gavriil

Exterior design
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The superiority of the new Audi S4 is therefore immediately reflected in its deliberately restrained appearance. The bodies of the S4 Saloon and Avant, which are sporty in terms of both their proportions and their basic shape, only differ subtly from the other members of the model line. It is the special details that identify the new S4 unmistakably as the sport version.

A typical situation that many drivers of the new Audi S4 will find themselves in when manoeuvring to overtake: a driver familiar with the Audi models looking in their rear-view mirror will see the more powerful, fully painted bumper with large air inlets, xenon headlights with contrasting titanium-coloured inner housings and aluminium-look door mirrors and immediately be aware that a very special Audi is approaching.

An awareness that is confirmed with a glance at the tail end when the S4 has driven past. Here the onlooker will notice the typically powerful exhaust tailpipes on both sides and – on the saloon version – a discreet rear spoiler as the characteristic features of the Audi S4.

S4 models can be identified from the side by sills in the same colour as the body, contrasting strips attached to the bottom of the doors and the characteristic “S” wheels of Avus design. 345 millimetre discs at the front are a visual indication of the brake system’s performance.

The new S4, like the other S models, can be ordered in a choice of exclusively offered exterior paint finishes: Imola Yellow, Brilliant Red, Nogaro Blue and Goodwood Green, pearl effect. The S4 can also be ordered in Brilliant Black, in the metallic colours Silver or Dolphin Grey and in Ebony Black or Moro Blue, both with pearl effect.



Interior design
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The Audi S4 is notable not only for its sporting exterior, but even more so for its inner values. This applies not only to its technology, but also to the interior. The principal attribute of this independent top-of-the-range model is its sporting character, which is clearly reflected among other things in its exclusive design and high-quality interior equipment.

The instrument cluster, for example, has the characteristic grey S dials and special needles. The three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with S badge also accentuates the vehicle’s particularly sporty character. If a 6-speed tiptronic is chosen, the gears can also be changed using shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel – an ergonomic concept that has already proven its worth on the multiple Le Mans winner, the Audi R8, and on the Audi RS 6.

Recaro sports seats provide firm lateral support and excellent comfort on long journeys. Not only the driver and front passenger benefit from these qualities, but also passengers on the two rear seats.

Inlays in carbon fibre (standard version) or optionally in birch grey, aluminium grey or black piano finish are exclusive to the S4. Like the special upholstery and trim materials for the seats and surfaces, these add a touch of sporting elegance.

The S4 comes with seats in a leather/cloth combination as standard; a leather/Alcantara combination and the particularly exclusive Silk Nappa leather version are also available as an option. Depending on the choice of material, the interior can be designed in various black/colour combinations and alternatively in silver or dark green.




The engine: a compact power pack
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The heart of the new Audi S4 is quite clearly its engine – a further refined V8 with a displacement of 4.2 litres and a five-valve cylinder head. This engine is notable not only for its dominant power output (253 kW/344 bhp), but also for its impressive and unbeatably short design.

Its compact dimensions – especially the length of only 464 millimetres – enable installation for the first time in what is also an extremely slim engine compartment for a vehicle in the B segment.

To make this compactness possible, the Audi engine developers installed a chain drive for camshafts and ancillaries on the engine output side. This made it possible to reduce the length of the engine by no less than 52 millimetres.

The engineers designing this new engine also made a saving in terms of weight. They succeeded, for example, in reducing the weight of the pistons by 70 grams each to 392 grams, whilst the connecting rods have been reduced in weight by 66 grams to 501 grams. These measures provide the basis for low frictional losses in the engine and a high maximum engine speed of 7,200 rpm.

An additional benefit: the entire V8 at only 195 kilograms total weight is just as light as its predecessor in the previous S4, a 2.7-litre V6 biturbo engine. This results in major benefits for the weight balance and handling characteristics.

On the other hand, the engineers have not saved anything in terms of power. The V8’s thrust enables the new Audi S4 with 6-speed manual gearbox to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.6 seconds. It takes just 20.6 seconds to reach 200 km/h, whilst the top speed is a governed 250 km/h.

The new 4.2-litre engine delivers its maximum power of 253 kW (344 bhp) at 7,000 rpm. The maximum torque of 410 Nm is available at 3,500 rpm. Even at just 1,100 rpm the large V8 produces almost 300 Nm, and between 3,000 and just under 4,500 rpm the peak-torque range is always above 400 Nm.

Clearly more impressive than such figures is the combination in practice of the engine’s spontaneous response to every movement of the accelerator pedal, its astonishing free revving and hefty torque that is characteristic of a V8. And then there is the experience of an equally characteristic V8 sound – reserved and practically free of vibration in the low speed band and with a sonorous tremolo under load – that makes no secret of the engine’s potential.

Power on the one hand and low emissions on the other are not contradictions for the Audi S4. Thanks to efficient emissions control with primary and main catalytic converters, it remains clearly within the EU IV limits.

The Audi S4 consumes an average of 13.3 litres of Super Plus fuel per 100 kilometres.



Manual gearbox or tiptronic: two times six gears plus quattro
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At launch all S4 models will be supplied with a 6-speed manual gearbox. This latest-generation gearbox with closely spaced ratios characteristic of a sports car is noted for its extremely precise, short shifts. Thanks to a special mount for the selector forks, the gear lever is effectively protected against driveline vibrations; the driver does not feel the gear lever trembling at all.

Internal friction reduced by a series of measures increases the efficiency of the manual gearbox. This means that engine power can be converted even more efficiently into forward propulsion.

A newly developed 6-speed tiptronic transmission with Dynamic Shift Program DSP and sport program will extend the range in the second half of 2003.

This automatic transmission is designed specifically to meet demanding handling requirements: weight reduction, rapid shifts and an optimised shifting strategy make sure that the convenience of the automatic transmission is combined with the sports performance specific to the S4.

The new 6-speed transmission is 21 kilograms lighter than its predecessor; it has a total weight of just 115 kilograms. The spread of ratios has increased by 25 percent compared with a 5-speed automatic. This means a much improved accelerating performance in the low gears and a clear reduction in engine speed and consequently a reduction in both noise level and fuel consumption at high speeds. These qualities make the Audi S4 the ideal vehicle for long journeys.

The shifting speed of the new 6-speed tiptronic has been significantly optimised. The driver benefits from more spontaneous gear changes particularly when downshifting. In addition, the fact that the engine automatically double-declutches further increases agility.

Both in position D and the sport program S, the shift program responds to influencing parameters such as lateral and longitudinal acceleration and the type of accelerator pedal movement. This means that irritating upshifts when cornering, for example, can be prevented if necessary.

All Audi S models come with quattro four-wheel drive as standard. This ensures excellent traction and directional stability, and minimises the influence of the drive forces on the car’s self-steering behaviour. The self-locking Torsen centre differential on the Audi S4 distributes the drive forces variably between the front and rear axles. This guarantees optimum straight-line running, high directional stability and maximum propulsion.

Running gear
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The lightweight aluminium suspension, based on the much-praised axle design of the A4 series, provides the ideal basis for maximum agility and, consequently, sheer driving pleasure.

Four-link front suspension and trapezoidal-link rear suspension enable maximum steering precision and clearly defined handling with excellent cornering stability. Ride comfort also benefits from this ingenious axle design because a low unsprung mass makes for a particularly sensitive response from the suspension. The wheel carriers on the new Audi S4 are made from aluminium for the same reason. Compared with a conventional steel construction this means a reduction in the unsprung mass of almost two kilograms per wheel.

This is a general characteristic for which the A4 model line has received unanimous praise in the automotive press since it first appeared, and which is accentuated even more clearly on this new model. The Audi development engineers have tuned the springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars even more consistently in favour of sports performance. And they have lowered the chassis – and therefore the centre of gravity – by 20 millimetres.

The new S4 generation comes as standard with one of the most elaborate and efficient rear suspension systems currently available: the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear axle, specially designed for quattro drive. Newly tuned toe-angle kinematics optimise the directional stability and the precision of the steering response even further.

Compared with the basic version, the new S4 has a much more direct steering ratio: as far as the driver is concerned, this is a contribution to the sports-oriented handling of the agile eight-cylinder version that can be experienced in all situations. The S4 can be guided extremely precisely around all kinds of corners. A standard feature on both the saloon and the Avant is the speed-dependent servotronic which enables precise steering at high speeds as safely as effortless manoeuvring and parking.

The Audi S4 is being launched with standard-fit 8x18-inch alloy wheels produced exclusively for this vehicle. These are fitted with tyres of size 235/40 R18 which unite good road grip with direct steering properties and defined directional stability. Size 7x17 wheels, with the same Avus design that characterises the other S models, are also available with 225/45 R17 winter tyres.




High-performance brakes with dual-rate servo
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The braking system is also matched to the powerful potential of the Audi S4. The ventilated discs measure 340 millimetres in diameter at the front, 300 mm at the rear. The system is operated via a new dual-rate servo. This gives the driver a sporty, firm feel at the brake pedal when low to medium rates of retardation are needed, but retains excellent controllability.

In the comfort braking range of up to around 0.5 g deceleration, the brake servo’s ratio is on a par with the other A4 models with a factor of 5.5 and thus ensures especially good control. Above 0.5 g the ratio is raised to the factor 12. This means that deceleration increases at a disproportionately high rate compared with brake actuating force – a clear advantage for a sporting style of driving.

The S4 thus achieves full deceleration with comparably low pedal force and with less pedal travel than on a conventional system. The Electronic Stabilisation Program ESP 5.7 including hydraulic brake assist ensures active driving safety.

Standard equipment

The top sports model in the A4 series: this claim is satisfied even by the standard equipment specification that the S4 and S4 Avant offer.

This of course includes safety features such as full-size front airbags, side airbags integrated into the seat backs and the head airbag system known as sideguard which covers the entire side window area and the A-posts.

Active safety benefits from the Electronic Stabilisation Program ESP and the high-performance brake system with dual-rate servo and brake assist. Standard features also include quattro permanent four-wheel drive which converts engine power with unfailing efficiency into forward movement and also ensures extremely safe handling in all road and weather conditions.

The S4 sports suspension lowers the vehicle’s ride height by 20 millimetres and – apart from its sporty appearance – means a clear advantage in terms of dynamic handling.

The exterior of the S4 models differs from the other models in the A4 series through Avus-design cast aluminium wheels of size 8x18-inch. Other identifying features include electrically adjustable and heated aluminium-design door mirrors, a discreet rear spoiler on the saloon, an original radiator grille with grid pattern and exclusive front and rear bumpers. The S4 Avant is fitted as standard with roof rails – either in anodised or black aluminium. The high-gloss package, another standard feature, contains aluminium-look roof drip mouldings and window capping strips.

Four exclusive colours make it easy to distinguish an S4 from the rest of its family at first glance: Imola Yellow, Nogaro Blue, Brilliant Red and Goodwood Green.

Carbon Atlas inlays or, as a no-cost option, inlays with a black piano finish, in silver aluminium or grey birch offer drivers the chance to customise their car’s interior. S4 badges on the nose and tail, on the scuff plates, in the instrument cluster, on the dashboard and on the 3-spoke sports steering wheel clearly indicate this Audi’s special status, even when stationary.

Recaro sports seats at front (with electric adjustment functions) and rear are an eye-catcher inside the S4. They provide excellent lateral support even when cornering at high speed and are also extremely comfortable on long journeys. The seats are upholstered in a cloth/leather combination as standard.

Comfort and convenience in the S4 are enhanced by numerous other standard equipment features – the deluxe automatic air conditioning with separate controls for driver and front passenger, for example. Other useful features include electric front and rear windows, radio remote control for the central locking with automatic close function and the storage package comprising cup holders, a storage net on the back of the front seats and drawers under the front seats.

All S4 models have high-intensity xenon headlights. The standard lighting package contains door lights, footwell lighting, light units on the door openers, for example, and background lighting on the centre console.

The asymmetrically split rear seat and a load-through facility with ski bag optimise the variability of the luggage compartment on both saloon and Avant models.

Optional equipment
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In addition to the standard specification, numerous optional extras provide scope for numerous different versions so that each S4 can be designed individually and in keeping with the customer’s personal taste. Here are just a few examples:

Audio systems, with 6 CD changer in the glove box and BOSE sound system as an option, provide a musical contrast to the sporty sound of the engine and, depending on features, traffic information using RDS technology.

Audi telematics provides an additional advantage in terms of information. The latest traffic information can be called up in accordance with the driver’s personal needs for a specific region or route and, if a navigation system is fitted, converted into graphic warnings about traffic hold-ups. Audi telematics also includes a service and emergency call function.

Seats and trims can be ordered as an option in a combination of Alcantara/leather or in Silk Nappa leather.

The basic car phone, radio and navigation functions can be operated at the optional 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel – which can also be supplied as a heated version if required. Voice control for operating the most important navigation, audio and car phone functions provides additional convenience and even greater operating reliability.

Insulating glass and the solar sunroof for supplying power to the car’s ventilation system when the ignition is turned off ensure a particularly high standard of comfort in high outside temperatures. At the same time, a coolbox in the glove compartment keeps refreshing drinks at a pleasant temperature.

dkelly3854

SIMPLY AMAZING, That may replace my CL someday.

Zapata

nice Sux they took away the turbo

gavriil

I prefer this engine over the 2.7T engine.

Shotgun3131

Ill take 2 please...... I wish.

Nashua_Night_Hawk

This is what I am considering next to Volvo SS60R!

Sweet.... bit small to my taste... but I have a family hauler so no complaint!

Nashua_Night_Hawk

I pass on the Auto... Wished they did an SMG ... But Ah they gave a real NAV!

Any guess on price for Fullly Loaded S4?!

mattg

i wonder how it will compare in the modability department though?

SicK TypeS

if i had money to get that car, i couldn't think of anything else that i would even consider getting...btw, we're talking like 50g's right?

Nashua_Night_Hawk

will do 13.5s in 1/4mile ?

bkknight369

excellent job as always gavrill

how does this car compare to the M3?

Is the 6 speed steptronic similar/equal to smg?

Beltfed

It doesn't, it's heavier and will be slower than an M3 and it certainly won't handle as well.

But, I don't think beating an M3 is the S4's mission. It's a nice, comfortable, very quick sporting sedan.

Only thing I don't like are those black moldings under the doors, what in the world are those F*ing things.....they belong on a bumper car not an Audi. Maybe they will come painted when the S4 finally arrives, I think I heard that somewhere on the net.

Scooter

i'd love to see the Maple wood on the old S4 in there or that birche grey they got

personally, i always love a combo of luxury/sport interior mixed with an aggressive exterior

cusdaddy

I don't know... I may be in the minority, but it really doesn't do it for me. I really loved the older S4 (was about to get it instead of my CL, but the sticker shock got to me).... It was easily moddable and not too expensive.

This car seems kinda boring, I wish Audi had made a TT version of the 3.0, instead of the V8. I am sure it drives REALLY nice, it looks nice, but those door mouldings have GOT to go.

I think I would rather get a CTS-V (if it has the LS6 engine) or a M3 over this.

I am RobG

what i dont like is that this overly powerful v8 make this s4 the same speed as the old one....which is why i will never buy it. Quattro is great, but if i get an s4 its bi-turbo...more room to play with

Zapata

Not me Sure aftermarket support of S/C and turbos will make this car a beast but Audi could've/should've done it with the old engine. They've had the RS4 overseas for how long now? Don't get me wrong this v8 has a lot of potential.

Gator CL-S

gavriil, you have simply outdone yourself. I am in love. I don't know how my girlfriend is going to take this. Damn I'm gonna miss her.

Rod

Doesn't 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds seem a bit on the slow side for a 4.2L V84.2 with 344 bhp? What's the expected price?

Chaptorial

Jesus thats everything you need to know about the new S4, minus the price and some speed specs.

Looks good but i'd like to know the price ranges.

gavriil

Probably high 40s to low 50s.

gavriil

We'll find out when the car is tested by mags. Though I have to say....that:

I am perceving a change in strategy by Audi with this S4. This car will not go against the M3. There will be an R-S4 version which will be way faster than both the S4 as well as the current M3.

What I think is happening is that Audi is beating BMW to this new strategy. I think BMW will also follow with 2 M3 versions in the future when the M3 gets a V8. So we will see a more civil M3 V8 version, just like this S4 car here and then a more "R" spec version which will be LIKE the CLS M4 we are getting in 2003. Audi might look better by the end of 2003 when the RS4 will be out.

Note: The RS4 is excpected to ge the RS6's engine. The one with the 2 turbos and the 450HP.

gavriil

Certainly not as well as the Turbo engine. But most people dont care. Most people dont modify. I am one of them actually.

gavriil

Ask me if I am glad to hear people ALREADY mention the CTS-V in the same sentence as the M3. Just go ahead and ask me.

Time for the Germans to start feeling the American pressure. Enough is enough.

gavriil

Hehehe...

gavriil

Which means that the car will be heavy. Super heavy.

Red Rider

I love it, all that power and Quattro. Watch out in the twisties

BLK CLS

When the new S4 can top this, then I'll consider

http://www.smalldogstudios.com/60.mov

bkknight369

Isnt there a v8 m3 out already? I heard they only made like a handful, cause they wanted to just used in LeMans. I also heard it was sucking, cause it wasnt performing any better than their older one...

Dave

Careful on any of these Quattro equipped Audi's. Great cars but if you ever have to replace one tire due to a nail, etc., you may have to replace all four, not just the bad one. I may be wrong about this, but I read this had something to do with the Quattro gears!

o snap its eric

i think you get the more potential out of a v6 rather than a v8.

o snap its eric

wel you know what i mean... with all them technolgies and shit

BLK CLS

No I don't get what you mean. My family has 3 audis, and the only thing I have ever read not to do is to put on different SIZE tires.

Now if on your car if your tires were balding and you replaced one with a new one would that make any sense?

If the tires are relatively new it will be fine, and if you need it can get shaven down to match the others.

Maybe someone tried to scam you, but the only thing that the Audi Torsen doesn't like is different size tires. You can have different size wheels, but as long as the overall dimension of the tire remains the same it's fine. And putting on a new tire if one goes flat does not damage quattro, I've gone through enough sets of tires to know.

Chief F1 Fan

I think the S4 is meant to compare w/ the m3 and C32 for that matter. The germans are hellbent on having the car w/ the biggest hp figures to sell and it only benefits us. Look at the new V12's mercedes is putting into C and S class cars-like 493 hp? And the new E55 has over 500 hp! The RS4 will trounce the m3, but something tells me bmw will not rest on its laurels allowing this to happen for long. There were V8 m3's produced for AMLS series but the scrutineers banned it after one season. It has not been released stateside, for sale.

neoprufrok

Yeah, my S4 was much better looking, more modifiable and wasn't so damn heavy. 340hp and it can't take an M3 (0-60 times are woeful for a car with that much hp)? That's a very poor showing by Audi.

Python2121

cusdaddy:

here ya go!


http://www.audi.co.uk/company/pressr...ge=presscentre

Red Nj-s

yea, as long as it has VTEK and a big aluminum wing

Zoot

The day I see MB put a V12 in a 30k car will be amazing! :P





P.S. I know u ment CL-class...