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2012 Audi S4

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Overview

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2012 Audi S4 Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.7

It's been three years since Audi last changed the A4; a period of time that typically sees a vehicle's exterior age a bit as newer competition hits the scene. But the 2012 Audi A4 continues to look just as fresh and compelling as ever. With a choice efficient and powerful engines at the ready and generous interior room, the A4 Sedan, A4 Avant and S4 Sedan offer buyers plenty of refinement and creature comforts, with an eye toward performance and style, while remaining competitively priced. Though the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C Class, Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G37 Sedan have steadily improved over the past few years, the Audi A4 continues to hold its own.

You'll Like This Car If...

Fuel efficiency, excellent styling and a well-crafted interior are hallmarks of the 2012 Audi A4 line. Buyers searching for an attractive sport sedan with appropriate levels of standard equipment and a host of available technology will find the 2012 Audi A4 very appealing.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Like other German luxury vehicles, equipping the A4 with the full range of available options can quickly increase the price tag on the A4 to wallet-busting heights. While the A4 offers a nice level of standard equipment, a top-of-the-line model will cost you dearly.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.7
Driving Dynamics

8.2
Comfort & Convenience

7.4
Design: Interior & Exterior

8.0
Value

7.2
Safety

8.0

How It Ranks

#13

out of 27

MPG

#9

out of 26

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

9.8 out of 10

View all
consumer ratings

What's New for 2012

For 2012, the Audi A4 Premium Plus and Prestige models now come equipped with the Audi S line appearance package as standard equipment, and they also have stylish new 18-inch ten-spoke wheels.

Driving the S4

Driving Impressions The 2012 Audi A4 prioritizes precision over outright comfort on the road, though you won't hear us complain. The suspension manages to find a middle ground between the typically-soft Mercedes-Benz...

and the more-rigid BMW ride philosophies, which means that the A4 is a slightly sharper-handling machine than the C-Class. With its lightweight chassis and generous interior volume, the A4 makes a strong case for itself. And, with its responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline 4-cylinder engine, the A4 has more than enough horsepower and nearly instantly-available torque.

Favorite Features

Turbocharged Engine
In a class dominated by inline and V-6 engines, the 2012 Audi A4 stands apart with a boosted 4-cylinder that delivers smooth and plentiful power as well as top-notch fuel economy.

S line Package
For buyers who want to maximize the 2012 Audi A4's sportiness without climbing into S4 territory, the S line Package includes 19-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, more aggressive suspension tuning, subtle exterior enhancements, upgraded upholstery and genuine brushed-aluminum trim.

2012 Audi S4 Details

2012 Audi S4 Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Audi has a reputation for crafting superb interiors, and the 2012 A4 is no exception. Standard equipment includes a handsome four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, and a sportier three-spoke design is optionally available. There is a wide range of interior trim treatments for 2012, including aluminum or wood inlays and attractive red LED accent lighting in the headliner to illuminate the center console. Leather seating surfaces are standard equipment, and Alcantara inserts are available, as are special sport seats with more bolstering.

Exterior

Buyers familiar with the rest of the Audi lineup will recognize the company's single-frame grille and stylized LED accent lighting in the front of the 2012 A4. The A4 Avant, or wagon version, comes standard with aluminum roof rails, though blacked-out equipment is also available. The S4 has more aggressive body treatments befitting its sporting nature. The A4, A4 Avant and S4 all have a clean design that is still very attractive after three years, and a variety of wheel options allow individualizing the stylish appearance.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2012 Audi A4 line is available in three trim levels. The base trim is Premium, and there's very little that's basic about the standard equipment, with 17-inch alloy wheels, power front seats, leather seating surfaces and Sirius Satellite Radio, as well as numerous other creature comforts. The Premium Plus designation adds Bluetooth connectivity, LED daytime running lights and many other worthwhile features. Finally, the Prestige trim adds navigation and an HD Radio paired with an impressive Bang & Olufsen stereo system.

Optional Equipment

Audi has made navigation a stand-alone option on all A4 models for 2012. The A4 Premium also has the S line appearance package that includes different front and rear fascias, side skirts, unique door sills and badging. In the Avant configuration, the package also includes a power rear liftgate, and all body styles have driver memory. A4 Premium models also include adaptive front lighting and a lane-change assist system.

Under the Hood

The 2012 Audi A4 is powered by an efficient 2.0-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 211 horsepower and delivers noteworthy fuel economy. Front-wheel-drive versions of the A4 feature a continuously-variable transmission (CVT), while those with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system have a 6-speed manual or the excellent 8-speed Tiptronic automatic. Regardless of transmission or drivetrain, the A4 continues to be among the most fuel-efficient luxury-branded sedans on the market, beating the BMW 328i and Infiniti G25 Sedan, each of which offers considerably less torque than the Audi. The sportier S4, meanwhile, boasts a powerful 3.0-liter supercharged, direct-injection V6 engine that offers V8 performance and still-impressive fuel economy.

2.0-liter in-line 4 turbocharged
211 horsepower @ 4,300-6,000 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500-4,200 rpm
EPA City/Highway Mileage: 22/30 (FWD, CVT), 21/31 (AWD, manual), 21/29 (AWD, automatic)

3.0-liter supercharged V6
333 horsepower @ 5,500-7,000 rpm
325 lb-ft of torque 2,900-3,500 rpm
EPA City/Highway Mileage: 18/28 (S tronic automatic), 18/27 (manual

Pricing Notes

Based on our Fair Purchase Price data, shoppers are buying the 2011 Audi A4 2.0T for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), which starts above $32,000 for the front-wheel-drive Premium Sedan. Opt for the quattro all-wheel drive and the price is over $33,000 with the manual transmission; the Tiptronic transmission will add about $1,300. The A4 Premium Plus Sedan will be near $37,000, and the 2.0T Prestige trim level will be around $42,000. The 2011 Audi A4 2.0T Wagon will range from over $36,000 for a Premium model to over $46,000 for the Prestige trim. The S4 starts over $47,000 and can go to more than $55,000 when equipped with the S Tronic transmission and Prestige trim. Be sure to check Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price to see what others are paying for the A4 in your area. In terms of resale value, the Audi A4 doesn't do as well as the BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G Sedan and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and lags behind the Lexus IS.

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2012 Audi S4 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.8

Out of 10

Based on 20 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.8/10

Quality

9.8/10
Reliability

9.8/10

Performance

9.8/10
Comfort

9.6/10

Styling

9.9/10

I own an Audi S4 2012

By Rick (CA) on Wednesday, June 26, 2013

I don't own this car

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Impressive handling, steering, acceleration. sweet"

Cons: "Audi dealer said it doesn't come with track time.."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I love this car. I love it more after I had Audi put a Stasis chip in. It increased the 333hp to 410hp. This car gets up and moves. I was more impressed when mileage increased on long trips. That is as long as you keep your foot out of it. Couple weeks ago had the opportunity to drive at Fontana Raceway compliments of AUDI. I got to drive all the 2014 models on autocross and track. It wasn't until I got in the 2014 R8 @525hp that I came alive. At 140mph and coming into a turn I tapped the brakes it automatically down shifted one gear. Unreal, at that point in the apex of the turn I nailed it. That sucker just got up and screamed away. With the Quattro 4w/d and the S-tronic. VERY VERY impressive. I've raced all my life and this was the most impressive car I've ever driven."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Disappointed to switch from an A4 to the S4

By GM (OH) on Tuesday, June 04, 2013

I owned and sold this car
Reason: mileage, comfort, steering, quality - My approximate mileage is 10,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 8/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Great acceleration, aggressive look"

Cons: "Poor mileage, steering, comfort"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I had a 2010 A4 for three years and absolutely loved it. I don't think you can get a better mix of value, luxury and performance in the luxury entry level. I ordered a manual, 2013 S4 to get more performance, and had to wait three months for it. What a dissappointment!!! First of all, the original B8 was beautiful. The new LEDs are overdone, close to ugly. The front chairs are excellent for short rides, but they are tight and very uncomfortable after 20 minutes. The chairs are also much thicker than in A4, so it takes away from an already tight back seat space. The steering is unnatural. I could not drive straight. The electrical steering motor was jumping from left to right, nothing in the middle. Constantly adjusting. The mileage was 19MPG, rarely 20MPG, even on a light foot. I felt betrayed to splash $20k extra for an A4 with a V6. So I betrayed Audi and switched to a BMW 535i and what a difference in quality. And mileage is at 26.5 MPG. And now I can fit my kids in the back without being kicked. The S4 is perfect for a young person only looking for really good perfomance. But one should strongly consider the A4 and get a engine tune."

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A SLEEPING BEAST !!!!

By Ledou (CA) on Saturday, April 13, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,800

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "all of it"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"By far one of the best car i have ever driven in its class. The supercharger does the job and more. Whishes that the exhaust was a bit more racy, but really small detail. I am having lots of fun with it and getting ready to take it to our local race track...."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Best All Around Sport Sedan Ever!!!

By Gary M (NJ) on Friday, March 01, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to Drive, Reliable, All season Family car, MPG"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owned this car for 3 years and it has been very reliable. Only problem was water pump that was replaced in the first year on a recall. Audi has now extended the warranty on the engine and drive train to 100K miles. Car is a blast to drive, as quick as a 911 with room for 4 adults. If you have kids and want a sports car that you can drive year round (in snow) then this is the car for you. I love the black and red leather seats, Prestige Package and keyless entry. I have no complaints with this car and would buy another."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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If you appreciate cars, you'll LOVE this one!

By Greg (CA) on Monday, December 31, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 26,043

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Outstanding sports sedan, for the whole family"

Cons: "Really can't think of any that are significant"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"There simply aren't enough superlatives to describe this vehicle - by far the most awesome car I've owned yet. The power and acceleration, the handling, the technology, and, the silly grin it puts on your face -- if you're a Car Guy/Gal, you'll understand what I mean. Don't buy this car if you are just a point-A to point-B driver (i.e., if you just want transportation - basic, cheap and reliable). However, if you are the type who enjoys the ride along the way – and if you appreciate quality, you'll be completely satisfied, enamored and impressed by this unique and ever-so-capable sports sedan. I bought my '10 certified pre-owned S4 exactly one year ago today and I have not been disappointed. It has been very reliable, it's very intuitive and user-friendly, and the AWD system gives you total driving confidence. My Imola Yellow exterior also gets regular compliments and stares. The sport-tuned suspension is on the firm side but after you initially adjust to it, it's completely comfortable - on both short and long drives. Though I'd like a little more rumble in my exhaust note (and I may still obtain that with after-market parts), this super-charged V6 really does everything I can imagine needing. Well-done, Audi!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Two year update

By Johnner A (NY) on Thursday, October 25, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 35,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Very fast, MMI controls, comfortable, gorgeous"

Cons: "ummmmmmm"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have enjoyed my S4 for two full years now and feel as though I know it well. The engine is absolutely a gem. It is a shame that Washington is rendering V6 and V8 engines obsolete, being replaced with turbo fours. There will never be a four cylinder engine that feel and sounds as good as this supercharged V6. I have the 6sp manual but sometimes regret not having the slick DSG 7 speed auto. The stick is fine but offers no performance advantage over the twin clutch automatic. The interior looks like new and is solid as a bank vault. Seats are comfortable but rear leg room is not generous. I use winter tires through Buffalo winters and with them, the car is awesome in the snow. I have gotten so use to the MMI controls (single knob that controls audio etc.) that I miss it when driving any other car. The Bang and Olufson stereo blows any system I have heard away. The car won't disappoint for those looking for a fast, great looking, comfortable all season alternative."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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