# Audi S4 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Audi S4 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-s4

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: Black Edition
- **Target mileage**: 30,000
–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £27,600

## Why this model

The Audi S4 is a fantastic choice if you're after a performance car that's also practical and comfortable for everyday use. It's got a powerful 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine that delivers serious grunt while still being reasonably economical for its class. Plus, with Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive, it handles brilliantly in all conditions, making it a safe and engaging drive. It's a premium car with a high-quality interior, so you'll feel special every time you get in.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data for February 2026, a 2020 Audi S4 Avant 3.0 TDI with around 30-50k miles typically sells for around £27,600. Prices can vary by a few thousand pounds depending on the exact trim, optional extras, and overall condition. Our target price reflects a well-maintained example of the popular S4 trim.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Black Edition' trim is often the sweet spot for the S4. It adds a sportier look with black styling elements, larger alloy wheels, and usually comes with a good level of standard equipment like upgraded sound systems and privacy glass. It gives you that extra visual appeal and desirable features without the significant price jump of the top-tier 'Vorsprung' trim, making it excellent value for money on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- AdBlue system faults (sensors, heaters)
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues if mainly used for short journeys
- MMI (infotainment) software glitches
- Suspension components wear (bushes, linkages) on higher mileage cars
- Water pump leaks (less common on TDI than older TFSI, but still possible)

## Running costs

Running an S4 isn't cheap, but it's manageable for a performance car. Fuel will be around 18-20p per mile for diesel, assuming current prices and mixed driving. Road tax (VED) for a 2020 model will be £580 per year (£190 standard rate + £390 luxury car supplement for 5 years from year 2, as it was over £40k new). Insurance will be higher than a standard A4 due to its performance, so expect to pay a premium. Servicing and parts can also be more expensive than a regular car, so factor that into your budget.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 342 PS (335 bhp)
- **Mpg**: 39.2 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Above Average
- **Safety Rating**: 5 Stars (2015 Euro NCAP for A4/S4)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| S4 | £48,000 | £27,600 | 19-inch alloy wheels; LED headlights; Sports suspension |
| Black Edition | £52,000 | £30,100 | All S4 features plus:; 20-inch '5-V-spoke' design alloy wheels in matt titanium look; Black styling pack (grille, window surrounds, door mirrors) |
| Vorsprung | £58,000 | £32,600 | All Black Edition features plus:; Matrix LED headlights with dynamic indicators; Head-up display |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £27,600 | 100% |
| 2027 | £24,840 | 90% |
| 2028 | £22,356 | 81% |
| 2029 | £20,090 | 73% |
| 2030 | £18,081 | 65.7% |

Buying a 2020 S4 means you're getting a car that's already taken the biggest hit in depreciation. It's typically 3-4 years old, so the initial steep drop in value from new has already occurred. From this point, the depreciation curve flattens out, meaning you'll lose less money year-on-year compared to buying a newer model, making it a smart financial move.

Total value lost since new: 34.3%.

## Alternatives to consider

- BMW M340d xDrive
- Mercedes-AMG C43
- Volkswagen Golf R Estate

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