2011 Audi S4: More docile, but just as desirable

Auto journalists are often asked about their favourite cars – call it an occupational hazard. My response is always the same: although exotic cars turn heads, sport sedans capture my heart. With all that performance and convenience, sport sedans combine the best of all worlds. While the BMW M3 or the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG inevitably spring to mind in this category, Audi’s more discrete and more affordable S4 is also in the mix.

Several years ago, Audi decided to change things up by presenting two unique cars in this category to rival BMW and Mercedes. There was the S4, a sport sedan with a little less power than the other German models, and there was the RS4 leading the way in terms of power and price. Although the RS4 was discontinued during the most recent makeover of the A4 two years ago, the S4 survived and continues to bring in good sales numbers.

A bargain

With a base price of a little more than $52,000, the S4 sells for about $10,000 less than the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG and about $18,000 less than the BMW M3 or the Lexus IS-F. Now that’s what I call a convincing argument for anyone wanting to buy a very powerful sedan at a lower price. As for the engine, while the other models belong to the 400-plus horsepower club, the S4 delivers a little less power. Most notably its 4.2-litre V8 was replaced by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6. At 333 horsepower, seven less than the old V8, this engine still offers more than enough power. In the plus category for Audi is that this engine sends power to all four wheels as it comes standard with the excellent quattro all-wheel drive. That’s another undeniable advantage for the S4 since it performs almost as well in winter as it does in summer. Very few rivals can say the same.

The S4’s looks turn heads. It’s been a long time since a car caused such a stir in my driveway. The S4 stands out because of its more muscular lines, its quadruple exhaust and its silver mirrors. But the feature that really makes it pop is the optional triple five-spoke rims. From an aesthetic point of view, mission accomplished! The manufacturer managed to mix sportiness and simplicity in the right proportions, and a lot of people like it.

Inside, the S4 is also a little sportier: the instrumentation, the seats and the steering wheel bear the S4 emblem, while aluminum and carbon fibre accents round out the car’s unique treatment. Of course, just like A4, the passenger compartment features excellent quality with notable attention to detail throughout. You have to see everything lit up at night to truly appreciate it. As for the rest, the car is reasonably roomy, although it’s a bit of a tight squeeze in the back.

On the road

Sure, you’ll fall in love with the S4’s lines and meticulous interior, but even more enchanting is the feeling behind the wheel. There are those who’ll miss the 4.2-litre V8, but the turbocharged six-cylinder isn’t exactly a step backwards. With ample power and generous torque at low gear, fans of muscular accelerations will be happy. This very modern engine offers direct fuel injection, a feature that maximizes performance while promoting noticeable fuel economy to the tune of 12.1 L/100 km on average in town, compared to the 16.2 L/100 km of the old V8.

Purists will be able to opt for the factory standard six-speed manual transmission that helps get the most out of the car, but the seven-speed DSG twin-clutch gearbox is pretty interesting in its own right. With its ultra-fast shifting (0.2 seconds) and the advantage of not having to deal with a clutch, it’s very practical in the city.

Our test model featured another element that maximizes performance, namely a rear sport differential. This optional system helps distribute the quattro all-wheel drive’s torque not only between the front and rear wheels, but also between the left and right rear wheels. As a result, the S4 performs a lot better in turns by sending more power to the outside wheel.

You’re looking for a sport sedan that delivers first-rate performance? You don’t want to pay an arm and a leg? Then the S4 could very well be the car for you. However, you’ll have to be smart when it comes time to choose your options – if you’re not careful, the price can skyrocket.