Return of performance-focused Audi A4 range flagships with new V6 TFSI engine

354PS, 0 to 62mph in 4.7 seconds – figures which could just as easily be associated with an RS model are now being delivered by the all-new Audi S4 and S4 Avant. The new performance flagships combine the intelligent lightweight design, completely re-engineered platform and unparalleled technological sophistication of the latest A4 with a completely new turbocharged V6 TFSI engine which replaces their predecessors’ supercharged unit. The heart of the S models is a newly developed V6 engine with petrol direct injection and turbocharging. The 3.0 TFSI has an output of 354PS; its 500 Nm of torque is available across a wide range of speeds from 1,300 to 4,500 rpm. The engine outstrips its predecessor in terms of power and torque, while simultaneously offering significantly lower fuel consumption and weight.

OneShift Editorial Team

22 Sep 2015

The engine can accelerate the Audi S4 from 0 to 62mph in 4.7 seconds, and the electronic limiter kicks in at 155mph. Despite its considerably improved performance, the V6 is extremely efficient. In the NEDC cycle test, the S4 Saloon proves that it is capable of returning up to 38.2mpg, equating to 170 grams of CO2 per kilometer. The new eight-speed tiptronic transmission is highly efficient and provides fast, comfortable and responsive gear changes. Whenever the driving situation allows, it switches to a freewheeling mode to save fuel.

The appearance of the new S4 models is subtly understated. At the front, the Single frame grille and the accentuated horizontal lines underline the width. The prominence of the bumpers and air inlets is further accentuated. Many of the add-on parts are painted in finely graduated matt grey tones, enhanced by chrome trimming at selected points.

In profile the aluminium-look exterior mirror housings are a visual highlight, and the strongly profiled sill trims also give both models a striking appearance. On the tailgate, a separating edge provides targeted aerodynamics. The S‑specific rear bumper integrates a black honeycomb grille, an S‑typical diffuser clip, and the four tailpipes of the dual-branch exhaust system. Intelligent composite construction characterizes the body. This makes it exceptionally torsionally rigid, safe, and lightweight. It is the basis for the low unladen weight of the car. The S4 Saloon with quattro drive as standard tips the scales at 1,630 kilograms, the Avant at 1,675 kilograms.

The spacious interior can comfortably hold five passengers. The acoustic comfort sets new standards in the class, while the build quality is a particular highlight. 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 homogeneous styling with broad air vent strip on the instrument panel and integrated air conditioning control panel gives the interior a generous width. In darkness, LED light guides outline the profiles of the doors and the centre console.

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. Typically for an S model, black is the dominant colour in the interior. The standard inlays are made of matt brushed aluminium.

The technical innovations in the interior include the optional Audi virtual cockpit. 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.

Credits: Oneshift News Team