Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2014 Audi S4 3.0 Supercharged Quattro S Tronic sedan. The “S” in S4 means Supercharged as opposed to “T” for Turbocharged engine. If you didn’t see last week’s A5 review, it was turbocharged and I am repeating the explanation of the difference between Super and Turbo charging:
Let’s start with the similarities. Both turbochargers and superchargers are called forced induction systems. They compress the air flowing into the engine that has the advantage of stuffing more air into the cylinders which means more fuel can also be stuffed in as well so you get more power from each explosion in each cylinder. Thus = more power.
The typical boost provided by either a turbocharger or a supercharger is 6 to 8 pounds per square inch (psi). Since normal atmospheric pressure is 14.7 psi at sea level you get about 50-percent more air into the engine.
The key difference between a turbocharger and a supercharger is its power supply. In a supercharger, there is a belt that connects directly to the engine to turn the compressor, like an alternator does. A turbocharger, on the other hand, gets its power from the exhaust stream. The exhaust runs through a turbine, which in turn spins the compressor.
There are tradeoffs in both systems. In theory, a turbocharger is more efficient because it is using the “wasted” energy in the exhaust stream for its power source. On the other hand, a turbocharger causes some amount of back pressure in the exhaust system and tends to provide less boost until the engine is running at higher RPMs. Superchargers are more responsive and avoid the characteristic delay you get from Turbo boost compression. Superchargers are also easier to install but also tend to be more expensive.
General Information:
It is assembled in Ingolstadt, Germany. Classification is Compact. Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Germany 75%, Engine – Hungary, Transmission: Germany.
Cars from Audi: A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, allroad, Q5, Q7, R8, RS5, RS7, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, SQ5 &TT.
Handling & Performance:
Super-fast off the line with a 3.0 liter 333 horsepower supercharged engine. It has a noticeably smooth ride in my opinion and more importantly it was mentioned by my friend Mark who drives a new BMW 7 Series with every bell and whistle for a ‘smooth’ $125,000. The fact that he mentioned the acceleration and smooth ride speaks volumes.
Styling:
Audi just has that signature look of German engineering and design and is very distinctive and easy on the eyes. If it evokes passion it does so on several levels for me: Looks, Luxury and Performance.
Fit and Finish:
Exceptional.
Cost:
You get what you pay for as always and the Audi badge doesn’t disappoint and is a super competitor in every class. But, once again, I have to say you must also know you pay for the image this car delivers.
Conveniences and comfort:
As equipped it has all the expected features in class and pricing.
Consumer Recommendation:
At the top of any market the players are pared down to a precious few, and it is a very fine line as to good better or best, because they are all fabulous. Such a lineup is like the Miss Universe Pageant when they narrow the field down to the final few contestants – they are all winners to me but then I’m easy. These are all beautiful cars and although I have my favorites I’m glad I don’t have to choose just one. I prefer to drive them all. But I will share a passion of mine over the years which is Cadillac and suggest you won’t be disappointed in the test drive. It is special.
Recognized Competition:
Audi S4 $49,000, BMW 3-series $45,000, Cadillac CTS $62,000, Infiniti G Sedan $39,000, Lexus IS 350 $42,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG $60,000, Mercedes Benz E-Class $52,000, Volvo S60 $42,000.
Good News:
Elegant, fabulously fun to drive if you appreciate performance in ‘speed’. It also has a cloud-like soft ride.
Bad News:
This is a narrow group of contender because it is a pricey class. In Detroit you could buy two or three houses for the money.
Standard Equipment:
3.0 liter 333 hp Supercharged V6 engine, seven speed auto transmission, all-wheel drive, 18” wheels, 4-wheel ABS brake system, stability control, speed sensitive power steering, sunroof, heated power mirrors, S sport leather seating, heated 8-way power front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seats, climate control, audio with Satellite and CD player, iPod music interface, front side and curtain airbags, anti-theft vehicle alarm, LATCH Child system.
Gas Stats:
$3.67/ Gal avg. Oct. 23, 2013
www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.
18 City and 28 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $49,500.
