When car buyers look at the B9 generation luxury sport market, a common misconception keeps popping up around the powertrain configuration. Many enthusiasts ask if the 2019 Audi S4 uses a supercharger, confusing it with the older B8 generation. In reality, the 2019 model features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine known as the EA839, abandoning the Eaton roots of its predecessor for a hot-V twin-scroll turbo layout. This setup delivers 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque straight to all four wheels via an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.
That mechanical shift fundamentally changed how the car drives, prioritizing immediate low-end torque delivery and highway passing punch. You'll find that 0 to 60 mph arrives in roughly 4.4 to 4.6 seconds, making it a serious competitor against contemporaries like the BMW 340i and Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. Let's break down how this powertrain operates, what changed from past models, and whether it fits your daily driving needs.
Clearing Up the Supercharger Confusion
You won't find a supercharger under the hood of a stock 2019 Audi S4. Audi retired the supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 after the 2017 model year when wrapping up the B8.5 generation. For the B9 generation starting in 2018, engineers redesigned the engine completely, tucking a single twin-scroll turbocharger directly inside the V6 valley.
This layout reduces turbo lag significantly because exhaust gases have a shorter distance to travel from the combustion chambers to the turbine wheel. Peak torque arrives at a remarkably low 1,370 RPM and stays flat until 4,500 RPM. You don't have to wind out the engine to get immediate throttle response during daily commutes. It feels punchy off the line, mimicking the linear throttle pull of a larger displacement motor without the fuel penalty.
Powertrain and Real-World Performance Specifications
Raw numbers tell part of the story, but daily driving conditions reveal how the hardware performs under stress. The EA839 engine pairs exclusively with an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission rather than a dual-clutch setup. While some purists miss the snap-shifts of the older S-Tronic units, the ZF-sourced eight-speed provides smoother low-speed crawling in heavy traffic while still executing lightning-fast gear changes when you switch into Dynamic mode.
- Engine type: 3.0-liter turbocharged single-turbo V6 (EA839)
- Horsepower: 349 hp at 5,400–6,400 RPM
- Torque: 369 lb-ft at 1,370–4,500 RPM
- Drivetrain: Quattro permanent all-wheel drive with a self-locking center differential
- Curb weight: Approximately 3,858 pounds
Fuel economy numbers stay respectable for a performance sedan of this weight class. Official EPA ratings sit at 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, though spirited driving will easily pull those averages down. For official fuel economy ratings and vehicle safety data, you can consult the U.S. Department of Energy Fuel Economy Guide.
Interior Quality and Everyday Usability
Cabin design separates Audi from many of its direct competitors. Materials feel dense, switches click with mechanical precision, and the layout avoids excessive touchscreens that clutter modern dashboards. The flat-bottom steering wheel sits comfortably in your hands, and the diamond-stitched Nappa leather seats provide exceptional lateral support during sharp cornering without pinching your lower back on long road trips.
Cargo space measures 13 cubic feet in the trunk, which handles weekly grocery runs or golf bags with ease. If you need more utility, the European market received an Avant wagon variant, but North American buyers are limited to the traditional four-door sedan. Rear legroom is adequate for adults under six feet tall, though the central floor tunnel is quite tall due to the Quattro drivetrain layout underneath.
Common Mistakes When Buying a Used B9 S4
Shopping for a pre-owned 2019 model requires careful inspection because many previous owners modify these engines with aftermarket tunes, intakes, and pulleys. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Ignoring maintenance records: Oil change intervals shorter than the factory 10,000-mile recommendation are crucial for longevity, especially if the car saw track days.
- Overlooking rock chip damage: The low front bumper and gloss black grille elements take a beating on highways, so check for heavy pitting or cracked lower lips.
- Skipping a pre-purchase inspection: Always take the vehicle to an independent euro specialist who can check for hidden coolant leaks around the turbo housing and inspect the transmission mounts.
- Assuming modifications are covered: Buying an ECU-tuned car usually voids remaining powertrain warranties, leaving you exposed to costly repair bills if high-pressure fuel pumps fail.
For official brand background and vehicle configuration history, check out Audi USA to see how subsequent model years evolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2019 Audi S4 require premium fuel?
Yes, the high compression ratio and turbo boost pressure demand 91 octane fuel or higher to prevent engine knocking and maintain peak power output. Running lower octane fuel will cause the engine control unit to pull timing, reducing performance and efficiency.
Is the sport differential worth finding on a used model?
The optional sport rear differential actively distributes torque between the rear wheels to help rotate the car through corners. If you enjoy spirited driving on twisty backroads, it transforms the handling balance significantly and eliminates understeer.
How does the 2019 S4 compare to the S5 Sportback?
Mechanically, the 2019 Audi S4 and the S5 Sportback share the exact same platform, engine, transmission, and suspension tuning. The primary difference lies in the exterior styling, where the S5 features a sloping fastback roofline and a wider hatchback trunk opening at the expense of rear headroom.
What are common reliability concerns for the EA839 engine?
Generally, the 3.0T V6 proves robust, but early B9 models occasionally experienced issues with rocker arm wear on early production runs, minor coolant leaks near the water pump thermostat housing, and mounts that degrade over high mileage. Regular inspections help catch these items early.
