2010 Audi S4 Review

First Impressions

They’re called under-the-radar cars. They don’t sport big wings, Cherry Bomb mufflers or flame paint jobs. To the contrary, they appear relatively sedate. It’s the concept of sophisticated performance, and it’s jammed into every crevice of the 2010 Audi S4 (view photos). By all appearances, the S4 looks like an Audi A4 that’s been doctored with a new set of rims, some minor body enhancements, and a few differentiating badges. Inside you’ll find fancy leather and a few examples of the requisite S4 nomenclature. The result is a ride that confidently states its intentions, but not so loud as to raise the eyebrows of the local 5-0.

Pricing, Trims and Options

If you’re thinking that a 2010 Audi S4 might look pretty darn good in your garage, plan on laying out at least $46,725 to make it happen. That’s the base price with the six-speed manual and standard Premium Plus package; opt for the automatic transmission and you’re up to $48,125. These figures reflect an $875 destination and handling charge.

From there, you can pack on enough extras to jack the price north of $60,000. Among the options you’ll find are Sprint Blue Pearl Effect paint ($475), 19-inch alloys ($900), two-tone Silk Nappa leather upholstery ($1,000), various interior trims ($500-$750), and rear-side airbags ($350). Buyers can also select a navigation system tied to Audi’s MMI central command system ($2,500), a Sports Rear Differential package ($1,100), or the Audi Drive Select system that allows for personalized engine, transmission, and suspension settings ($3,950). Priced at $6,100, the Prestige Package ups the ante with goods like a Bang & Olufsen sound system, the navigation unit, and more.

Interior Features

At first glance, the 2010 Audi S4’s cabin doesn’t appear all that inviting. Peer inside and you’ll see S4-embossed seats built for cornering. But comfort? The answer is yes. With the front buckets’ deep bolsters and a somewhat intrusive dash, getting seated isn’t as smooth as it could be, but once your butt is planted you’ll discover firm yet supportive cushions. The seat bottom is a smidge on the flat side, but Audi compensates with plenty of comfy, padded surfaces and a tilting and telescoping, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Rear passengers are provided decent amounts of head and foot room.

Visually, the 2010 Audi S4’s interior showcases refinement. Materials feel and look like quality pieces, from the grade of the leather to the fluid action of the primary controls. Of course, you can blow all this refinement out of the water by cranking Kid Rock from the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

That bit of hardware is something to behold, but I took minor issue with the climate control system. Instead of allowing me to use one button or dial to change the fan speed or adjust the heated driver’s seat, I had to use a button and a dial to complete these mundane tasks. Trivial, yes, but aggravating just the same.

Safety, Quality and Reliability

When you have a car built for Autobahn speeds, it’s a good idea to make sure it’s safe. S4 shoppers will be pleased to learn that this uber-quick sport sedan scores five out of five stars in all crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The A4, on which the 2010 Audi S4 is based, was awarded a Good score for front- and side-impact crash results by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), that organization’s highest rating. Such accolades are attributable to the S4’s stiff body structure and features like six standard airbags (two additional rear-side airbags are optional). Other safety technology includes Audi’s Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), a rear park-assist system, and a rearview camera.

Reliability data is not yet available for the 2010 S4. The A4, which does not share its engine with the S4, offers average reliability. If new owners do have a problem with their S4, Audi covers them with a four-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance spans four years with no mileage limits.