After driving the S5 around for a week, getting behind the wheel of the S4 feels completely different. Suddenly I’ve transitioned from a speed junkie to a 20-year-old version of me who dreamed of driving around in a sports sedan (I’m Asian, so it was white - and in the 90’s it was a Honda, not an Audi).

I’m sitting lower to the ground and the interior exudes that sports car essence. The black/magma red interior in fine Nappa leather with Alcantara envelopes my being. The Daytona Grey exterior adds even more to the glamour. I’m always excited to review a new car, but something about this car is just different. I’m not a big fan of red, but damn, I like this feeling.

It’s not the first time the S4 has made me feel this way.


Not much has changed compared to last year’s S4 in terms of technical aspects of the car. It still hosts a 333 hp/ 325-lb ft. V6 engine with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and a 7-speed S-tronic transmission - and if you’re into manual transmissions like me, you’ll be happy to know that a six-speed transmission is available for buyers in the U.S.

As usual, it was time for a getaway joy ride to get the full experience of this beauty. We decided to head up to L.A., but I was really missing that adaptive cruise control during the slow-and-go freeway traffic. The Audi side assist that is included in the Technology Package is definitely a must because of those many crazy California drivers.

The Tech Package, which is an option at $2,900, includes:

• CD/DVD player with HD radio
• Audi MMI Navigation plus voice control
• Color driver information display
• Parking system with rearview camera
• Audi connect with online services (6-month subscription)
• Audi side assist

If you ever get stuck in street traffic in L.A. like we did (It took 1 ½ hours to drive 8 miles, no joke), make sure you’re driving an Audi. My 6’3” companion was able to comfortably take a nap in the back seat while my other passenger and I attempted to enjoy the scenery as our stomachs grumbled for tasty hamburgers. It was also my chance to play around with the 12-way power adjustable seat including lumbar adjustment...because when you’re sitting in traffic for that long, every inch of your back demands to be comfortable. You also need the Bang & Olufsen Sound System ($850) to jam to as you listen to Pandora.

I believe that the S4 has that something-for-everyone factor that many of the Audi models do not have. It’s relatively spacious for those with families - not too big or too small; it has decent gas mileage for the fuel-minded people; it has elegant style and comfort for everyone; a sporty growl from the exhaust (although Audi could amp it up just a tad bit); and it has all the tech goodies a driver needs.

Perhaps some may say that this car is a bit boring for a luxury sedan. “Understated luxury” is a phrase that gets tossed around Audi alot from automotive journalists, but true enthusiasts know that it’s not about being flashy. For me, the Black Optic package is flashy enough, which includes 19” V-spoke design wheels with titanium finish, a high-gloss black grill and window trim, plus the exterior mirrors are the same color as the body. The carbon atlas inlays ($500) create an even more sporty mystique.

The true test for me of whether or not a car is worth buying is fuel economy. During our week with the S4 we drove 764.5 miles, averaging 38 mph and 23.5 mpg, which I think would have been a little higher if L.A. city driving wasn’t part of the equation. I’d say it’s pretty decent for a sports sedan. EPA estimates are 18 city and 28 highway with a combined 21 mpg, so our average for the week was right in the middle. It gets my commuter car stamp of approval.

Luxury cars demand luxury prices, and at $59,175, this loaded S4 might be on the pricey side for some. Take off all the extras and you’re looking at a base price of $49,800.