Audi intends to discontinue all combustion engines in its new cars, and will only launch EVs starting in 2026. The spy photos from northern Europe show that the 2024 Audi S4 will receive an ICE final, complete with quad tips, to match the performance cars. Although it appears to have the final headlights and body, those taillights are only a preliminary setup.
2024 Audi S4 Avant Changes
The prototype does not have a diesel engine, as the European S4 and larger S6 use a TDI powertrain. You can choose between a sedan or wagon body style with the 3.0-liter V6 Diesel. It also comes with some horrendous fake exhaust tips. Audi also sells vehicles in the United States and other countries with a gasoline V6 engine.
Since the diesel-powered S4 already features a mild hybrid system, logic suggests that its replacement will include some form of electrification. We hope it doesn’t reduce to a four-cylinder engine, as was the case with the Mercedes-AMG C43. There were rumors that Audi would downsize the next-gen Audi A4 to the MQB platform with a transversely mounted engine in order to save $1 billion. But this won’t happen.
Exterior
The exterior styling is evolutionary with new flush door handles, but expect a revolution inside. Previous spy shots of A4 Avants have shown a completely revamped dashboard. Unfortunately, those who prefer cleanly integrated screens will be disappointed to learn that the next-generation model will include a pair of displays on the dashboard.
Strangely, the A4/S4 prototypes were only seen testing in the more practical wagon version. Audi has not yet spoken out about the sedan being dropped, but we should keep in mind that the next Volkswagen Passat will only be available as an estate model. Sedans are no longer in fashion, but we still find it hard to believe that there will be an A4 Sedan. It makes sense, however, since the Ingolstadt-based company also offers the A5 Sportback.
The wraps will be removed later in the year. Logic tells us that Audi will first unveil the regular A4. The RS4 and S4 will arrive in 2024. The latter will be powered by a plug-in hybrid engine. Officially, the RS models with four-cylinder engines are no longer available. The super wagon will still be powered by a V6.
Interior
The interior cabin was seen in spy photos that were taken earlier. It features a clustered digital display and an infotainment smart screen. The gear display is located on the console. The new Audi A4 has no manual gearbox.
The A4 will continue to use a turbocharged four-cylinder. However, the Audi A4 Avant may include a hybrid powertrain as top rivals for the Audi A4, BMW or Mercedes offer electrified options. It is expected that it will arrive at distributors in 2023. The next-generation range should include both a sedan and a lifted, off-road-flavored allroad version.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
According to EPA estimates, the S4 sedan will get 24 mpg in cities and on 30 highways. We can assess its real-world mpg once we have tested it on the 75-mph highway fuel economy route. This is part of our rigorous testing program. Visit the EPA website for more information on the S4’s fuel economy.
Infotainment & Connectivity
Audi S4 with a 10.1-inch center screen and plenty of infotainment options. The MMI system tested was quick to respond to commands and provided easy-to-use controls. It is within the driver’s reach, but some areas of the display need to be leaned forward in order to reach it. The S4 does not have a rotary controller in the center console. This made it easier to use the system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While the sports sedan comes with several standard driver-assist features, other options like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assistance are available only on the Prestige model. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites for more information on the S4’s crash test results. The following safety features are key:
- Automated emergency braking and standard forward-collision warning
- Blind-spot monitoring is available and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available adaptive control