The improvements made to the 2020 S4 mirror those made to the 2020 A4, including new design (particularly up front) and a thorough overhaul of the multimedia and dashboard systems. These two vehicles are still difficult to distinguish from one another, but the S4 has unique features including a quad-tailpipe exhaust system, a modest rear spoiler, and aluminum mirror covers. However, unless you have a keen eye, you won’t see those from a distance greater than 50 feet.
Due to this, the S4 is something of a sleeper vehicle. Although it has the same exterior design as an A4, it has significantly greater power (101 or 161 more horsepower, depending on which A4) and significant suspension improvements.
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Tuning Makes the Difference
Prior to driving the S4, I tested the larger three-row Q7 SUV, which had its own update for 2020. The engines and transmissions in the two cars are identical: a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, an eight-speed automatic transmission (rather than a dual-clutch transmission), and standard all-wheel drive. This didn’t initially look good for the S4 because the Q7’s powertrain made driving a real drag. Even worse would be a performance automobile without a performance engine.
However, there was still some optimism for the S4. It receives some significant upgrades, like as specific tune and transmission gearing, and it does away with the Q7’s 48-volt mild hybrid technology. In the S4, those adjustments prove to be beneficial (as does the car being 1,235 pounds lighter than the Q7 55 TFSI variant).
The S4’s engine and transmission feel more tighter, and the throttle response is significantly better. Similar to 2019, these tuning adjustments provide the S4 349 horsepower and 369 pounds-feet of torque. Although there is still a little bit of latency for a performance-oriented sedan sporting a S label, it is at least tolerable, and the car’s explosive acceleration at roughly 2,500 rpm helps to make up for it. Audi claims that the S4 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, but in my experience, it accelerates far more quickly.
The S Sport Package ($2,500) that my car had added an adaptive damping suspension, red brake calipers, and a sport rear differential that gives the all-wheel-drive system the ability to vector torque. According to Audi, 75% of S4 purchasers would choose this option, and it makes sense if you want to drive the car for pleasure. I left the car in Dynamic mode for the most of the drive, and the adaptive damping suspension didn’t feel overly busy while yet keeping a welcome sensation of tautness.
I wish I could say the same about the steering of the car, which is light and provides little feedback. Although Audi does provide a Dynamic Steering option that could be useful in this situation, my test vehicle was devoid of it. Although the S4’s potential is immediately obvious when you begin to hustle it through the corners, the entire experience is almost robotic. That sense of disconnection is caused by the absence of steering feel, the subdued exhaust note (even though it sounds great outside the car), and a slight lag in the gas pedal. Although you’ll move quickly, your heart won’t beat faster.
Interior Upgrade
The S4 receives the identical interior improvements for 2020 as the A4, with the largest change being a brand-new entertainment system that substitutes a sizable 10.1-inch touchscreen for the outdated rotary dial controller. Even better, it keeps the physical climate controls that are simpler to use and avoids the dual-screen configuration found in the Q7 (among other vehicles). The screen is really attractive and reacts to inputs rather rapidly. I was also appreciative that I could reach the opposite side of it without having to lean out of the comfortable sport seats, even though that meant that after only a few short hours of use, I had fingerprints all over it. (The screen attracts fingerprints; keep a microfiber cloth close at hand to wipe it down frequently.) Standard features include wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a USB-C port has been added up front.
The system’s biggest flaw is one that most contemporary Audi cars share: a volume knob that wants to hang out with the passenger. This time, the volume control is also hidden behind the shifter, so you must reach over or around it to get it. The fact that the button serves as both the tuning and track-skipping controller only makes the problem worse.
The backseat is still cramped, and there is a noticeable floor hump that makes it difficult to fit three people because the car’s dimensions haven’t changed since the refresh. If you have taller passengers, you’ll need to arrange the chairs carefully to accomodate everyone. Although vision is actually rather good because of the relatively large back windows, I had problems fitting behind myself properly because I’m just under 6 feet tall.
S4 Price: What’s It Going to Cost Me?
Similar to the A4, the S4 has three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, with pricing beginning at $50,895 (destination included). The starting price is somewhat cheaper than in 2019. Mid-grade Premium Plus with the S Sport, Navigation, and Driver Assistance options served as my test vehicle. This increased the cost to $62,840, which is not inexpensive but is within the range of the competition. The S4 falls somewhere between the 2019 BMW 330i we most recently reviewed ($57,420) and the 2020 BMW M340i ($69,570), in terms of both price and performance.
The S4 doesn’t really hold up to the M340i. In our tests, the BMW accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.89 seconds, which is far faster than the S4’s stated 4.4-second time. An RS 4 might stand a better chance, but at the moment, that vehicle is only available in Europe as an S4 Avant wagon. I’d also rank the S4 behind the G70 we owned for a year in the 3.3T trim. Although it may not be quite as quick as the S4 in a straight line, the G70 3.3T is a complete blast to drive around corners. You could have something if you swapped the steering from the G70 into the S4.
I liked a lot of things about the S4: Its design improvements look terrific, and the interior revisions are an improvement (especially those aluminum trim pieces around the air inlets). It can be difficult to tell apart from the conventional A4 unless you are near to it, which gives it the air of a sleeper vehicle. That exhaust note serves as a good representation of how driving the S4 finally feels: While it may seem like you’re having a blast from the outside, from the driver’s seat, the experience is more like a yawn than a bang.
Is the Audi S4 still produced?
The Audi S4 for 2022 is a direct carryover of the previous model year and continues to be appealing in many respects, including interior grandeur and practical performance. The 3.0-liter V-6 engine that powers the S4 produces the same power output as the previous generation’s engine and has done so since the 2020 model year. The current S4 has a limited-slip differential and Quattro all-wheel drive, which makes handling easy. The inside is relatively similar to that of the previous model year, although some artificial carbon-fiber inlays have taken the place of the aluminum trim to enhance the sporty appearance. The S4 is a low-key performance sedan for the 2022 model year, primarily for the older demographic.
Are Audi S4 vehicles good?
The Audi S4’s overall reliability rating is 42.8, which is not very reliable. The exact rankings of this car in relation to various other cars are shown in the chart below, however as a point of reference, the average overall rating is 57.
This information is based on a combination of looking at the cost and frequency of maintenance, warranty coverage, and long-term reliability by looking at how long these vehicles are normally kept on the road. Remember that not just compact or subcompact vehicles in the Audi S4’s class are included in this comparison; all automobiles are.
You may notice that these numbers differ significantly from those in J.D. Power or Consumer Reports. Most publications look at complaints made to the dealership within the first few months of ownership (like JD Power) or solicit biased feedback from owners regarding longer-term cycles of their new cars. Instead, this study examines data from wholesale auctions and repair businesses on actual repair prices and frequency.
Is the Audi A4 pricey?
Take a close look at the 2020 Audi A4 if you want to purchase your first luxury vehicle. The value for the money is excellent. The new A4 is surprisingly spacious inside and includes many of Audi’s most well-liked technology as standard equipment. The new A4 is an even more tempting entry-level luxury sedan thanks to its smooth, powerful performance. Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive technology is a need for driving in bad weather, even though front-wheel-drive vehicles are acceptable for most drivers.
Audi significantly improved the new A4. The sharper German style of this vehicle will be noticeable to longtime admirers. A brand-new infotainment system with updated software is also included with every level.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Audi A4The Pros
1. Dynamic Turbocharged Motor
The same engine choices are available for the 2020 Audi A4. Standard equipment includes a four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 188 horsepower. Even though it might not look like much power, the A4’s response is rarely a source of driver complaints. While the A4’s all-wheel-drive models have a comparable engine, it has been modified to produce 248 horsepower. This results in an even faster acceleration. The A4 with AWD can accelerate to 60 mph from a complete stop in an astonishing 5.3 seconds.
2. All-Wheel Quattro Drive
The 2020 Audi A4 comes standard with front-wheel drive. However, it makes sense to use Audi’s laudable Quattro AWD system. You’ll always enjoy power being distributed to all four wheels when driving in inclement weather. The added assurance is definitely worthwhile. This AWD system, however, does more than just increase traction in slick weather. Additionally, it gives the A4 a sportier personality when driving. Quattro helps the sedan stay flat and balanced as it navigates corners.
3. A Comfortable Ride with Regular Suspension
The 2020 Audi A4 is a really comfortable vehicle to drive. You’ll like how effectively it absorbs the interstate. Although adaptive suspension is an option, most experts advise keeping with the regular suspension. While fully absorbing harsh impacts, it does not compromise the A4’s dynamic handling. The enhanced ride quality of the A4 will be especially appreciated by your family when you decide to do some long-distance driving. Even cars with summer performance tires are comfortable.
4. Restyled Exterior Design
Audi has significantly improved the A4’s appearance for 2020. The 2018 A4 is substantially more streamlined when compared to last year’s model. The A4 looks better thanks to a revised front fascia and LED headlights. Drivers who like an even sharper appearance might choose the matrix-style LED lighting from Audi. Models with all-wheel drive come standard with the S Line aesthetic package, which includes sporty wheels and a mesh grille that has been darkened. There are a total of 12 color variations available, including the recently released Terra Gray.
Five. High-Performance S4 Model
The 2020 Audi A4 comes in a high-performance version called the S4. It is intended to provide pure driving excitement. The S4 model is propelled by a turbo V6 engine that produces 349 horsepower. You can experience a speedier 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds by upgrading to the S4. Additionally, aggressive suspension adjustment prepares the S4 for the racetrack. Audi gives the S4 variant four chrome exhaust outlets and a trunk-lid spoiler to distinguish it visually.
6. Large and Cozy sufficient for families
A small automobile is what the 2020 Audi A4 is categorized as. Don’t let this truth discourage you, though. The majority of people consider the A4 to be an excellent family transporter. The A4 has a backseat that seems more like a midsize sedan thanks to plenty of legroom. The A4 has a lot of headroom in the back, unlike some of its rivals. Although the front seats are comfortable as is, aggressive drivers will desire the sport seats that are an option.
7. Has Excellent Braking Performance.
Some people neglect to assess the brake system’s performance when looking for a new car. You’ll feel more secure if your braking system is well-designed. The A4 has one of the greatest braking systems in its class. You’ll be grateful for the A4’s excellent brakes if a motorist abruptly cuts you off. The performance tires that are an option improve this car’s stopping power even more. Expect the A4 to stop just as swiftly as some sports vehicles while braking at 60 mph.
8. Stylish, Top-Notch Cabin
The A4’s stylish interior quickly catches the attention of many drivers. A great sense of style permeates it. Many car experts believe the Audi A4’s interior delivers class-leading quality. The A4 has a luxurious interior that is made with high-quality materials and is built to last. The top-of-the-line Prestige trim comes standard with dual-pane acoustic front windows, which further quiet the inside.
9. Lots of Cutting-Edge Technology
The 2020 Audi A4 is likely to impress if you expect the newest and best technologies. Audi unveiled a new iteration of its MMI interface this year. The 8.3-inch infotainment display from last year has been replaced by a larger 10.1-inch screen. You can control many of this system’s features by giving spoken commands because this system comprehends normal language. The digital gauge cluster from Audi’s Virtual Cockpit is still an option. The high-resolution driving maps and customisation options are quite popular with drivers.
10. Intelligent Safety Technology
The safety features offered by Audi are excellent. Your stress levels will decrease if you frequently experience traffic on the freeway thanks to the adaptive cruise control technology. It has a cutting-edge Traffic Jam Assist technology that facilitates accelerating and braking at speeds under 40 mph. Additionally, you’ll appreciate Audi’s Pre Sense system. It keeps an eye out for opportunistic people and other vehicles on the road.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Audi A4The Cons
1. Fuel Economy Is Reduced by Quattro All-Wheel Drive
The Quattro AWD system from Audi can be quite useful. This is particularly true for people who frequently commute in inclement weather. Sadly, choosing the Quattro AWD system reduces fuel efficiency. About 23 mpg is what you can anticipate in the city. Front-wheel drive vehicles, on the other hand, get 27 mpg in the city. Fuel efficiency on the highway is also better.
2. Removal of Manual Transmission Option
Audi made the decision to stop offering the A4 with a manual transmission last year. This knowledge might deter some buyers of a 2020 Audi A4 from doing so. The automatic transmission in the sedan works well in the majority of circumstances, but some test drivers have noticed considerable delay when accelerating. The new Genesis G70, which does have a manual, is an option to the A4.
3. Some trimmings might be quite expensive.
For luxury automobile shoppers on a tight budget, the 2020 Audi A4 is a viable option with an expected starting MSRP of less than $39,000. But some trims are somewhat expensive. The most expensive model in the list, the A4 Prestige, will set you back a lot of cash. The expensive, high-performance S4 model is to be anticipated.
4. Number-based steering
Although the Audi A4 handles nicely, its overall driving experience is diminished by numb steering. The fake steering wheel on the A4 makes it appear a little disjointed from the road. Some individuals will eventually want for a greater sense of control.
5. Conventional Fashion
The outside of the new A4 is much more intriguing. However, some drivers might still think its look is a little too conventional. Upgrade to the S Line aesthetic package if you want more flair than the ordinary A4 has to offer.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
Possibly Genesis’ most entertaining vehicle to date is the G70. Additionally, it offers a great warranty. The Audi A4 is a step more opulent than the Genesis G70 in terms of total luxury. Additionally, Audi provides a more advanced infotainment system for the A4. Furthermore, the back of the A4 has extra area for legs.
The BMW 3 Series has long been praised as the greatest vehicle in its class. However, this could not be the case anymore. You’ll notice that the Audi A4 offers more value for your money when compared to the 3 Series in terms of its list of standard safety features. Additionally, Audi provides a superior standard infotainment system with the A4.
The 2020 Honda Accord is a mainstream sedan, yet it still has a lot of premium features. However, it still falls short of the superb level of luxury offered by the Audi A4. The Honda Accord does not offer several features, such as a digital gauge cluster that may be customized. Additionally, the Accord does not come with all-wheel drive.
The 2020 Audi A4 is still a fantastic choice if you’re an Audi enthusiast who wants to enjoy luxury for less money. It is much more enticing than before thanks to updated appearance and a new infotainment system. The Audi Quattro all-wheel-drive system rewards you with greater performance and better traction even while the regular powerplant is acceptable.