Frankfurt 2015: All-New Audi S4 (B9) Sedan And Avant Revealed Packing 354HP, 500Nm

Making its premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show is the new Audi S4, available in sedan and Avant variants. Its introduction comes merely a few months after the all-new, fifth-generation (B9) Audi A4 was debuted globally, on which the performance-oriented model is based on.

Under the hood of the new Audi S4 resides an uprated 3.0-litre TFSI V6 engine that now offers 354hp and 500Nm, where the latter is accessible from 1,300 rpm to 4,500 rpm. An eight-speed tiptronic transmission directs the power onto Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system that channels engine torque based on a 60:40 rear-front split during normal driving. If need be, it is capable of channelling up to 70% to front axle or up to 85% to the rear. A sport differential is also available as an option.

On the performance front, the S4 does the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.7 seconds and continues going to an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h. Those who are concerned about efficient will be glad to know that the S4 sedan consumes less than 7.4 litres of fuel per 100km, translating to a C02 emissions level of 170g/km.

Like the standard model, the Audi S4 sits on the Volkswagen Group’s latest MLB Evo platform and adopts the familiar five-link suspension on the front and rear axle, but sees the S sport suspension revised to be 23mm lower. Ride height is not affected however when opting for the optional suspension that features active damper control. The Audi drive select handling system which comes as standard allows the driver to vary between suspension modes, modulating the continuous damping control dampers.

Distinguishing the Audi S4 from the basic A4 requires a keen eye. At the front, the Singleframe grille is more pronounced, flanked by Matrix LED headlights, while the side mirrors are finished with an aluminium look. Moving on to the side, the 18-inch five-twin-spoke wheels (wrapped in 245/40 size tyres) are different in design with the option of 19-inch alternatives available as well. The rear sees a more significant difference with the S-specific rear bumper that integrates a black honeycomb grille, an S‑typical diffuser clip, and the four tailpipes of the dual-branch exhaust system.

Similarly, the cabin gets an update to reflect the S4’s performance capabilities. S sport seats are fitted, upholstered in a combination of Nappa leather and Alcantara. Black is the colour theme used for the interior as well, accompanied by matt brushed aluminium inlays. ‘S4’ badging and logos are also littered around the cabin as well.

As with current Audi models, the virtual cockpit fully digital instrument cluster is available as an option. The new MMI multimedia system is also featured here, based on the processing power of the second generation modular infotainment system (MIB). For the top MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and 8.3 inch monitor, a wide range of in-car options including LTE, Audi smartphone interface, and navigation, is available as well.

Driver assistance systems include Audi active lane assist, adaptive cruise control Stop&Go including traffic jam assist, Park assist, cross traffic assist rear, exit warning, collision avoidance assist, turn assist, and the Audi pre sense systems are specified on the S4 as well.