The 2014 Audi S4 Premium Plus Quattro sits in a sweet spot for enthusiast drivers. It pairs a supercharged V6 engine with all-wheel drive and a choice of a dual-clutch automatic or a manual transmission. This generation, known as the B8.5 facelift, fixed early reliability issues from the 2010 through 2012 model years while retaining the hydraulic steering feel that purists prefer over later electronic setups.
When looking at a used 2014 Audi S4, buyers usually want to know how it drives, what maintenance to expect, and whether the Premium Plus trim hits the right value balance. Unlike dedicated track cars, this sedan handles daily commuting with quiet comfort while delivering 333 horsepower on demand.
Understanding the B8.5 Generation Updates
Audi refreshed the B8 platform for the 2013 model year, carrying those improvements directly into the 2014 production run. These changes transformed the car from a promising sport sedan into a refined long-term performer.
The most notable mechanical update involved the steering system. Early B8 models used a purely hydraulic setup, but 2010-2012 cars faced complaints about weight and feedback. For the B8.5 update, Audi introduced an electromechanical steering system that saved fuel while retaining mechanical steering crispness that later cars lost.
Exterior styling also received sharp updates. The headlights gained distinctive angular LED daytime running lights, and the single-frame grille adopted angled upper corners. Inside, the MMI infotainment system received software upgrades, physical button reductions, and improved graphics.
Engine and Performance Specs
Under the hood lies a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, designated as the EA837. A Roots-type Eaton TVS supercharger sits inside the V-valley of the engine, providing instant throttle response without the turbo lag typical of modern turbocharged powerplants.
- Horsepower: 333 hp from 5,500 to 6,500 RPM
- Torque: 325 lb-ft from 2,900 to 5,300 RPM
- Transmission Options: 6-speed manual or 7-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic
- Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive with a rear-biased torque split
The broad torque curve means power is available instantly in almost any gear. When paired with the 7-speed S-tronic transmission and launch control, the S4 accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in roughly 4.9 seconds. Drivers who choose the 6-speed manual trade a tenth or two in acceleration times for direct mechanical engagement.
Premium Plus Trim Features and Options
The S4 came in two main trim levels for 2014: Premium Plus and Prestige. The Premium Plus trim served as the sweet spot for most buyers, offering high-end features without the inflated price tag of the top-tier Prestige model.
Standard equipment on the Premium Plus includes 18-inch 5-double-spoke wheels, xenon plus headlights, heated 12-way power front sport seats with four-way lumbar support, and leather/Alcantara upholstery. It also features tri-zone automatic climate control, a power sunroof, and a ten-speaker audio system with satellite radio.
Many original buyers added packages to their Premium Plus models. Look out for the Technology Package, which added Audi MMI Navigation plus, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and Bluetooth streaming. Another desirable option is the * deportiva* or Sport Differential, which actively distributes torque between the rear wheels to eliminate understeer during hard cornering.
Driving Dynamics and Daily Usability
The S4 bridges the gap between a comfortable family cruiser and an aggressive weekend car. Audi's Quattro system features a standard 40:60 front-to-rear torque split, giving the car a rear-wheel-drive feel when pushing through corners.
In daily driving, the ride is firm but compliant, especially when equipped with the optional Audi Drive Select system. Comfort mode softens the dampers for rough city streets, while Dynamic mode weights the steering, sharpens throttle response, and firms up the suspension.
Fuel economy sits at an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for the manual transmission, with the S-tronic achieving similar figures. Real-world fuel economy heavily depends on driving habits; using the supercharger frequently will drop averages into the mid-teens.
Common Maintenance and Reliability Concerns
While the 2014 model year is generally the most reliable of the B8.5 era, high-performance German cars require strict maintenance schedules. Knowing what fails helps you budget properly or inspect a potential purchase.
- Thermostat and Water Pump: The cooling system components are made of plastic and tend to fail around 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Watch for coolant loss or rising engine temperatures.
- Supercharger Intercoolers: Internal coolant leaks can occur within the supercharger brick intercoolers, leading to coolant consumption without visible external leaks.
- Mechatronic Unit (S-tronic): The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission requires fluid changes every 40,000 miles. Neglecting this leads to harsh shifting or mechatronic electrical failures.
- Motor Mounts: Hydraulic motor mounts eventually leak fluid and collapse, causing excessive engine vibration at idle.
For factory specifications and technical background on Audi's lineup, consult Audi USA. To research long-term ownership feedback, the AudiWorld Forums provide detailed owner logs and DIY repair guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2014 Audi S4 reliable compared to older years?
Yes. The 2014 model belongs to the B8.5 generation, which resolved early timing chain tensioner issues and oil consumption faults found in 2010-2012 models. However, standard wear items like water pumps and motor mounts still require attention.
Should I buy the manual or the S-tronic automatic?
The 6-speed manual appeals to purists and offers a more engaging driving experience, but it is rarer on the used market. The 7-speed S-tronic shifts faster than humanly possible and handles high horsepower well, provided its fluid was changed every 40,000 miles.
How does the Sport Differential change the driving experience?
The optional sport differential actively pushes torque to the outside rear wheel during hard cornering. It physically rotates the car through turns, neutralizing the nose-heavy understeer common in front-engine all-wheel-drive sedans.
What is real-world fuel economy like?
Expect around 16 to 18 mpg in heavy city driving and 25 to 27 mpg on highway road trips. Spirited driving on back roads will yield lower numbers due to constant supercharger boost.
