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The 2009 Audi S4 is a compact sports car, available only as a convertible, or as
they call it, a cabriolet. It's the sports version of the A4 and its competition
is Cadillac CTS, BMW M5, Lexus IS, Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution,
Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Infiniti G37. Not as attractive as some of the other S
model Audis, the S4 is still a nice looking car.
Though small, the S4 is a powerhouse. The engine is a 340 horsepower double
overhead cam 4.2 liter V8. There is a choice of transmissions, either a
six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, either with overdrive. Both have
Audi's famous Quattro all-wheel drive.
The manual transmission gets thirteen miles per gallon in the city and nineteen
miles per gallon on the highway. The automatic improves that a little at
fourteen miles per gallon city and twenty-one miles per gallon on the road. If
you're looking for great gas mileage, you probably shouldn't be looking for a
sports car.
There are no NHTSA safety ratings specific to the S4, however, the ratings for
the A4, which is the same basic body style, are five-star all around. Safety
features include antilock brakes, electronic brake assist, traction/stability
control, passenger sensing right front airbag, engine immobilizer, tire pressure
monitor, anti-theft alarm, headlight washers, electronic brakeforce
distribution, child seat anchors and a first aid kit.
An Audi wouldn't be an Audi without the features that make you go "wow!" The S4
is no exception. Some of those features are a trip computer; power, remote
convertible roof with glass rear window; rear window defogger; leather
upholstery; eight-way power front bucket seats with power lumbar support;
multi-level heated front seats; power, heated outside mirrors; power windows,
door locks and trunk release; tilt/telescopic leather wrapped steering wheel
with mounted controls; leather interior trim and leather wrapped gear shift
knob; interior charcoal air filter; premium sound system with ten speakers; six
CD changer with MP3 player and satellite radio; and hands free, pre-wired,
Bluetooth cell phone setup.
Compact or not, at a base price of $57,125 ($58,325 with automatic transmission)
the 2009 Audi S4 is probably not the car the average family will buy for their
high school or college kid, nor will it be the choice of starter car for most
young families. In fact, I'm not sure just what the market for a luxury compact
is, as those terms have always seemed a bit oxymoronic to me. But if, for
whatever reason, you're in the market for a luxury compact, don't overlook the
S4. As usual, even in a small car Audi delivers big. |
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