Audi just can't seem to make up its mind about the S4. First, it was powered by a puny 2.7-litre V6 juiced up to 265 horsepower with the addition of two very steroidal turbochargers. In 2003, in an effort to compete with the Joneses (in this case, BMW), it was determined that two extra pistons had a whole lot more cachet than two turbochargers. Hence, until very recently, the S4 was powered by a 4.2L V8.
But small-displacement V8s need to rev to make power and, as glorious as all that cacophony may be, high engine speed equals high friction -- anathema to fuel efficiency -- and in these environmentally conscious days, even a pocket rocket has to be as green as possible.
The answer was a return to a blown engine (forced-induction engines can be smaller and don't need to rev as high to make power, both boons to fuel economy). But, this time, instead of twin turbochargers, Audi has plunked a single Eaton Roots-type supercharger inside the engine bay to force feed the now 3.0L V6. It's made all the more confusing because the S4 wears the "T" badging (as in V6T) usually reserved for its turbocharged cars. Not only that, but the supercharged 3.0L takes a step backward in the horsepower department, boasting only 333 Shetlands, while the outgoing 4.2L had 340.
Of course, Audi is not in the business of making successively worse -- or slower -- cars, so there's more to the new S4 than a slight loss in horsepower. In fact, thanks to the benefits of supercharging, there's 23 more pound-feet of torque -- 325 versus 302 -- from the V6 than the V8. Perhaps more importantly, that torque peak occurs at a much lower 1,500 rpm with the blown V6.
If you're thinking that makes the new S4 gutsier at low speeds, you're right. Immediately noticeable is that the 2010 jumps off the line where the previous V8 version needed to gather revs before it gathered momentum. Audi says it scoots to 100 klicks an hour in just 5.1 seconds, a breath quicker than the outgoing V8. It's definitely more responsive.
Design
- S4-specific interior and exterior distinctive features include:
- New rear LED lighting
- Front/rear bumpers, including unique front grille
- Trunk lid with integrated spoiler
- Aluminum optic mirrors
- Special 18” wheels standard with high performance tires
- S4 brake calipers with logo
- Sport seats with unique interior color offerings
- Black interior headliner
- S4-badged steering wheel, aluminum door sill inlays, key fob, and gauge cluster
- Brushed aluminum interior trim with available carbon fiber, wood, and stainless steel options
- Typical Audi interior design is modern and sophisticated, with clear attention to detail.
- S4 Aluminum-optic exterior accents include front and rear diffuser blades, mirror housings, and four exhaust pipes.
Dynamics
- Modular Longitudinal Chassis architecture is the foundation for a benchmark sport sedan.
- Extensive use of new ultra-high-strength steels increase rigidity of the body while also reducing weight.
- Repositioned clutch / torque-converter allows more forward position of front axle.
- Better agility and turn in
- Better axle load distribution
- Shorter front overhang
- Longer wheelbase = more comfortable ride
- Repositioned steering rack, lower and closer to the wheel carriers lowers center of gravity and provides more direct steering control/feedback.
- Sporty proportions and muscular stance enhanced due to longer, wider, and lower dimensions.
- Reduced front overhang adds to visual sportiness.
Powertrain and Performance
- Standard power train will be the new 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 mated to quattro® all-wheel drive
- Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual gearbox and a new 7-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission.
- 3.0 TFSI V6 specifications:
- FSI direct injection with intercooled supercharger
- 333hp – 325 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph 5.1 sec (est.)
- Top speed 155 mph
- Latest generation of quattro® all-wheel drive is employed, with asymmetric rear-biased torque split (40% front / 60% rear under nominal conditions).
- New available quattroSport rear differential dynamically varies torque between the rear wheels.
- Fuel economy is significantly improved over previous generation S4.
- Braking system is upgraded specifically for the S4.
Innovations
- MMI operating logic standard (with central display screen)
- Audi Drive Select – varies the engine, transmission, steering, and suspension damping characteristics to suit the driver’s preferences
- Self-opening trunk lid
- Audi Intelligent Key – stores service information in the key
- Advanced Key keyless entry and starting
- Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface
- Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
- Audi Parking System rear with rearview camera
- Electromechanical parking brake
- DVD-based Navigation system with voice control
- Audi Side Assist lane change assistant
- Bang & Olufsen 505W 14-speaker sound system
- Standard 6-speed manual and optional S tronic 7-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel shift paddles
Dimensions
Interior is 20mm longer, rear knee room increased by 36mm, leg room, headroom and shoulder room also increased.
- USA S4 sedan goes on sale in Fall 2009 (as a 2010 model year vehicle), with pricing expected to be similar to the outgoing model. S4 Avant body style will not be offered in the USA.
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