The 2009-2016 Audi S4 Is The Supercharged Sedan You Should Be Shopping For

The 2009-2016 Audi S4 formed part of the B8 generation, which replaced the cult classic B7 range. The S4 in question was particularly good because a supercharged gasoline engine powered it. If that didn’t tickle your fantasies just a little, perhaps knowing that the car had Audi’s sure-footed Quattro all-wheel-drive system could entice your senses to the point of garnering attention. What was of particular interest about the B8 S4 was that it came with a six-speed manual transmission. Sure, we can’t compare today’s automatic-first approach to yesteryear’s love for the manual, but this S4’s manual comes from a particularly good time for three-pedal setups.

The B8 S4’s time was an interesting one. Supercharged technology and implementation were all the rage, but the market was quickly shifting towards turbocharging. The forced-induction technology was more sophisticated and refined than the naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 found in the B7. Still, it didn’t lose any of the energy and liveliness required from a four-door sports saloon.

Now that the car is 9- to 16-years-old, is it worth considering on the used market? And what should you know or look out for?

Tracing Its History In The USA

S4 Arrives In America, But No Wagon?

The Audi S4 arrived in 2009 for the 2010 model year. Not only was it a natural progression for Audi’s performance cars, but the high-performance car marked the start of Audi’s transition away from V8 engines in the A4 range. The first models arrived late in 2009, and they emphasized Audi’s commitment to efficient performance amid tightening emissions standards. The car was Audi’s answer to rivals like the BMW 335i and Mercedes-Benz C350, and came equipped with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. Even as the market was gradually moving away from manual transmissions, the S4’s gearbox was widely praised for its precision and how well-spaced the ratios were.

For Audi, the good news was how positively the buying public accepted the car. It was also the automaker’s entry into the luxury-performance segment in the US, as the car featured an athletic design with shorter overhangs, a wider stance, and LED daytime running lights. The company gave it a more aggressive look than the standard A4, which enthusiasts lapped up.

Between 2009 and 2016, the S4 cemented Audi’s position as a serious player in the luxury performance saloon segment. In its final year, the sedan had matured into a well-rounded package. And as the B9 made landfall, it introduced turbocharged technologies on the 3.0-liter engine.

Supercharged Engine, Performance, & Manual Transmission

A Classic Combination For Pure Enjoyment

The 2009-2016 Audi S4 featured the Volkswagen Group’s supercharged 3.0L V6 TFSI engine. It delivered 333 horsepower at 5,500-7,000 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 2,900-5,300 rpm. With a boost pressure of 7 psi, the engine had a distinctive whine under full-throttle acceleration, a welcome trait of supercharged powerplants. The key traits included direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and an aluminum block to save some weight.

The S4 wasn’t slow, either. With Sports mode engaged and the car’s relevant settings activated, 0-60 mph flew by in 4.9 seconds, and it topped out at an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The Quattro all-wheel drive system has a 40:60 rear bias setup, making it more playful when tearing up your favorite stretch of twisting road.

As great as these things are, the real party trick came in the form of the six-speed manual transmission. Purists praised it, especially for the clutch, which provided good feedback. Those who often ventured out in the S4 to explore its many facets claimed that first gear was ideal for quick launches. Second and third were fantastic for spirited driving, while fourth through sixth were ideal for highway cruising. Notably, the clutch was prone to wearing out quicker in stop-and-go traffic, but replacing it with a high-performance unit will significantly mitigate these issues.

What To Know If You Want One

Take Notes, You’d Want To Hear This

If you’re in the market for one of these now-classic sports saloons, chances are that you are probably looking at an option that’s at least nine years old, meaning a 2016 model. The risk with this, as much as you try to avoid it, is that the car in question would have high mileage. Scouring AutoTempest, a 2014 Audi S4 Manual with the lowest mileage at 74,472 miles, while prices range between $8,999 for a 2013 example and $28,990 for a 2016 model.

Now for the serious discussion. Are you facing potential challenges with a used Audi S4? Unequivocally, yes.

The supercharger is generally reliable, provided you stick to the mandated maintenance and service schedules. But even if these were adhered to, the tensioner on the timing chain is prone to failing, so thoroughly review the service history for any signs of this. If there are no receipts, ask why. Also, check for recalls on the NHTSA website and see what pops up. Other engine-related issues may include broken water pumps, cracked thermostats, and leaked coolants. If the previous owner was an aggressive driver, have a mechanic check the clutch and entire transmission unit, including the flywheel.

The suspension, though a sports one, is not immune to faults. Therefore, give the control arms, bushings, and shocks a proper inspection. The differentials can leak fluids if not taken care of properly, and the brakes can take a beating, too, under aggressive driving.

To put the maintenance costs in perspective, RepairPal lists the annual costs as follows:

• 2010 MY: $1,166
• 2011 MY: $1,096
• 2012 MY: $1,106
• 2013 MY: $1,250
• 2014 MY: $1,215
• 2015 MY: $1,143
• 2016 MY: $1,235

Verdict: Should You Get One?

Understand it, And You’ll Love It

Even though it’s 2025, the supercharged V6 3-pedal Audi S4 remains one of those sports cars that gets enthusiasts excited. The manual transmission adds another layer to both the ownership and driving experience, whether you’re taking the family on an incredible Sunday drive or carving up a mountain pass. It’s a feeling that’s becoming rarer in today’s world, where it feels like all cars are funneling into a feel-the-same pot.

So, in short: if you value that analog feel and can step into the S4 knowing that the maintenance will require premium care, then it’s a definite yes.

Sources: Audi, AutoTempest, J.D. Power, RepairPal