Audi S4 B9
2017-2024
The B9 S4 epitomizes the modern German performance sedan philosophy of sophisticated technology and refined power delivery. It offers serious performance wrapped in understated elegance, making it equally at home on the Autobahn or in corporate parking lots.
Quick Take
The B9 S4 represents Audi's sophisticated take on the performance sedan, combining turbocharged efficiency with quattro all-wheel drive capability. It delivers refined power through a smooth-shifting 8-speed tiptronic transmission and features Audi's signature understated yet aggressive styling.
Best For
Key Strength
Turbocharged Torque Delivery
Watch For
Carbon Buildup Maintenance Burden
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
The S4 lineage dates back to 1991, representing Audi's commitment to high-performance variants of their core sedan lineup. The B9 generation marked a shift to turbocharged efficiency while maintaining the quattro DNA that has defined S models for decades.
Design Philosophy
Audi's design approach emphasizes subtle aggression and technological sophistication over flashy styling. The B9 S4 features clean lines, distinctive LED lighting signatures, and functional aerodynamic elements that enhance both aesthetics and performance.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The 3.0T TFSI V6 delivers smooth, linear power with minimal turbo lag and strong mid-range torque. It feels refined and cultured rather than raw, with sophisticated engine management that optimizes performance across all driving conditions.
Chassis Dynamics
The S4's chassis strikes an excellent balance between comfort and performance, with adaptive dampers and quattro AWD providing confident handling. It feels planted and predictable rather than playful, prioritizing precision over outright excitement.
Sound Signature
The exhaust note is sophisticated and subdued, with a subtle growl under acceleration. It's more refined than aggressive, befitting the car's premium positioning.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 3.0-liter TFSI V6 produces 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with exceptional linearity. Unlike peaky naturally aspirated engines, the twin-scroll turbocharger delivers usable power from just 1370 RPM, making daily driving effortless while maintaining strong top-end performance.
Audi's latest quattro ultra system with crown gear center differential provides exceptional traction in all conditions. The system can send up to 85% of torque to the rear wheels when needed, creating a more engaging rear-biased feel compared to earlier Haldex-based systems while maintaining sure-footed winter capability.
Honest Tradeoffs
Like most direct-injection engines, the EA839 V6 suffers from carbon buildup on intake valves requiring expensive walnut blasting every 40,000-60,000 miles. This $800-1,200 service is unavoidable and represents a significant ownership cost that many buyers don't anticipate.
At nearly 3,900 pounds, the S4 carries significant mass that dulls the sharpest driving dynamics. While the adaptive dampers help mask the weight in most situations, enthusiast drivers will notice the inertia in quick direction changes compared to lighter competitors like the BMW M340i.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for professionals who want genuine performance without sacrificing daily usability or drawing unwanted attention. Appeals to drivers who value technological sophistication and all-weather capability.