2005.5 Audi S4
08/11/2005
Shahed Hussain
2005 Audi S4
The Audi S4 is a truly unique automobile in its segment. No other manufacturer offers this combination of V-8 power and AWD in a compact sports sedan. The S4 is also available in cabriolet (convertible) and wagon variants, and is only overshadowed by the limited production RS4 sedan in the A4 lineup.
The S4 Avant's subtle angular exterior styling barely hints at its performance potential. Aggressive 18-inch alloy wheels, matte aluminum exterior mirrors, and door mounted road debris guards are some of the more obvious clues that this is no ordinary A4. Even so, most motorists will mistake the S4 for its lesser siblings. Other unique styling cues include aluminum doorsill plates stamped with the S4 logo, and small S4 logos mounted on the rear deck lid and front grille. The test vehicle's silver paint and innocuous appearance ensure that it remains nearly invisible to police and other motorists.
Entering the S4, one finds a very sober cockpit focused on the driving experience. The dashboard and door panels are lined with attractive textured aluminum trim. Electro-luminescent gauges are clearly backlit in white, with red needle indicators. An LCD trip computer, located between the speedometer and tachometer, shows vehicle status and messages. The excellent Bose audio system has a built-in 6-disc CD changer. Most interior panels are finished in dark gray. The Alcantara fabric/leather Recaro sport seats are bolstered for aggressive driving. Power seat adjustment can adjust for most physiques. Legroom in the rear seat compartment is inadequate for most adults over 6' tall, unless the front seat passenger cooperates by moving the seat forward.
The 340-bhp V-8 is crammed into the tightly packed engine bay. An intoxicating exhaust burble, and a slightly "lumpy" idle confirms that this is no ordinary motor. This smooth V-8 has immediate throttle response from idle to redline. Plentiful torque allows rapid acceleration in any gear, at any speed. The optional 6-speed Tiptronic(R) automatic transmission equipped the test vehicle. Paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allow convenient gear changes, without removing the driver's hands from the wheel. The engine note is muted at 70-80 mph, but changes to a frantic thrum at higher speeds, or at full throttle. It is almost impossible to resist the urge to mash the throttle to redline at every opportunity. However, there is a price to be paid at the gas pump, where the combination of the S4's weight and the thirsty V-8 result in mediocre fuel economy.
Although the 6-speed Tiptronic(R) matches the manual transmission in the number of gear ratios, this transmission lacks urgency and throttle response of the 6-speed manual-equipped S4. For maximum control and performance, the Tiptronic(R) should be shifted in manual mode. This transmission is best suited for drivers who value city commuting convenience over outright performance, which is a shame because this V-8 loves to rev, and is a willing partner for enthusiastic driving.
As expected, braking performance is exceptional. Huge calipers and vented brake discs assure tremendous stopping power. The brakes are sensitive, and can appear "grabby" to drivers not used to this level of performance. The S4 actually needs 18-inch wheels to allow clearance for the massive brake calipers. Stiff springs and dampers ensure a very controlled ride, with no unwanted body motion. Although passengers will feel every dip and pothole, the ride is far from punishing. Due to the firm suspension and performance rubber, tire noise is noticeable over poor road surfaces.
Steering is very accurate and sensitive, but without excessive power assist. Moderately heavy steering effort improves stability at higher speeds. The S4 in noticeably nose-heavy, since most of the engine is ahead of the front axle. The full-time quattro AWD minimizes understeer in most street driving conditions; although at high cornering loads, the front biased weight distribution combined with the driven front wheels produce moderate understeer. Full throttle acceleration involves no drama: just mash the throttle and the S4 takes off. The low ride height and sporty suspension settings ensure minimal roll during cornering. Sticky Dunlop summer tires provide crisp turn-in response. Unlike many other high performance competitors, the S4 allows the driver to approach the limits of its capabilities, without intimidation. Triple digit speeds are no problem for the S4, which remains composed and stable at such elevated velocities.
The Audi S4 combines the practicality of a sedan with sports car performance. Unlike the BMW M3, and Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, the AWD S4 can be an all-weather automobile. With its low key appearance and V-8 power, the S4 is the ideal sports sedan for the enthusiast who demands adolescent fun and adult responsibility, all in one automobile.
