A SUPERCAR-beating Audi S4 leads the way among the A4 line-up unveiled at this week’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
Boasting 354PS from its new turbocharged V6 TFSI engine and a 0-62mph sprint capability of just 4.7sec, the all-new Audi S4 and S4 Avant head-up the German manufacturer’s company car driver focused compact executive cruiser range.
Audi S4 highlights
- 354PS and 500Nm of torque available from the 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine;
- Eight-speed tiptronic transmission, latest generation quattro drive;
- 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds, governed 155mph top speed, up to 38.2mpg with 170g/km;
- Sport differential, sports suspension with adaptive damping, Audi virtual cockpit and numerous assistance systems optionally available.
Despite its considerably improved performance, the S4 Saloon claims fuel economy of up to 38.2mpg, equating to 170g/km of CO2.
The new eight-speed tiptronic transmission is highly efficient and provides fast, comfortable and responsive gear changes, switching to freewheeling mode where possible to save fuel.
In common with every Audi S model, the power of the 3.0 TFSI is transmitted to the road by quattro permanent ‘intelligent’ all-wheel-drive.
The standard S sport suspension is 23 millimetres lower than on the basic model. The ride height is the same with the optional suspension with active damper control. Along with the engine, steering, tiptronic and optional sport differential, this variable damping system, known as CDC or Continuous Damper Control, can be modulated via the Audi drive select handling system which is fitted as standard. This enables the driver to adjust the suspension characteristics across several modes.
The standard 18 inch wheels in 5‑twin-spoke star design roll on 245/40 size tyres. A 19‑inch alternative is available from quattro GmbH. Powerful, stable brakes are fitted on the large wheels.
The spacious interior can comfortably hold five passengers. The Audi S4 Avant provides 505 to 1,510 litres of luggage space depending on the position of the rear backrests. The S4 Saloon has 480 litres of luggage capacity.
The S sport seats are covered in a combination of pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara in the colours ebony, rotor grey and magma red. They have adjustable side sections, integrated headrests, and a pneumatic massage function.
The fully digital instrument cluster displays all key information on a high‑resolution 12.3 inch screen using detailed graphics. The driver can choose between three views – one of them is an exclusive Sport screen, which moves the rev counter into the centre.
The second major innovation on the S4 models is the MMI operating system. Its operating logic is similar to that of the latest smartphones, including the intelligent free text search function.
Both S4 models provide a wide range of driver assistance systems including:
- Predictive efficiency assistant supports the driver in saving fuel;
- Audi active lane assist helps the driver stay in lane;
- The adaptive cruise control;
- Stop&Go including traffic jam assist can take over acceleration, deceleration, and steering at up to 40mph;
- Park assist;
- Cross traffic assist rear exit warning;
- Collision avoidance assist;
- Turn assist;
- Audi pre sense systems;
- A camera-based traffic sign recognition.
Standard equipment includes LED headlights and LED rear lights with dynamic indicators, while the Avant features an electrically controlled tailgate and luggage compartment cover, as well as anodised aluminium roof rails.
Full details of UK pricing and specification for the all-new S4 and S4 Avant will be available closer to the launch next spring.
