The Audi A4 has always been one of Audi’s best-selling models, especially in Europe. However, with the EV trend gaining traction, Audi will convert the entire A4 lineup into new, all-electric models. The A5 will replace the A4, and the traditional A4 will no longer be used. That includes the Audi S4, which means that the 2024 model is one of the last sporty three-box sedans the brand will make. But Audi isn’t ready to give up on the platform yet and is giving the S4 a host of new technologies for the 2024 model year. Some of those include adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel, and lane-keeping assist, all coming as standard. The exterior and interior designs didn’t change, nor did the drivetrain, although the model went through a major update in 2020, making it look modern even today. Also, its 3.0 liter V6 engine still makes more than enough power to keep the driver on his toes, but before we go into more details, check out the ones looking for a new owner here at Exotic Car Trader.
We are all pretty accustomed to fast Audi models by now, but it’s all thanks to the original S4 and RS4 models from the late ‘90s. They are the models that put Audi on the map and are still the two most important performance models for the brand. And this latest generation is no different. As a matter of fact, thanks to its turbocharged V6 engine, it’s the most inherently similar generation to the first model compared to any that came in between. The current fifth-gen came out in 2017, and it got a major facelift in 2020 with a completely redesigned front and rear ends and the interior. The 2024 Audi S4 hasn’t changed significantly since then and will likely be the last model year. Moving forward, all even-numbered Audi models will be EVs, and all odd-numbered models will sport an internal combustion engine. That means the A4, S4, and RS4 will no longer exist as such. Instead, they will be replaced by the A5 Sportback, which will also be available as a station wagon.
The Audi S4 gets the same interior treatment as other sporty models from the brand. That said, the S4 does take up a notch over the S5 with a flat bottom steering wheel, which makes it look like it came straight from an R8. Moreover, the S4 features a ton of Alcantara on the door panels with contrasting stitching, and coupled with the optional carbon fiber trim, it makes the S4 look more like a racecar than a family station wagon. The seats also help the sporty cause with hexagonal quilting and, yet again, contrasting stitching. The S4 isn’t lacking any technology either, with an industry-leading digital gauge cluster and a huge 10.1” infotainment screen. And while it doesn’t feature a second screen for the AC controls as bigger Audi models do, that’s a positive for most people because knobs and dials are much easier to use. Space isn’t worth talking about because that’s one thing an S4 will always be at the top of the class in. As for 2024 model year changes, the S4 now includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, a heated steering wheel, and remote start, all as standard. New optional equipment includes more advanced traffic sign recognition and predictive cruise control.
While the Audi S4 got some new equipment for the 2024 model year, the exterior remained the same. And we have to say that it does look a generation behind the latest M340i BMW and the Mercedes C43 AMG. However, the current S4 design is nearing four years of production, so that’s to be expected. However, the S4 alone still looks just as elegant as it did in 2020, and the sporty details make it look miles more attractive than a standard A4. The front features aggressive intakes with aluminum inlays throughout the main grille. And while the design, in general, may look like last year, the matrix headlights take it well into the future. The side profile features subtle but muscular lines, while the rear, with its quad exhausts and a lip spoiler, looks even sportier than the front end. A small diffuser and OLED tail lights complete the picture and make the S4 look more attractive than cheaper sedans.
There are always faster cars out there, and plenty of them, such as the Audi S4. It has enough power to get even the most experienced drivers in trouble. And it all comes down to its turbocharged, 3-liter V6 engine making 350 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to get the 3,660-pound S4 to 60 in just 4.2 seconds. And while it’s not as fast as the M340i on paper, a four-second 0-60 run still makes it faster than most cars you will encounter on public roads. The only downside is that its top speed is limited to 155 mph, in typical German fashion. Audi didn’t forget about the brakes and suspension, as the S4 features an entirely different suspension setup and six-piston Brembo calipers gripping 13.8” rotors. Of course, the Quattro all-wheel drive system is standard, and while the S4 doesn't have the sharpest driving dynamic, it’s also the safest of its competitors when driven at the limit.
The Audi S4 prices have increased somewhat in 2024, but it’s still the cheapest of its competitors. The entry-level Premium starts at $55,595, nearly $7,000 less than the M340i. At the same time, the top-of-the-line, fully-loaded Prestige trim starts at $62,895, just $1,000 more than the entry-level M340i, which doesn’t even get four-wheel drive. Competition from Mercedes isn’t any cheaper either, with the C43 AMG starting at $61,850 before a single option is added. Overall, the Audi S4 is of great value, and the prices are more than fair for what will soon be the old model. For an even better deal, check out the used ones at Exotic Car Trader.
At the end of the day, the Audi S4 isn’t as exciting, fast, or attractive as its latest competitors. But its prices more than make up for it and keep it relevant in 2024 before an all-new generation comes out next year. And it’s made even more special by the fact that it's the last fossil fuel-powered S4 we will get. Lastly, if you are looking to buy a used Audi S4 or any other sports sedan, SUV, or luxury vehicle, consider buying it through Exotic Car Trader. Not only is the buying process as convenient as it gets, but Exotic Car Trader also includes escrow protection, delivery, and first inspection, making it just as safe. The same goes if you would like to sell your current vehicle through Exotic Car Trader.
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