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Audi S4

We're not mathematicians here at your favourite motoring weekly, but even we know that eight into four doesn't go. Or at least, that's what we thought - but obviously Audi's engineers were determined to prove us wrong.

By Craig Cheetham

May 2003

We're not mathematicians here at your favourite motoring weekly, but even we know that eight into four doesn't go. Or at least, that's what we thought - but obviously Audi's engineers were determined to prove us wrong.

And here's the evidence - the new S4. Despite the modest dimensions of a standard A4, the Ingolstadt firm has somehow managed to squeeze eight glorious cylinders under the bonnet of its popular compact executive car.

To carry out this remarkable feat, the design team took the 4.2-litre V8 from the S6 and swapped the timing belt for a slimline chain-drive camshaft. Then, by moving bulky parts such as the alternator, water pump and fuel pump round to the back of the motor, they reduced the length of the block to only 46.4cm - making it just small enough to squeeze under the A4's bonnet. The engine is surprisingly light, too, weighing in at a mere 195kg.

This means that, until a 4.2-litre A3 appears next year, the S4 is the smallest V8-powered saloon on the market. It's also one of the most exciting. With 340bhp on tap and peak torque of 410Nm at 3,500rpm, the S4 is devilishly fast. Hitting 62mph from a standstill takes little over five seconds, while the standard six-speed manual gearbox has a slick, positive action. But it doesn't behave like a sports car. In true Audi fashion, the S4 is swift, yet utterly civilised. The sober cabin, supple suspension and light yet precise steering give a polished, well rounded feel, while the beautifully trimmed cabin and supportive electric leather sports seats mean long journeys are as relaxing as they are in a less hardcore A4.

Even the looks are subtle. The 18-inch wheels and polished mirrors - both cast from alloy - twin mesh grilles, dual exhausts and tiny boot spoiler are all that distinguish the S4 from lesser models, yet the effect works brilliantly.

As with previous S-cars, the S4 was designed from the outset for those who like their power in a refined package. But stir this machine from its slumber and it will happily top up your adrenaline levels. The first thing to get excited about is the noise - the snarling soundtrack is at odds with the sober styling. And despite the mature power delivery, the S4 isn't left wanting in the smiles-per-mile stakes. The all-wheel-drive chassis is so sure-footed, it's practically impossible to unstick the tyres. And with such tenacious grip, the car corners at speeds which would leave an M3 driver with white knuckles.

The only downside to driving the S4 hard is the fuel consumption. Audi claims a combined figure of 21.2mpg for the newcomer, which isn't brilliant, but on our admittedly challenging test route the on-board computer struggled to top 12mpg. And at that rate, working out the fuel costs for a year's motoring is one sum that we certainly wouldn't like to do...

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FIRST OPINION

    From the raucous engine note to the sporty yet subtle exterior, the S4 is every inch a promising driver's car. And it doesn't disappoint. While it might not have the lightning reflexes of, say, BMW's M3, it's an altogether more mature package. But with heavy economy and a high insurance group, be prepared for steep running costs.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Audi S4 on sale now
    £37,280 S4 Avant also available
    Tiptronic semi-auto from August
     
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