Following the recent introduction of a new A4 for 2009, Audi is now unveiling the high-speed variant of its luxury sport sedan, the 2010 S4. Sporting subtle sheetmetal changes from a regular model, the S4 is distinguished by new front and rear aprons, aluminum-look side mirrors, a rear lip spoiler, quad exhaust, and 18-in., cast-aluminum S-design wheels (19-in. wheels are optional) Inside, S4 drivers enjoy new sport seats, special aluminum trim, S4 badging, and a new instrument cluster. But while the previous S4 had a 4.2L, 340-hp V-8 underhood, for 2010 Audi has returned to forced-induction, equipping the new S4 with a 3.0L supercharged TSFI V-6 instead. Good for 333-hp and 324 lb-ft of torque, the TFSI engine has slightly less power than the old V-8 but it sports considerably more twist, and the 2010 S4's 0-62-mpg time improves to 5.1 sec (5.2 sec for the Avant wagon). In addition, the outgoing V-8 was a gas-guzzler, but with the help of a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission (with paddle shifters) geared for efficiency in automatic mode, the new model gets an estimated 24 mpg on the highway. A six-speed manual is also available, and quattro all-wheel drive is standard.
Besides quattro, the S4 also includes several changes to improve handling as well. Stiffer shocks, a 20mm-lower chassis, aluminum suspension components, and larger brakes are on the list of upgrades, and Audi has added a new active sport differential that can channel power to the outer wheel during a turn to reduce oversteer and understeer. Audi's Drive Select system takes adjustable suspensions a step further by adding variable throttle response, shift points, and steering feel depending on the driver's preference. Tech goodies also include Audi's MMI system, Bluetooth hands-free calling, blind-spot monitors, park assist with a rearview camera, two different navigation systems, and an optional 14-speaker, 505-watt Bang & Olufsen stereo. The S4 will reach U.S. showrooms by September 2009.

2010 audi s4