer reports confirms most owners experience results near these official figures. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro Ultra all-wheel-drive system contribute significantly to these fuel savings.
Conversely, the Audi S4’s 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine returns 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway with an EPA-rated combined MPG of approximately 24. Real-industry driving often reflects these official numbers due to the engine’s higher output and focus on performance over fuel conservation. The S4’s eight-speed automatic transmission lacks the rear axle disconnect feature found in the A4’s Quattro Ultra system.
Performance vs Economy Trade-offs
Choosing the A4 means prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing reasonable performance capabilities. The A4 produces 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque while maintaining excellent fuel economy through its comfort-tuned suspension and everyday driving optimization. This balance makes the A4 ideal for drivers seeking luxury sedan refinement with lower operating costs.
Selecting the S4 represents a clear performance-first philosophy with measurable efficiency compromises. The S4 generates 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 4.4 seconds. Sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and aggressive styling enhance the driving experience but increase fuel consumption and overall ownership costs. The 5 MPG city and 7 MPG highway difference translates to significantly higher fuel expenses over time.
Which Model Should You Choose
Selecting between these two premium sedans depends on your driving priorities and lifestyle requirements. The A4 excels in daily practicality and efficiency while the S4 delivers exceptional performance and sportier character.
Best Use Cases for the A4
Everyday Driving & Efficiency represents the A4’s strongest selling point, with its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 201 or 261 horsepower while achieving exceptional fuel economy ratings of 26 city and 34-36 highway MPG. Commuters appreciate the refined balance between adequate power and cost-effective operation that makes long-distance travel more economical.
Comfort and Luxury define the A4’s cabin experience, featuring Brown Walnut wood inlays and premium materials that create a sophisticated atmosphere for family use and business travel. The quieter ride quality prioritizes passenger comfort over aggressive performance characteristics.
Cost Conscious Buyers benefit from the A4’s starting price around $43,295, offering important savings compared to the S4 while maintaining Audi’s luxury standards and build quality. Budget-minded buyers access premium German engineering without the performance model’s price premium.
Safety Features include eight airbags, AEB with pedestrian detection, lane change warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors that contribute to the A4’s five-star ANCAP safety rating. Families prioritizing protection find comprehensive safety technology that enhances confidence in various driving conditions.
When the S4 Makes Sense
Performance Enthusiasts gravitate toward the S4’s 3.0L twin-scroll turbocharged V6 engine that generates 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph acceleration in the mid-4-second range. Drivers seeking captivating performance discover capabilities that bridge the gap between luxury sedan and sports car.
Sporty Interior & Design elements include diamond-stitched S sport seats with massage function, leather/Dinamica upholstery, stainless steel pedals, Carbon Atlas inlays, and illuminated “S” badging that enhance both aesthetics and driving engagement. Performance-oriented buyers appreciate motorsport-inspired details that reflect the S4’s ever-changing character.
Driving Dynamics benefit from enhanced powertrain integration and performance-tuned suspension that deliver superior handling precision and responsiveness compared to the standard A4. Enthusiasts enjoy sharper steering feedback and optimized chassis tuning that transforms ordinary drives into captivating experiences.
Urban and Enthusiast Driving scenarios showcase the S4’s versatility, serving effectively as a daily driver while excelling on highways and twisty roads where its power and handling advantages become apparent. Weekend driving enthusiasts appreciate having serious performance capability in a practical luxury sedan package.
Conclusion
Both the Audi A4 and S4 represent exceptional examples of German engineering excellence with distinct personalities that cater to different driving philosophies. We’ve seen how these models share a premium foundation while diverging significantly in their approach to performance luxury and daily usability.
Your choice eventually depends on what matters most in your driving experience. The A4 delivers refined sophistication with impressive fuel economy making it perfect for those who value comfort and efficiency. The S4 rewards enthusiasts with thrilling performance and sport-tuned dynamics that transform every drive into an captivating experience.
We recommend test driving both models to feel the difference firsthand. Consider your daily driving needs budget constraints and long-term ownership goals when making your final decision between these two outstanding Audi offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Audi A4 and S4?
The primary difference lies in performance and focus. The A4 features a 201-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine emphasizing fuel efficiency and comfort, while the S4 boasts a powerful 349-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine designed for performance enthusiasts seeking sporty driving dynamics.
Which model offers better fuel economy?
The Audi A4 delivers superior fuel economy with ratings of 26 MPG city and 34-36 MPG highway, making it ideal for cost-conscious drivers. The S4’s performance-oriented engine results in higher fuel consumption due to its focus on power and acceleration.
How do the prices compare between the A4 and S4?
The A4 serves as a more accessible entry point into Audi’s luxury lineup with lower pricing. The S4 commands a higher price tag due to its performance-oriented features, advanced technology, and premium sport enhancements.
What are the exterior design differences?
The A4 showcases a conservative, elegant design appealing to luxury-focused buyers. The S4 features bold sporty enhancements including aggressive styling cues, performance badges, and design elements that emphasize its athletic capabilities and performance heritage.
Which model is better for daily commuting?
The Audi A4 excels in daily commuting with its focus on ride comfort, fuel efficiency, and refined driving dynamics. Its suspension prioritizes comfort and stability, making it ideal for everyday driving, families, and those seeking luxury without performance premiums.
Who should choose the S4 over the A4?
Performance enthusiasts should choose the S4 if they prioritize powerful acceleration, sport-tuned handling, and dynamic driving experiences. It’s perfect for drivers who want spirited performance, don’t mind higher fuel costs, and desire Audi’s most engaging driving dynamics.