AUDI is intent on giving the A4 more glamour. In 2005 the Germans worked hard in successfully establishing the volume models in the refreshed B7-series. For 2006 it’s all about boosting the A4’s image and desirability. And the latest S4, with a growling 253kW V8 and quattro all-wheel drive, fires off the first round of Audi’s supermodel assault with a bang. After that a veritable cannonball follows, in the form of the 209kW RS4. But that’s for a future new-model story. We can’t wait!
Audi S4 sedan
Released: December 03
Ended: October 05
Family Tree: A4With 253kW and 410Nm in reply to the BMW M3’s 252kW and 365Nm, the B6-series A4-based S4’s credentials were at last even with – if not equal to – its hyper-talented nemesis. In fact, on paper the Audi seemed superior, with all-wheel drive, two extra doors or a wagon alternative, and world-leading cabin quality. And it still does, if outstanding all-round driveability and versatility are your priorities. In this regard the S4 still has no peer. But it lacked the visceral appeal of the sinewy M3 – even when the updated yet identical-output ‘short’ V8 came along from August 2004.
Super Test
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