# Audi RS4 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Audi RS4 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/audi-rs4

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: RS4 Avant Carbon Black
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £48,000

## Why this model

The Audi RS4 Avant is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a car that blends serious performance with everyday practicality. It's got that brilliant 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, quattro all-wheel drive for amazing grip, and enough space for the family and luggage. It's a proper wolf in sheep's clothing, offering thrilling acceleration and handling while still being comfortable enough for long journeys. Plus, Audi's build quality is generally excellent, so it feels robust and premium.

## What you should pay

Based on the current UK market (February 2026), a 2021 Audi RS4 Avant with around 30,000-50,000 miles typically sells for around £48,000. This is a strong price point as the initial steep depreciation has already occurred. Prices can vary by a few thousand depending on specific mileage, condition, and optional extras like the Carbon Black or Vorsprung packages. Be prepared to negotiate, but don't expect huge discounts on well-maintained examples.

## Which trim to buy

While the standard RS4 Avant is brilliant, the 'Carbon Black' trim offers a fantastic upgrade in aesthetics without pushing the price into the top-tier 'Vorsprung' territory. You get those darker styling elements, larger wheels, and often more aggressive interior touches that really make the car stand out. It feels more special and holds its value slightly better than the base model, making it the sweet spot for value and visual appeal.

## What to check before you buy

- Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) suspension leaks/failures (expensive to fix)
- Carbon build-up on intake valves (common on direct injection engines)
- Brake wear (especially on ceramic options, very costly to replace)
- MMI (infotainment) glitches or software issues

## Running costs

Running an RS4 isn't cheap, but you know that going in! Fuel costs will be significant; at around 25 mpg and petrol at £1.50/litre, you're looking at roughly £0.27 per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2021 model is £570 per year until it's five years old (so until 2026), then it drops to £180 per year. Insurance will be high, likely in the range of £1,000-£2,000+ annually depending on your age, location, and driving history. Servicing and consumables like tyres and brakes are also expensive due to the car's performance nature.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 444 hp
- **Mpg**: 25-29 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Good, but performance components can be costly to maintain.
- **Safety Rating**: 5 stars (Euro NCAP for A4 platform)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| RS4 Avant | £65,000 | £42,000 | 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 engine; Quattro all-wheel drive; RS Sport suspension |
| RS4 Avant Carbon Black | £77,000 | £48,000 | All standard RS4 Avant features; 20-inch '5-arm-peak' design alloy wheels in gloss black; Black styling pack (grille, window surrounds, roof rails) |
| RS4 Avant Vorsprung | £88,000 | £54,000 | All Carbon Black features; 20-inch '5-twin-spoke edge' design alloy wheels; RS Sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £48,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £42,000 | 87.5% |
| 2028 | £37,000 | 77.1% |
| 2029 | £33,000 | 68.8% |
| 2030 | £29,500 | 61.5% |

Buying a 2021 RS4 in 2026 means you're past the steepest part of its depreciation curve. The initial big drops in value have already happened, so while it will continue to depreciate, the rate should be more gradual. This makes it a good time to buy if you plan to keep the car for a few years, as you'll lose less money proportionally than if you bought it new or nearly new.

Total value lost since new: 38.5%.

## Alternatives to consider

- BMW M3 Touring
- Mercedes-AMG C63 Estate
- Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

---

Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.