2020 Audi S4 review

What We Like

Performance: The S4 balances effortless acceleration, ample traction, and the automotive equivalent of fast-twitch fibers. It hits 60 mph from a standstill a second faster than the A4, and slows just as ably with smooth, even braking. Equipped from the factory with all-wheel drive, it makes turns and cornering feel instinctual. S4 models with the S Sport package adds an adaptive suspension and a slick rear differential that further sharpens handling. Driver-selectable modes adjust stiffness to conditions: Comfort for rough and broken roads, Dynamic when you need to squash body roll in spirited driving.

Comfort: The S4 is all about performance and luxury in equal measure. The suspension soaks up the road like a larger cruising sedan, but retains firmness and control for fast turns and cornering. The standard seats are firm, supportive, and — bonus — come with a massage function and heating, while sport seats with more pronounced bolstering are optional. Driver fatigue won’t be a problem. Taller passengers might want more room, but the S4’s rear seats are comfortable enough even on long trips. The cabin is quiet, and even tire noise is muted.

Technology: The S4’s infotainment is anchored by a new-for-2020 10.1-inch touchscreen. Navigation uses Google Earth mapping, and can be shown on the dash-mounted screen or in the digital gauge display, directly in the driver’s line of sight. Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ come standard, and the excellent optional Bang & Olufsen audio system can handle a variety of music and volume levels with exceptional clarity.

What Needs Improvement

Driver-assist systems: Every S4 has standard automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Unfortunately, Audi follows the norm for European luxury brands and reserves other features, like blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane centering, for its higher trims. Considering that systems like this are standard equipment on many economy cars from this year, it’s hard not to feel a little shortchanged.