My S4 - the verdict

[alex_123_fra]

Well, I finally gave in to the temptation and bought myself a phantom black S4 saloon. 6-month old manual car (as thinking ahead in terms of modifying) with around 7,500 miles and in great condition. Options-wise pretty much everything except audi lane assist and rear parking camera.

Having come from a B7 RS4, I wasn't expecting as much straight line performance or finesse in terms of handling. Boy was I pleasantly suprised! I would go as far as to say that in real world driving this thing will edge an RS4 in a straight line. The torque is relentless and yet all very quiet and relaxed with a feint hint of V6 growl and no detectable supercharger whine. I need to test this a little more but I think it is also longer geared than an RS4 and this will help it 0-60, 0-100 etc.

Handling-wise I went for the sport diff, damping control and dynamic steering. This is quite handy for a mix of town, motorway and spirited driving. In dynamic mode, the car becomes generally nice and tight with fast turn-in and sharp steering. Front-rear balance is impressive and the lighter engine certainly makes it easier to negotiate tighter fast bends compared to an RS4. Again, I don't think much would separate the S4 and RS4 in real world and normal track driving.

Quality is as usual superb. I particularly like the seats which feel very nice and are not as creaky as my RS4 seats were. In comfort mode, I can actually notice a small difference in terms of improved ride quality.

Overall, this car is an absolute gem and a bargain for the price you pay. I have absolutely no regrets.

[Pete.S]

Congrats Alex - great choice, welcome to the fold

Your comments make me wonder even more why there isn't more hype surrounding the B8 S4 in the UK. Although I've never driven an RS4 I can appreciate what you're saying having come from the B6 S4. It truly is a fantastic, yet understated bit of kit.

PS try the comfort setting on a particularly bumpy motorway (eg the M40 s/bound junctions 10 - 8 ) - works a treat