Fuel Efficiency Up 18%, CO2 Emissions Down 15%

The most significant feature of this new model is likely the substantial downsizing of the engine. The previous S4 was equipped with a V8 4.2-liter FSI engine. The new model replaces this with a V6 3.0-liter supercharged direct-injection engine, specially tuned to deliver a maximum output of 333 ps (245 kW) at 5500-7000 rpm and a peak torque of 44.9 kg-m (440 N·m) at 2900-5300 rpm.

Paired with this engine is a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission for longitudinal engines. This latest transmission achieves more direct and efficient power transfer by minimizing drive loss. Compared to the previous model, it reportedly succeeds in improving fuel efficiency by 18% and reducing CO2 emissions by 15%, while also increasing torque by approximately 7%.

Audi's First "Rear Sport Differential" Adopted

Furthermore, the new S4/S4 Avant features Audi's first "Rear Sport Differential." This system varies the distribution of driving force between the left and right rear wheels according to road conditions during driving. When synchronized with the self-locking center differential of the "quattro" system, which distributes drive torque between the front and rear wheels, it enhances the vehicle's cornering agility while improving straight-line stability.

Additionally, the S4 comes standard with "Audi drive select," which allows the driver to select settings for damper characteristics, steering gear ratio, assist level, shift schedule, engine output, and the rear sport differential.

While the exterior differences from the A4 are immediately apparent with its dedicated aero parts and front grille, stepping inside reveals electric adjustment leather S sport seats, carbon decorative panels, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system, all contributing to a sporty yet luxurious atmosphere that enhances its premium feel.

The price is announced at 7.85 million yen for the S4 and 8.03 million yen for the S4 Avant.

BRAND HISTORY
Audi's emblem is the "Four Rings." As you may know, each ring represents one of the automotive manufacturers: Audi, DKW (Dampf-Kraft-Wagen), Horch, and Wanderer. All were based in Saxony and were leading brands in the German automotive industry at the beginning of the 20th century. However, the four companies, hit hard by the Great Depression after World War I, formed Auto Union in 1932 to survive. DKW focused on motorcycles and small cars, Wanderer on mid-size cars, Audi on premium mid-size cars, and Horch on luxury cars.

However, due to Germany's defeat in World War II, Saxony in East Germany fell under Soviet occupation, and Auto Union ceased to exist. Anticipating this, a new Auto Union was established in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, in West Germany. Unlike BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Auto Union faced a difficult start without existing factories, but gradually gained strength through the production of vehicles like the DKW delivery van.

In late 1964, Auto Union came under the umbrella of Volkswagen and soon introduced new models bearing the Audi name. In 1969, it merged with NSU (known for its development of the Wankel engine), based in Neckarsulm, becoming Audi NSU Auto Union. From 1985 onwards, it has continued as Audi to the present day. Technologies such as quattro, dynamic performance backed by motorsport activities, elegant design, and high-quality finishes are driving Audi's popularity.