Currently, I’m driving a diesel. And my previous car was diesel also. Petrol technology has come along way in the past 10 years, the difference in economy is now only worth it for those doing very high annual mileage. In my opinion, obviously!
I chopped in my 535d Estate (and gave the Mrs the big car) and got a Golf R Estate. If I drive it sensibly I get 40+ mpg, somewhat better than the BM. I only do about 12k in this car a year, so as you say, not really a huge difference in fuel, esp as I get better MPG in the Golf.
@@comparecars_org I chopped in my e61 535d for a Golf 7.5R. TBH the BM was a great cruiser, but the Golf is much more responsive, lighter and more nimble. And the fuel economy isn't that much different (but maybe that's my driving style).
After 10 years I went back to petrol. God it’s so much better to hear that engine! Diesel is great once you’re on the motorway and for torque but for real sound and performance my S5 sportback is amazing.
Up until last week I was driving an A4 s line tdi quattro which had a stage 1 remapped 240bhp. It was a great drive. Now I have a 23 plate 12k miles S4 tdi, and fair to say the difference is impressive. The low down torque and acceleration is astonishing and I personally love the warble from the exhaust. I also will be heading to Mevagissey in August and am looking forward to the drive, I've done it for the last seven years.
I have had the S4 TDI Avant for about a year now and I absolutely love it ! It is the first S car that i have owned so I can not compare to the previous petrol versions. I don't mind that the missing petrol scream - in fact i like the more quiet diesel tork that seems to drag asphalt up like "il tempo gigante". The fuel economy is quite ok on long rides - I can cover 1250 km in 12 hours with full loaded car and obtain about 14 km/ liter. During daily commute on country road and highway around 16.5 km / liter. I dont think that is bad for a 350 HP car.
just bought the S5 TDI, totally agree with your comments-blisteringly quick, super economical when driven normally. Idd describe it more like a GT car than a performance due to the lack of theatre.
Had my S4 just over a year now and I get between 44-49MPG on journeys if it included motorway driving. Around the country lanes I can get around 38MPG. When I fill the take if always reads around 520miles range. I should say I did have the gearbox tuned as the stock lag is shocking. Now it actually moves when you first press the pedal.
personally I find the torque of diesels satisfying in the shove department making up for the lack of aural drama, the low mpg of your S4 D is surprising, It's Another great review Peter, loads of information with classy presentation, as always 👍
You haven't driven a new petrol turbo then? My new GTI has way more shove at low revs than my last 2 litre deisel, it totally surprised me. I always though deisel to be the king of torque, not now. Deisels have such a small rev range too, mind you the dsg box will take care of the shifting. Deisels still win hand down of economy, GTI About 40 mpg, I could get 65mpg easily out of my last 2. 0 Tdi.
Another car without indicators!!! 70mph-nah bloody wonder ur mpg is shite- run it in and then see what miles ur getting,if you can afford a 60 grand car why worry about mpg
There actually is a explanation to the fake exhaust pipes. The head of design, Marc Lichte, met up with a Swedish motor journalist (925 Motor) and said that he was given the task to design the new S6 and S7. It was supposed to be a V6/V8 petrol so Lichte designed it to be a petrol car which explains the four exhaust pipes. However, the engineers of Audi decided that it was going to be a diesel for the European market instead of a petrol version. Lichte was already done with the design when this happened and the design of the car was in "design stop" which means that you can't change the design after that. The car was in the hands of the engineers by then who tried having 2 real exhausts and 2 fake. However, when testing the car in winter conditions, half of it got covered in snow and the other half didn't because of the heat from the exhaust. The engineers then had the thought of having 4 real exhaust but that wasn't psychically possible since the Adblue tank was in the way for the other 2 exhaust pipes. It was simply a communication error between the departments. Of course this carried over to the S4.
in a lot of European countries diesel fuel is just (or a lot) cheaper than petrol. But the lack of difference between your S4 and the new one surprises me too. Great real world review. Personally I prefer a diesel of the relaxing way it revs (in combination with a auto gearbox). This S4 is one of my favo new cars.....
Agree. I have had RS4 V6 and RS6 V8 both twin twin turbos when sound and low down torque was everything. This new S4 would now have been perfect as I drive now in France and Germany ie with 800Nm of torque, superb. BUT that fuel consumption, very poor when compared to the BMW 335d (I was getting 44-45 mpg from my 635d) What is the explanation Audi? 😑
Ahh i have the same, black edition and also achieve the same figures with ease unless sport is activated. King Lynne, very local!! Miss my s4 4.2 though, bloody emissions 🤪
It seems you get the same mpg as I get out of my Golf R hatch, I’m currently looking at buying an estate in the next few months and the S4 Avant petrol is now on the list thanks to you.
I had a a6 50 tdi in Germany this summer. I think I’d rather that than the diesel s4. It covered ground at incredible pace, but without the expectation of being a S car
The rev-counter is in the middle in yours because you have it set on a "Sport layout", while the facelifted one is set to "Classic layout" you can change that from your steering wheel.
Good video and comparison. Both the new and old S4 can swap between the single big rev counter and the 2 seperate rev and speed counters, its in the settings but can only be changed when the car is stationary. Also if you want a little extra noise from your B9 S4 unplug both the exhaust valves whilst the car is turned off, it will make the valves stay open all the time, even below 3k revs. Ive just recently changed my tyres, i stepped the size up to a 255, gives that extra little protection to your alloys and helps fill them arches a tad, they where also slightly cheaper aswell !
I did the valve thing but prefer it with them connected (less boomy) the best thing to do imo is get the Carista dongle and turn the soundaktor Volume to zero percent, improves the sound %100 to a v6 howl instead of the fake gurgle. Also put the 255 tires on, looks much better.
Really sorry to be the first to give you the bad news mate !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! but I do believe at 18.23 of your video, your virtual cockpit display was telling you that one of your tyres was under-inflated. 😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁
I knew someone would spot that 😂 I actually did a bit to camera but it didn't make the final edit. It was fine. Checked the tyre when the light came on and topped up 1 tyre with 2 PSI when I got home 👍
Another excellent review Pete, the mpg as you said is not totally convincing! I'm amazed your S4 didn't come with adaptive cruise control, even my Golf SE came with that, Audi sure know how to charge, I guess their fancy showrooms have to be paid for! We recently had a two week holiday in Cornwall, first time I've been back since growing up there as a kid, I'd forgotten how stunning it is, especially when the kids are at school, lol. Cheers.
Once again, I think you've nailed it and echoed my thoughts exactly. I'm a B9 S4 petrol owner and I love my car. I was gutted when I heard about the change to diesel and feared the worse. I'm not overly enamoured about the removal of the MMi wheel, but I *could* put up with it if the car met every other requirement of mine. Unfortunately, this doesn't, and I highly doubt I'd be buying this and it wouldn't surprise me if the numbers for the S4 tanked. Why? Well, first you have to ask yourself the question 'why would I buy a diesel', and the answer is never about 'fun, excitement, and feeling', but always about fuel efficiency and cost. As you've excellently pointed out, it's barely any more efficient than the petrol, yet costs more to run and buy. By comparison, the standard 3.0 TDi is £10k cheaper as a base price and is more fuel efficient. You can also spec it with everything in the S4 except the sports seats and the 'sport' dial mode (which, again, I agree - I prefer our mode). So really, you're paying a lot more money for a less efficient, more expensive version of the diesel car that's only slightly faster. I don't get it. My only hope for me is that they reverse this, rather stupid, decision in time for my new one in 12/24 months time. Although I doubt it. Failing that I'll have to move back to Merc or hope that Jaguar produce an XF-S estate. Thanks for the vid.
I watched this before at the turn of the year when considering purchasing a new S4Avant. I've now owned mine for 9 months, and figured I'd revisit this video. A lot of it holds true, and our man Ped delivers a thorough and informative run down. However, I'm baffled by the mpg and range figures. Upon a full tank refuel, my range will either be 555 or 560, and on a 100+ mile drive, using standard drive modes, the trip mpg will sit between 47-51mpg. It's incredibly powerful in the mid range which makes long range, varied drives, an absolute dream and the cockpit is a beautiful place to be... the drop the hammer transmission lag can be irritating, but overcome to an extent with a quick click to down on the gear stick to select sport mode, or even dropping down manually on the paddles to engage manual, which takes the thinking away from the gearbox. Haven't had a full service yet (gulp) but I've really enjoyed the car, and continue to be impressed by the speed, comfort and sheer versatility.
Just ordered one funnily enough, although I am going from a Discovery Sport to this so I get the feeling I won’t be disappointed with its performance:)
I love it, But then I drive and have driven diesel for 20 years almost. I won't have petrol at all. Just like the reliability and mpg of a diesel. My old Stilo estate 1.9jtd is a 53 plate and will do easy 50mpg on a run. Not bad for a 16 year old car is it.
Really disappointing MPG figure however fuelled by the fact that modern turbocharged petrol engines these days are just so good. Great insight into the car, and whilst it looks wonderful it’s simply not for me. Nice to see you enjoying the highlights of the M27 smart motorway upgrade work, it’s painful at times 😂
I think I'd definitely take the B9 S4 if I was choosing between the two. If you're buying new I honestly can't see why you'd take this S4 over a C43 or M340i - what where Audi thinking? Anyway, a great video regardless of the disappointing car!
@@stevenjr6582 I don't think many people are denying it's an impressive car, but that doesn't make it any less pointless. If you want decent performance with better fuel economy, get the standard 3.0 TDi. What can you buy from Audi now as a sporty-yet-sensible estate car that sounds nice and doesn't cost the earth to run? You've got no choice.
"Like" for the short 'road vid w/ music', I think you can try to put more of those in future videos. And "Like" for the road trips overall. I used to live & work in the UK and I miss it very much. Love the way you present your thoughts and car reviews. Love to kind of feel myself as a passenger and a friend of yours during your trips and/or walks. Keep going, awesome content, very nice channel out there! Subscribed after the very first video I have watched. Thanks for everything you do!
Just to say that's not spot lams/ fog lamps on the front, that's the radars. Love that you got to test drive this car to its fullest, Having an 2018 S5 Sportback I have been looking at the new one and now after knowing about the MPG I'll stick with what I have. The V6 Petrol engine is a heart in my mind for a car that is full of soul. I have all the toys you show with some others so don't think changing to a new one will give me more in that instance, its all about the driving. S car's are for drivers and if people don't get it. just get an A Amazing review.
Great, honest review with good explanation of why you reached your conclusion (as always). On fuel consumption, the engine will improve with mileage (looked to be 3.5k ish) and I noticed you had a tyre pressure warning which might not help. I have the v6 3.0l diesel in the A6 avant (272hp version) and have averaged 43mpg over 45k to date in mixed driving. I know its a lower tuned version but tis a heavier car. However it will never achieve the claimed 53mpg which some joker from Audi dreamed up 😂
I knew someone would spot that 😂 I actually did a bit to camera but it didn't make the final edit. It was fine. Checked the tyre when the light came on and topped up 1 tyre with 2 PSI when I got home 👍
My A6 avant 3.0 biturbo is 365 bhp and produces 750Nm of torque. I am disappointed with your report because I can easily get 44mpg on a run and my wife, who is lighter footed has recently achieved a little over 48mpg. My car is 2013 with 55,000 miles on the clock. I think strongly that it is the hybrid battery charging system that is zapping your achieved mpg. I am doubly disappointed because I get all this economy and therefore cleaner emissions but I live in Bristol. I would rather move than give up this cars superb engineering quality. 😢
Hi Pete fair play for your assessment I can completely see where you are coming from wanting the S car to have a more characterful edge,prior to my V90 CC I had a 272 sport A4 Allroad and previously a BiTDi A6 Allroad...now that,with air suspension and 320ps was the best of all worlds!!
I would have the diesel but I’m worried that the government will end up banning it from towns and cities rather soon, I’m keeping my eye out for an older petrol version
Don’t worry about being late to the party on the Audi. I just watched 5th gear and they had the Hyundai that you reviewed months ago! The joys and immediacy of a RUclips channel!
Hi Ped Very interesting review. Sorry you are not converted to the oil burner!😂😂 My last 8 daily drives have been Audi and last 3 have been diesel. My current SQ5 has 313 bhp fuel consumption 37/38 mpg, when Mrs P drives she achieves 43mpg, and when towing pulling 2000kg 27mpg. What I love is the relaxed driving with that torque in long distance runs, makes up for the lack of some features you mentioned. This car can eat the miles in a very relaxed mode.
I may have this wrong, but why have a sports bagged car for relaxed driving and economy? Wouldn't a standard 3.0tdi be just as satisfactory in torque, refinement and offer the same relaxed drive?
I agree with a lot of the comments- you’d think that a 2 litre petrol electric hybrid would fit the emissions brief, and fully electric would have the wow factor (and both would fit in the space between the A4 and the RS4). Diesel is a 90s solution for a 21st Century problem. Good video though. You should try the BMW M340i - could be the spiritual successor to your S4 (I found it excellent)
RealGX well if we assume the move away from a 3 litre turbo petrol in the previous S4 was emissions related, one solution is to use a similarly powerful Diesel engine that would result in less CO2 for the same power (approximately). My reference to it being a 90’s solution was to the significant effort made by politicians and subsequently manufacturers to encourage Diesel engines which started in the 90s. Tax was linked to CO2 (at least here in the UK) and dealers pushed diesel at every market segment (small hatchbacks, convertibles, everything). This was despite the higher (at the time) NOx and particulate emissions from diesel. Now there has been a move to encourage more zero emission cars (Tesla, plus all manufactures embracing electric) whilst at the same time diesel getting a bad press (dieselgate at VW Group). Ironically diesels are now cleaner than ever with the new Euro 6 (I think) regs, but it now has a bad perception. IMHO of course.
Good accurate review. I had the same car on 24 hour test and basically felt the same. A lot to like about the car, but the Diesel engine has very little character (not to mention huge turbo lag below 2k revs). The MPG is surprising as well. Not for me either.
Hi great episode I like these sort of videos, my 2019 Bmw m140i can get 45 mpg on a long run and its not a diesel, thank god, 6 cylinders 🙂 . Love your channel great to watch 👍
Another brilliant video... We can tell that you prefer your own S4. With regards to the touch screen, I think a lot are like this. I have an Apple Watch and you can use the screen to reply to text messages etc and when I write 2 it thinks I’m trying to write a “z” and also when I try and write “I” it thinks I want to write “1” lol. Really enjoyed the video. Some great camera angles for your boot section. Brilliant. Take care and drive safe.
Disappointing MPG and the given the fuel price difference? Hmmmm on that Cornwall run even in my Stinger, it would get low 30's and that's a low tech 3.3 V6 as you know. Those exhausts are terrible and my god how much is that thing?! £60k is bordering on a good 2nd hand RS6. With you on Mevagissey. Love, love that place. Didn't know you were getting a place there. The road there is great as is the A30 now.
I have the 2018 S5 Sportback; seriously considering jumping ship to Merc / BMW on the back of the new one being diesel. I almost feel like Audi themselves haven’t really made peace with it either, why else would feel the need to mask it with fake sound in the cabin… Failing that getting a good deal on the 2018/19 RS4 seen as the new one is being launched 2020 is another option. The diesel however… it’s a no from me. Great review/comparison by the way, nice to see one from someone who actually owns and uses the petrol version.
Pete , Rowes pasties made in Falmouth , I know its further down the road but worth it! So in economy mode cuts air con use blunts acceleration changes up earlier and coasts but if like my Tiguan use adaptive cruise and it doesn't coast. So on my similar trip from Essex to Penryn I would use ACC but disengage on the down hill . Brick like twin turbo 4motion Tig giving 50 to 55 mpg , however chipping has helped as well as 296 bhp. Nevertheless I rarely see less than 50 mpg. Similar dot matrix led headlights dancing around on the road using full beam while cutting out glare great tech. However efficiency and torque, it would be nice for a bit of rorty sound . All said great review , fast estates make so much sense. Thanks for the review.
It's kinda shocking really because originally this car started as a V8 petrol with a 4.2 i believe, Now they have put a diesel in it with even more shocking economy figures, It doesn't make sense Peter .. Someone would have to be out their mind to consider buying this as a diesel in my opinion . A great honest review Peter as always , That's what i love about Petrol Ped !!
No steam from left pipes on your car is the first thing I noticed. The other thing to consider with range after first refill, as with my car compared to its predecessor. The tank is smaller. As mentioned by other viewer, is that the tyre pressure warning on the dashboard? (19:03).
I knew someone would spot that 😂 I actually did a bit to camera but it didn't make the final edit. It was fine. Checked the tyre when the light came on and topped up 1 tyre with 2 PSI when I got home 👍
Jabber 1974 Yes steam! Water vapour condenses within the exhaust as it cools after driving at this time of year, which then vaporises as the car heats up again. It’s science!
I would add that i had many company cars for over 25 years. Moving up through the Ford Granadas of the 1970s with 4 cylinder 2 litre petrol engines until i reached the dizzy heights of the 4 cylinder petrol BMW 3 Series. All very nice cars. But then, company policy made diesels mandatory. Many of my colleagues went to the 2 litre diesel Audi A6 and got the SE Spec with the few little luxuries that had. I opted for the basic model A6 but with the (then) 2.5L V6 diesel engine. What a revelation that was! A lot of torque but only 150HP. Fast A to B driving was a joy and i was getting a consistent 40mpg which gave me a near enough 600 mile range. Very sad to see that car go. How often do we do a drag race getaway from the lights? Fun yes, but not the regular pleasure of surging past slower traffic in a high gear fed by a ton of torque! TORQUE - much under-rated! Good move by Audi.
You can get a good shove of torque from a petrol nowadays too mate. There are 2 and 3 litre petrols out there now with 350 lb-ft of torque with relatively decent mpg as well. The diesel only makes sense if you're a high miler in which case you'd look at lesser performance in appreciation of frugality. What Audi has done is give that shopper a choice of more performance to go with the economy. Yet again, why muddy the water when the essence of your sub-brand would be compromised without need?
@@jack1109 the equivalent displacement in petrol, for example the current gen 3.0l petrol Audi S5 is a quicker car which does over 45mpg on a run with a cheaper supply of fuel. If you have more of a need to pedestal frugality then an S model simply isn't (shouldn't be) what you need, simple as that really. Petrols are now much cleaner, cheaper to run and you get the privilege of true sports car characteristics without the faking. What's not to like?
Don't like the new lights on the facelift, looks cheaper and less classy. On the other hand the GP MINI has finally been revealed. Around 5.2 0-60mph!! Any update on when yours arrives? They reckon March
Hi Peter. Lovely car. I'm a petrol head but just about to buy a used diesel as a daily driver. Economy for one reason but the main reason is big diesel engine cars (3 litre +) have huge torque giving them massive mid range acceleration, so thought I would take the plunge. Cheers, Jon.
I have 2018 S4 Saloon. Regularly drive in efficiency mode using cruise at national speed limits. On a longer journey as yours I would never get less than 40 mpg...say 50 miles plus. Interestingly it shows 525 range when full. Never get that. I would want any diesel to be significantly better. Excellent review, I Drive for local dealership.
Nice review again thanks Pete,, but the main thing I took away after watching is how crap English weather is haha. It seems to me that the majority of test drives that you have cars for a week or more,, it Pi#§es down quite a lot of the time. Cheers. Wouldn’t say no to that car parked in my driveway though,, cheers.
You can switch the the look of the virtual cockpit just like u can in your old s4 .. you just have to push the far left button on your steering wheel, when ur at your consumption view .. after that u will get a menu.. at the bottom of the options u can change how it changes if you click “view” on your steering wheel.
Fuel consumption - Today on my commute home from work (90 Km mixed motorway and country road) i averaged over 50mpg keeping to the speed limit of 120 on motorway and 80 on the country road. SO it is possible to get much better figures than the once presented in this video.
I've the Audi A4 3.0tdi 272 ps and fuel economy is far better in warm weather than in the winter. 45-48mpg on a run in the cold and 55_58mpg in warm weather.
Thanks for this, great review! I currently have a S4 petrol, same as yours. I have been thinking about upgrading but have been put off by the change to diesel, and lack of so called emotion from the car. Also my car is driven in individual setting, auto for the engine and comfort for the gearbox and steering but dynamic for the exhaust note. But still manage an average of 37mpg on my commute, long term average of 33mpg. Maybe this time BMW have the answer with the 340 m sport...👍🏻
Interesting review. I do the same sort of trip quite often from Outside Petersfield to Helston to visit family and on a good run in my 2005 2.7TD Range Rover Sport, get around 28MPG. Good you pointed out the extra cost for diesel, it’s often forgotten about now. I think I’d stick with your Petrol S4, it’s more of an event to drive 👍
Being Sensible #2 - Touch Screens Personally I think they are a stupid trend... 1, On a bumpy road they are impossible to use 2, They get covered in finger prints 3, You make a good point (it had to happen sometime...) better for us lefties 4, If you have any neurological issues in your hands, hepatic feedback doesn't work (trust me on this)
Good review chap, I have an Audi a4 B9 3.0 diesel and it brilliant but an S4 should be petrol all day long, love the fast diesel but the new touch screen should have both features wheel and touch screen, the new voice control is better and works 90% of them. cheers have a good day.
Possibly to differentiate between the S and RS? Also, comparable premium brands like the 335d are diesel? 🤷♂️ I bet they sell more in the diesel though!
But let's not forget that modern diesel cars are becoming a burden once they've past a certain mileage and you need to replace the particle filter and all that expensive filtration system such is with Euro6 norms. They're ok as long the car can be replaced within a 4-5 year cycle but afterwards with high milleage the maintenance costs are way too high and not feasible. Plus, why would you pay extra when you could simply get the normal 3.0Tdi if the fuel economy is so important? Paying 70k for this S4 doesn't really show that you're in it for the fuel economy anyways...get the 2.0Tdi and be done with that. The S4 is about emotion for petrolheads, a diesel just can't offer that, no matter what torque it makes. I think the main reason they offer S4,S6,S7 TDI in EU is because they have a CO2 quota now imposed for each manufacturer so VAG decided to cut it by selling diesels in EU so they can sell petrol on other markets where diesel wouldn't be attractive, such as USA or Asian markets where they don't wanna hear of diesel especially after the dieselgate. I don't find it as a smart move since all you hear now in EU is about banning diesel, it's all such a contradiction, they keep on selling diesel while EU says it will ban it...
It's to bring down the emissions levels across the class as a whole, the EU mandates a level cumulatively - i.e. all models added up. It's why the new S4 is available as a petrol outside the EU.
If you live in london what's the point on a diesel as you have to pay a £12 charge each day to drive in certain areas and that is soon to be expanded to other areas.
I love the s4. I think they will make the next one a plug in hybrid. The a6 has a 3 litre phev v6 with same power as the s4 but at least 25 mile ev running. It’s Audi’s intentions to have 30 plug in cars by 2030 10 of which will be hybrids
Good review... I’m with you, the point of going diesel over the same model in petrol has to be economy and 3-5 mph saving just isn’t enough especially when you factor in the typically higher servicing costs of a diesel.
Unrealistic to expect mpg in the 50s for such a high performance car. High 30s to low 40s is probably what one might have expected. Experience tells me that an engine with huge torque like this one is a pleasure to drive in the real world. Good compromise between performance and economy.
Thanks for the honest review. I'm on my 9th Audi now and love the cars but I do wonder what direction they are going in with diesel. I often find myself having debates with people about downsizing form my RS7 / why do I need it but I can get over 400 miles from a tank at 31-32mpg at an average of 70mph and that S4 is only doing 37-39 mpg, the cost of changing and price of fuel just don't make it economically viable. Great for my man maths! Looks like I'll be holding on to the RS7 for a while until the RSQ8 losses the bulk of its depreciation with its first owner!
I had a 3.0 l V6 diesel A5 for a couple of weeks while my TT was being fixed. It was thirstier than my petrol TT. Wasn't impressed. Like the grey leather seats. But no "S" logo on them ?
Thanks for some great thoughts, Peter. I think I am right in that the exhausts on the car are fake - they are on the S7. The two real exhausts are hidden on the nearside. O well, I hope the next S3 is not a diesel. Best wishes as always....👍🏼
I work for Audi and have driven both vehicles. The new s4 is more powerful, think everyone's forgetting the 700nm torque and more economical. Plus by going diesel it's perfect for people that want to be different and want to have power but still do a few miles and therefore leaves the new RS vehicle to be more iconic and selective, BTW its quantum grey not nardo, nardo is exclusive RS colour
I have owned an A6 v6 tdi for 6 years bought at 4800 miles now at 53k. At 17k miles it loosened up and went from 39mpg to 45+ on the exact same route. This press car you have is still tight at 3660 miles, find a higher mileage one and see what the difference is. Coincidentally I'm swapping next week for the S4 tdi, can't wait 👍
Another excellent review - you are a realist and I like your reviews. I looked seriously at this car - because my A6 biturbo is a bit too big for my use. A phenomenal car (chipped) so I'll miss it. But when this was announced still with a screen in your face and false exhausts tips I just cant deal with that. (The RS4 is just too much money.) Also the turbo lag has not been resolved and I'm guessing that my A6 goes better. So the bottom line for my replacement is....a BMW M340i touring. Goes better, just as economical and sounds and drives superbly. Arrives January. So goodby Audi and hello BMW.
I have a A4 b9 3.0 TDI 272 quattro that’s been remapped to 323 bhp and 745nm torque. I do 600 miles a week and average around 52mpg each tank, that is 90% motorway miles though. Poor show from that diesel S4. Although I would have thought as it gets more miles on it it will get better mpg.
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Currently, I’m driving a diesel. And my previous car was diesel also. Petrol technology has come along way in the past 10 years, the difference in economy is now only worth it for those doing very high annual mileage. In my opinion, obviously!
I agree 👍
I chopped in my 535d Estate (and gave the Mrs the big car) and got a Golf R Estate. If I drive it sensibly I get 40+ mpg, somewhat better than the BM. I only do about 12k in this car a year, so as you say, not really a huge difference in fuel, esp as I get better MPG in the Golf.
@@comparecars_org I chopped in my e61 535d for a Golf 7.5R. TBH the BM was a great cruiser, but the Golf is much more responsive, lighter and more nimble. And the fuel economy isn't that much different (but maybe that's my driving style).
After 10 years I went back to petrol. God it’s so much better to hear that engine! Diesel is great once you’re on the motorway and for torque but for real sound and performance my S5 sportback is amazing.
Up until last week I was driving an A4 s line tdi quattro which had a stage 1 remapped 240bhp. It was a great drive. Now I have a 23 plate 12k miles S4 tdi, and fair to say the difference is impressive. The low down torque and acceleration is astonishing and I personally love the warble from the exhaust. I also will be heading to Mevagissey in August and am looking forward to the drive, I've done it for the last seven years.
I have had the S4 TDI Avant for about a year now and I absolutely love it ! It is the first S car that i have owned so I can not compare to the previous petrol versions. I don't mind that the missing petrol scream - in fact i like the more quiet diesel tork that seems to drag asphalt up like "il tempo gigante". The fuel economy is quite ok on long rides - I can cover 1250 km in 12 hours with full loaded car and obtain about 14 km/ liter. During daily commute on country road and highway around 16.5 km / liter. I dont think that is bad for a 350 HP car.
just bought the S5 TDI, totally agree with your comments-blisteringly quick, super economical when driven normally. Idd describe it more like a GT car than a performance due to the lack of theatre.
Yep 👍
Those aren’t fog lamps, they are radar for Adaptive Cruise
that's what I thought too
Definitely! 👍🏻
Yep! 🙈
Oops 😂
They sure are. I have them on my A4 B9 😉
Had my S4 just over a year now and I get between 44-49MPG on journeys if it included motorway driving. Around the country lanes I can get around 38MPG. When I fill the take if always reads around 520miles range.
I should say I did have the gearbox tuned as the stock lag is shocking. Now it actually moves when you first press the pedal.
personally I find the torque of diesels satisfying in the shove department making up for the lack of aural drama, the low mpg of your S4 D is surprising, It's Another great review Peter, loads of information with classy presentation, as always 👍
Thank you my friend 🙏
You haven't driven a new petrol turbo then? My new GTI has way more shove at low revs than my last 2 litre deisel, it totally surprised me. I always though deisel to be the king of torque, not now. Deisels have such a small rev range too, mind you the dsg box will take care of the shifting. Deisels still win hand down of economy, GTI About 40 mpg, I could get 65mpg easily out of my last 2. 0 Tdi.
The low mpg is due to the short learning curve of that car. My new s4 shows 661 miles when fully charged with diesel.
Went to London recently and on starting the return journey mpg showed 52mpg on my S4 dash, I regularly get over 40 on shorter journeys
The engine is Not run in yet. its only done around 4K, the mpg will improve after 10K, then improve further as the miles build up
Another car without indicators!!! 70mph-nah bloody wonder ur mpg is shite- run it in and then see what miles ur getting,if you can afford a 60 grand car why worry about mpg
Exactly. So why but a diesel.
having owned B8 and now B9 gives a great perspective to the review
There actually is a explanation to the fake exhaust pipes. The head of design, Marc Lichte, met up with a Swedish motor journalist (925 Motor) and said that he was given the task to design the new S6 and S7. It was supposed to be a V6/V8 petrol so Lichte designed it to be a petrol car which explains the four exhaust pipes. However, the engineers of Audi decided that it was going to be a diesel for the European market instead of a petrol version. Lichte was already done with the design when this happened and the design of the car was in "design stop" which means that you can't change the design after that.
The car was in the hands of the engineers by then who tried having 2 real exhausts and 2 fake. However, when testing the car in winter conditions, half of it got covered in snow and the other half didn't because of the heat from the exhaust. The engineers then had the thought of having 4 real exhaust but that wasn't psychically possible since the Adblue tank was in the way for the other 2 exhaust pipes.
It was simply a communication error between the departments.
Of course this carried over to the S4.
Thanks for this. Very interesting 👍
Good review. No unnecessary technical jargon that most people won’t understand. Keep up the good work PP.
Will do. Thanks 👍
in a lot of European countries diesel fuel is just (or a lot) cheaper than petrol. But the lack of difference between your S4 and the new one surprises me too. Great real world review. Personally I prefer a diesel of the relaxing way it revs (in combination with a auto gearbox). This S4 is one of my favo new cars.....
Agree. I have had RS4 V6 and RS6 V8 both twin twin turbos when sound and low down torque was everything. This new S4 would now have been perfect as I drive now in France and Germany ie with 800Nm of torque, superb. BUT that fuel consumption, very poor when compared to the BMW 335d (I was getting 44-45 mpg from my 635d) What is the explanation Audi? 😑
Brilliant review...Really enjoyed it....Keep up the great work....
Thanks 👍
I just bough an A6 3.0TDI. On the drive from Kings Lynne to Swindon, I averaged 47.5 mpg. Hmm. not bad. Oh they are the radar pods, not fogs :)
Ahh i have the same, black edition and also achieve the same figures with ease unless sport is activated. King Lynne, very local!! Miss my s4 4.2 though, bloody emissions 🤪
It seems you get the same mpg as I get out of my Golf R hatch, I’m currently looking at buying an estate in the next few months and the S4 Avant petrol is now on the list thanks to you.
Good choice!
@@PetrolPed do you still have it? I watched another clip you did on the S4 where you said you might get shot and keep the JCW Clubman.
I had a a6 50 tdi in Germany this summer. I think I’d rather that than the diesel s4. It covered ground at incredible pace, but without the expectation of being a S car
You’re probably right 👍
The rev-counter is in the middle in yours because you have it set on a "Sport layout", while the facelifted one is set to "Classic layout" you can change that from your steering wheel.
Thanks for the heads up 👍
Good video and comparison. Both the new and old S4 can swap between the single big rev counter and the 2 seperate rev and speed counters, its in the settings but can only be changed when the car is stationary.
Also if you want a little extra noise from your B9 S4 unplug both the exhaust valves whilst the car is turned off, it will make the valves stay open all the time, even below 3k revs.
Ive just recently changed my tyres, i stepped the size up to a 255, gives that extra little protection to your alloys and helps fill them arches a tad, they where also slightly cheaper aswell !
I'll take a look at the setting on the MMI...thanks 👍
I did the valve thing but prefer it with them connected (less boomy) the best thing to do imo is get the Carista dongle and turn the soundaktor Volume to zero percent, improves the sound %100 to a v6 howl instead of the fake gurgle. Also put the 255 tires on, looks much better.
Really sorry to be the first to give you the bad news mate !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! but I do believe at 18.23 of your video, your virtual cockpit display was telling you that one of your tyres was under-inflated. 😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁
I knew someone would spot that 😂 I actually did a bit to camera but it didn't make the final edit. It was fine. Checked the tyre when the light came on and topped up 1 tyre with 2 PSI when I got home 👍
interestingly on my maiden voyage from Perth to Yorkshire (280 miles)I got 51.5 MPG. Drove home from work (12 miles) and achieved 52.2!
Wow 😮
Another excellent review Pete, the mpg as you said is not totally convincing! I'm amazed your S4 didn't come with adaptive cruise control, even my Golf SE came with that, Audi sure know how to charge, I guess their fancy showrooms have to be paid for! We recently had a two week holiday in Cornwall, first time I've been back since growing up there as a kid, I'd forgotten how stunning it is, especially when the kids are at school, lol. Cheers.
I bought an ex demo and it didn't have it 😪 Cornwall is lovely and quiet this time of year 😂
Nah the cars pay for showroom with Audi not the other way around. Not to mention they built your golf too.
Great work as always Pete. Really surprised that Audi have gone down the diesel route with the S4. Didn’t see that coming.
Cheers Simon 👍
Once again, I think you've nailed it and echoed my thoughts exactly. I'm a B9 S4 petrol owner and I love my car. I was gutted when I heard about the change to diesel and feared the worse. I'm not overly enamoured about the removal of the MMi wheel, but I *could* put up with it if the car met every other requirement of mine.
Unfortunately, this doesn't, and I highly doubt I'd be buying this and it wouldn't surprise me if the numbers for the S4 tanked. Why? Well, first you have to ask yourself the question 'why would I buy a diesel', and the answer is never about 'fun, excitement, and feeling', but always about fuel efficiency and cost. As you've excellently pointed out, it's barely any more efficient than the petrol, yet costs more to run and buy. By comparison, the standard 3.0 TDi is £10k cheaper as a base price and is more fuel efficient. You can also spec it with everything in the S4 except the sports seats and the 'sport' dial mode (which, again, I agree - I prefer our mode). So really, you're paying a lot more money for a less efficient, more expensive version of the diesel car that's only slightly faster. I don't get it.
My only hope for me is that they reverse this, rather stupid, decision in time for my new one in 12/24 months time. Although I doubt it.
Failing that I'll have to move back to Merc or hope that Jaguar produce an XF-S estate.
Thanks for the vid.
Thanks for this Richard 👍
I watched this before at the turn of the year when considering purchasing a new S4Avant. I've now owned mine for 9 months, and figured I'd revisit this video. A lot of it holds true, and our man Ped delivers a thorough and informative run down. However, I'm baffled by the mpg and range figures.
Upon a full tank refuel, my range will either be 555 or 560, and on a 100+ mile drive, using standard drive modes, the trip mpg will sit between 47-51mpg. It's incredibly powerful in the mid range which makes long range, varied drives, an absolute dream and the cockpit is a beautiful place to be... the drop the hammer transmission lag can be irritating, but overcome to an extent with a quick click to down on the gear stick to select sport mode, or even dropping down manually on the paddles to engage manual, which takes the thinking away from the gearbox.
Haven't had a full service yet (gulp) but I've really enjoyed the car, and continue to be impressed by the speed, comfort and sheer versatility.
This is great to hear 👍
Just ordered one funnily enough, although I am going from a Discovery Sport to this so I get the feeling I won’t be disappointed with its performance:)
Perfect transition. You’ll love it 👍
@@PetrolPed anything would be better than a discovery.................no real comparision ..................................
I have thoroughly enjoyed this presentation ,my first
Hopefully not your last 😜👍
With MPG comparisons on Petrol v diesel, the added cost of DEF fluid is never mentioned in the mpg ratings.
I love it, But then I drive and have driven diesel for 20 years almost. I won't have petrol at all. Just like the reliability and mpg of a diesel. My old Stilo estate 1.9jtd is a 53 plate and will do easy 50mpg on a run. Not bad for a 16 year old car is it.
Impressive 👍
Petrol Peds drives to Cornwall are a bit like Top gears old races across Europe with car versus public transport lol
👏👏👏
Really disappointing MPG figure however fuelled by the fact that modern turbocharged petrol engines these days are just so good. Great insight into the car, and whilst it looks wonderful it’s simply not for me. Nice to see you enjoying the highlights of the M27 smart motorway upgrade work, it’s painful at times 😂
Sure is painful 😡
I think I'd definitely take the B9 S4 if I was choosing between the two. If you're buying new I honestly can't see why you'd take this S4 over a C43 or M340i - what where Audi thinking? Anyway, a great video regardless of the disappointing car!
Thanks Harry 👍
@@True-VFX its not faster. It's slower than the one it replaces.
What no one realises is the efficiency , making a hybrid diesel with that kind of hp and mpg is unmatched .
@@stevenjr6582 I don't think many people are denying it's an impressive car, but that doesn't make it any less pointless. If you want decent performance with better fuel economy, get the standard 3.0 TDi. What can you buy from Audi now as a sporty-yet-sensible estate car that sounds nice and doesn't cost the earth to run? You've got no choice.
@@richardhill5869 the Audi s4 lol 🤷🏻♂️
"Like" for the short 'road vid w/ music', I think you can try to put more of those in future videos. And "Like" for the road trips overall. I used to live & work in the UK and I miss it very much. Love the way you present your thoughts and car reviews. Love to kind of feel myself as a passenger and a friend of yours during your trips and/or walks. Keep going, awesome content, very nice channel out there! Subscribed after the very first video I have watched. Thanks for everything you do!
I bought my 2018 S4 on the back of reading the new one would be a diesel!
Doesn't surprise me 😜
Ive bought the 2018 s4 b9 new. And i'm happy about it. The facelift diesel is a downgrade..
Just to say that's not spot lams/ fog lamps on the front, that's the radars.
Love that you got to test drive this car to its fullest, Having an 2018 S5 Sportback I have been looking at the new one and now after knowing about the MPG I'll stick with what I have. The V6 Petrol engine is a heart in my mind for a car that is full of soul.
I have all the toys you show with some others so don't think changing to a new one will give me more in that instance, its all about the driving. S car's are for drivers and if people don't get it. just get an A
Amazing review.
Cheers Chris. Loved the two S4s 👍
Great, honest review with good explanation of why you reached your conclusion (as always). On fuel consumption, the engine will improve with mileage (looked to be 3.5k ish) and I noticed you had a tyre pressure warning which might not help. I have the v6 3.0l diesel in the A6 avant (272hp version) and have averaged 43mpg over 45k to date in mixed driving. I know its a lower tuned version but tis a heavier car. However it will never achieve the claimed 53mpg which some joker from Audi dreamed up 😂
I knew someone would spot that 😂 I actually did a bit to camera but it didn't make the final edit. It was fine. Checked the tyre when the light came on and topped up 1 tyre with 2 PSI when I got home 👍
My A6 avant 3.0 biturbo is 365 bhp and produces 750Nm of torque. I am disappointed with your report because I can easily get 44mpg on a run and my wife, who is lighter footed has recently achieved a little over 48mpg. My car is 2013 with 55,000 miles on the clock. I think strongly that it is the hybrid battery charging system that is zapping your achieved mpg. I am doubly disappointed because I get all this economy and therefore cleaner emissions but I live in Bristol. I would rather move than give up this cars superb engineering quality. 😢
Great review. Seen this car doing the rounds online and I think others haven’t quite got it but you nailed it on the head.
Thank you 🙏
maybe if the tyre pressures were ok you might get 40mpg+ as noticed the dash showing tyre pressure light on.
Had one tyre drop a couple of PSI. Sorted once it got home 👍
Audi definitely need to keep the jog wheel as well as touch screen
I agree 👍
@ 2:40 them aint spot lamps/fog lamp them are radars used for rader guded cruise control and so forth and other safty features such as braking etc
Hi Pete fair play for your assessment I can completely see where you are coming from wanting the S car to have a more characterful edge,prior to my V90 CC I had a 272 sport A4 Allroad and previously a BiTDi A6 Allroad...now that,with air suspension and 320ps was the best of all worlds!!
That BiTDi was a mega bit of kit 👌
Nice video.... A remapped 3.0 TDI quattro b9 would be almost at b9 S4 diesel performance..... Certainly underwhelming
I would have the diesel but I’m worried that the government will end up banning it from towns and cities rather soon, I’m keeping my eye out for an older petrol version
Don’t worry about being late to the party on the Audi. I just watched 5th gear and they had the Hyundai that you reviewed months ago! The joys and immediacy of a RUclips channel!
Exactly 😂
Hi Ped
Very interesting review. Sorry you are not converted to the oil burner!😂😂
My last 8 daily drives have been Audi and last 3 have been diesel. My current SQ5 has 313 bhp fuel consumption 37/38 mpg, when Mrs P drives she achieves 43mpg, and when towing pulling 2000kg 27mpg.
What I love is the relaxed driving with that torque in long distance runs, makes up for the lack of some features you mentioned. This car can eat the miles in a very relaxed mode.
I love the SQ5 👌
I may have this wrong, but why have a sports bagged car for relaxed driving and economy? Wouldn't a standard 3.0tdi be just as satisfactory in torque, refinement and offer the same relaxed drive?
You can actually change the appearance of the virtual cockpit in the settings to a central rev counter with the new hockey stick layout
Thanks for letting me know 👍
I bloody love that petrol S4!
Me too 😍
I agree with a lot of the comments- you’d think that a 2 litre petrol electric hybrid would fit the emissions brief, and fully electric would have the wow factor (and both would fit in the space between the A4 and the RS4). Diesel is a 90s solution for a 21st Century problem. Good video though. You should try the BMW M340i - could be the spiritual successor to your S4 (I found it excellent)
Cheers Ross. I'll put it on my list 👍
Why is diesel a 90's solution? Explain yourself.
RealGX well if we assume the move away from a 3 litre turbo petrol in the previous S4 was emissions related, one solution is to use a similarly powerful Diesel engine that would result in less CO2 for the same power (approximately). My reference to it being a 90’s solution was to the significant effort made by politicians and subsequently manufacturers to encourage Diesel engines which started in the 90s. Tax was linked to CO2 (at least here in the UK) and dealers pushed diesel at every market segment (small hatchbacks, convertibles, everything). This was despite the higher (at the time) NOx and particulate emissions from diesel. Now there has been a move to encourage more zero emission cars (Tesla, plus all manufactures embracing electric) whilst at the same time diesel getting a bad press (dieselgate at VW Group). Ironically diesels are now cleaner than ever with the new Euro 6 (I think) regs, but it now has a bad perception. IMHO of course.
Go buy a Prius.
Great video. Answered a lot of Q's on MPG for me. Thanks
Glad it helped 👍
Good accurate review. I had the same car on 24 hour test and basically felt the same. A lot to like about the car, but the Diesel engine has very little character (not to mention huge turbo lag below 2k revs). The MPG is surprising as well. Not for me either.
Glad I'm on point 👍
Hi great episode I like these sort of videos, my 2019 Bmw m140i can get 45 mpg on a long run and its not a diesel, thank god, 6 cylinders 🙂 . Love your channel great to watch 👍
Thanks Craig. Glad you enjoyed it 👍
Thanks for the candid review 👍👍
Glad you enjoyed it 👍
Another brilliant video... We can tell that you prefer your own S4. With regards to the touch screen, I think a lot are like this. I have an Apple Watch and you can use the screen to reply to text messages etc and when I write 2 it thinks I’m trying to write a “z” and also when I try and write “I” it thinks I want to write “1” lol. Really enjoyed the video. Some great camera angles for your boot section. Brilliant. Take care and drive safe.
Learning from my other project 😜
I love my 2018 s4
What do think of Audi's A6 3.0 BiTDI Avant?
Awesome if you can get your hands on one 👍
Disappointing MPG and the given the fuel price difference? Hmmmm on that Cornwall run even in my Stinger, it would get low 30's and that's a low tech 3.3 V6 as you know.
Those exhausts are terrible and my god how much is that thing?! £60k is bordering on a good 2nd hand RS6.
With you on Mevagissey. Love, love that place. Didn't know you were getting a place there. The road there is great as is the A30 now.
Owned it for the past year but finally making it our own 👍
I currently have an Audi A4 SE TDi but I’m thinking of swapping it for a Peugeot 508 GT later this year. Am I mad swapping an Audi for a Peugeot? 🙈
The 508 is a mega car and for me one of the best looking cars on the road 👍
ruclips.net/video/jk1WXNBKHTg/видео.html
I have the 2018 S5 Sportback; seriously considering jumping ship to Merc / BMW on the back of the new one being diesel. I almost feel like Audi themselves haven’t really made peace with it either, why else would feel the need to mask it with fake sound in the cabin… Failing that getting a good deal on the 2018/19 RS4 seen as the new one is being launched 2020 is another option. The diesel however… it’s a no from me.
Great review/comparison by the way, nice to see one from someone who actually owns and uses the petrol version.
Thanks Will 👍
Pete , Rowes pasties made in Falmouth , I know its further down the road but worth it! So in economy mode cuts air con use blunts acceleration changes up earlier and coasts but if like my Tiguan use adaptive cruise and it doesn't coast. So on my similar trip from Essex to Penryn I would use ACC but disengage on the down hill . Brick like twin turbo 4motion Tig giving 50 to 55 mpg , however chipping has helped as well as 296 bhp. Nevertheless I rarely see less than 50 mpg. Similar dot matrix led headlights dancing around on the road using full beam while cutting out glare great tech. However efficiency and torque, it would be nice for a bit of rorty sound . All said great review , fast estates make so much sense. Thanks for the review.
My pleasure Paul. Glad you enjoyed it 👍
Great video mate! Enjoyed it a lot
Cheers Brett 👍
It's kinda shocking really because originally this car started as a V8 petrol with a 4.2 i believe, Now they have put a diesel in it with even more shocking economy figures, It doesn't make sense Peter .. Someone would have to be out their mind to consider buying this as a diesel in my opinion .
A great honest review Peter as always , That's what i love about Petrol Ped !!
Thanks Lee 🙏
No steam from left pipes on your car is the first thing I noticed. The other thing to consider with range after first refill, as with my car compared to its predecessor. The tank is smaller. As mentioned by other viewer, is that the tyre pressure warning on the dashboard? (19:03).
Andrew Gibbs steam? It’s not a kettle under the bonnet.
I knew someone would spot that 😂 I actually did a bit to camera but it didn't make the final edit. It was fine. Checked the tyre when the light came on and topped up 1 tyre with 2 PSI when I got home 👍
Jabber 1974
Yes steam! Water vapour condenses within the exhaust as it cools after driving at this time of year, which then vaporises as the car heats up again. It’s science!
Very nice place to be.. like all Audi's.. but a bit boring ... easy to drive and they shift along.. great vid guys xx
Thanks Leon 👍
I would add that i had many company cars for over 25 years. Moving up through the Ford Granadas of the 1970s with 4 cylinder 2 litre petrol engines until i reached the dizzy heights of the 4 cylinder petrol BMW 3 Series. All very nice cars. But then, company policy made diesels mandatory. Many of my colleagues went to the 2 litre diesel Audi A6 and got the SE Spec with the few little luxuries that had. I opted for the basic model A6 but with the (then) 2.5L V6 diesel engine. What a revelation that was! A lot of torque but only 150HP. Fast A to B driving was a joy and i was getting a consistent 40mpg which gave me a near enough 600 mile range. Very sad to see that car go. How often do we do a drag race getaway from the lights? Fun yes, but not the regular pleasure of surging past slower traffic in a high gear fed by a ton of torque! TORQUE - much under-rated! Good move by Audi.
You can get a good shove of torque from a petrol nowadays too mate. There are 2 and 3 litre petrols out there now with 350 lb-ft of torque with relatively decent mpg as well. The diesel only makes sense if you're a high miler in which case you'd look at lesser performance in appreciation of frugality. What Audi has done is give that shopper a choice of more performance to go with the economy. Yet again, why muddy the water when the essence of your sub-brand would be compromised without need?
Not 516 lbft though and not as good fuel economy.
@@jack1109 the equivalent displacement in petrol, for example the current gen 3.0l petrol Audi S5 is a quicker car which does over 45mpg on a run with a cheaper supply of fuel. If you have more of a need to pedestal frugality then an S model simply isn't (shouldn't be) what you need, simple as that really. Petrols are now much cleaner, cheaper to run and you get the privilege of true sports car characteristics without the faking. What's not to like?
How does the s4 diesel compare to the f31 335d in a straight line?
Not sure. Sounds like I need to arrange a drag race 😜
@@PetrolPed music to my ears!
Video at @02:36 - those are fog lights ? I thought it was radar sensors ???
Don't like the new lights on the facelift, looks cheaper and less classy. On the other hand the GP MINI has finally been revealed. Around 5.2 0-60mph!! Any update on when yours arrives? They reckon March
Spoke to my dealer today. I think March too 👍
@@PetrolPed Cool. Can you have it without the big wing or is it compulsory for downforce?
Hi Peter. Lovely car. I'm a petrol head but just about to buy a used diesel as a daily driver. Economy for one reason but the main reason is big diesel engine cars (3 litre +) have huge torque giving them massive mid range acceleration, so thought I would take the plunge. Cheers, Jon.
Go for it 👍
I have 2018 S4 Saloon. Regularly drive in efficiency mode using cruise at national speed limits. On a longer journey as yours I would never get less than 40 mpg...say 50 miles plus. Interestingly it shows 525 range when full. Never get that. I would want any diesel to be significantly better. Excellent review, I Drive for local dealership.
Thanks Peter. Glad you enjoyed it 👍
Quality and honest review. Brilliant. Thank you
My pleasure 👍
Nice review again thanks Pete,, but the main thing I took away after watching is how crap English weather is haha. It seems to me that the majority of test drives that you have cars for a week or more,, it Pi#§es down quite a lot of the time. Cheers.
Wouldn’t say no to that car parked in my driveway though,, cheers.
The weather had been pretty pants recently 😂
Enjoyed this review. Think i will be sticking with my petrol S4 also.
👍
You can switch the the look of the virtual cockpit just like u can in your old s4 .. you just have to push the far left button on your steering wheel, when ur at your consumption view .. after that u will get a menu.. at the bottom of the options u can change how it changes if you click “view” on your steering wheel.
Cheers 👍
You can change the view in the virtual cockpit so that it looks like your old centred speedometer. Change can be done in the Menu of the mmi
Cool. Will take a look 👍
Fuel consumption - Today on my commute home from work (90 Km mixed motorway and country road) i averaged over 50mpg keeping to the speed limit of 120 on motorway and 80 on the country road. SO it is possible to get much better figures than the once presented in this video.
I've the Audi A4 3.0tdi 272 ps and fuel economy is far better in warm weather than in the winter. 45-48mpg on a run in the cold and 55_58mpg in warm weather.
Interesting 👍
Thanks for this, great review! I currently have a S4 petrol, same as yours.
I have been thinking about upgrading but have been put off by the change to diesel, and lack of so called emotion from the car. Also my car is driven in individual setting, auto for the engine and comfort for the gearbox and steering but dynamic for the exhaust note. But still manage an average of 37mpg on my commute, long term average of 33mpg.
Maybe this time BMW have the answer with the 340 m sport...👍🏻
😮
Managing low 40’s in the M340i Touring which I’m happy about. Coming from a Q7, it’s a big improvement!
You could always switch from the small dials to the larger ones with the nav in the middle, the central display with the nav on the left.
Thanks for letting me know 👍
Nice music on the return leg of the trip....I have found the steering feels best in Auto mode in Audis.
I worked at goonhilly earth station for 2 months a few years ago beautiful part of out country
Interesting review. I do the same sort of trip quite often from Outside Petersfield to Helston to visit family and on a good run in my 2005 2.7TD Range Rover Sport, get around 28MPG. Good you pointed out the extra cost for diesel, it’s often forgotten about now.
I think I’d stick with your Petrol S4, it’s more of an event to drive 👍
It’s not going anywhere 😜
Being Sensible #2 - Touch Screens
Personally I think they are a stupid trend...
1, On a bumpy road they are impossible to use
2, They get covered in finger prints
3, You make a good point (it had to happen sometime...) better for us lefties
4, If you have any neurological issues in your hands, hepatic feedback doesn't work (trust me on this)
3:10 Did you forget to tell us the right side exhaust pipes are fake?
Magic !
Thanks Barry 👍
Como in Italy? Sounds great more roaring diesel
Good review chap, I have an Audi a4 B9 3.0 diesel and it brilliant but an S4 should be petrol all day long, love the fast diesel but the new touch screen should have both features wheel and touch screen, the new voice control is better and works 90% of them. cheers have a good day.
Cheers 👍
I absolutely can't understand why Audi have made the S4 Diesel
I’m sure they have good reasons 🤔
Possibly to differentiate between the S and RS? Also, comparable premium brands like the 335d are diesel? 🤷♂️ I bet they sell more in the diesel though!
The biggest reason is a PROFIT. :) Rapid car, low consumption, tremendous torque...
But let's not forget that modern diesel cars are becoming a burden once they've past a certain mileage and you need to replace the particle filter and all that expensive filtration system such is with Euro6 norms. They're ok as long the car can be replaced within a 4-5 year cycle but afterwards with high milleage the maintenance costs are way too high and not feasible. Plus, why would you pay extra when you could simply get the normal 3.0Tdi if the fuel economy is so important? Paying 70k for this S4 doesn't really show that you're in it for the fuel economy anyways...get the 2.0Tdi and be done with that. The S4 is about emotion for petrolheads, a diesel just can't offer that, no matter what torque it makes. I think the main reason they offer S4,S6,S7 TDI in EU is because they have a CO2 quota now imposed for each manufacturer so VAG decided to cut it by selling diesels in EU so they can sell petrol on other markets where diesel wouldn't be attractive, such as USA or Asian markets where they don't wanna hear of diesel especially after the dieselgate. I don't find it as a smart move since all you hear now in EU is about banning diesel, it's all such a contradiction, they keep on selling diesel while EU says it will ban it...
It's to bring down the emissions levels across the class as a whole, the EU mandates a level cumulatively - i.e. all models added up. It's why the new S4 is available as a petrol outside the EU.
If you live in london what's the point on a diesel as you have to pay a £12 charge each day to drive in certain areas and that is soon to be expanded to other areas.
That is certainly worrying for city driving 😳
Hello pal. Great review. It’s nice when you can compare side by side.
Hi Bud 👋
I love the s4. I think they will make the next one a plug in hybrid. The a6 has a 3 litre phev v6 with same power as the s4 but at least 25 mile ev running. It’s Audi’s intentions to have 30 plug in cars by 2030 10 of which will be hybrids
We all love the A35 Petrol Ped
Good review... I’m with you, the point of going diesel over the same model in petrol has to be economy and 3-5 mph saving just isn’t enough especially when you factor in the typically higher servicing costs of a diesel.
Cheers Iain 👍
Unrealistic to expect mpg in the 50s for such a high performance car. High 30s to low 40s is probably what one might have expected. Experience tells me that an engine with huge torque like this one is a pleasure to drive in the real world. Good compromise between performance and economy.
You avoided stating that the exhaust pipe tips are fake!
Was this an instruction from Audi?
No !
Thanks for the honest review. I'm on my 9th Audi now and love the cars but I do wonder what direction they are going in with diesel. I often find myself having debates with people about downsizing form my RS7 / why do I need it but I can get over 400 miles from a tank at 31-32mpg at an average of 70mph and that S4 is only doing 37-39 mpg, the cost of changing and price of fuel just don't make it economically viable. Great for my man maths!
Looks like I'll be holding on to the RS7 for a while until the RSQ8 losses the bulk of its depreciation with its first owner!
Great Man-Maths 👍
I had a 3.0 l V6 diesel A5 for a couple of weeks while my TT was being fixed. It was thirstier than my petrol TT. Wasn't impressed.
Like the grey leather seats. But no "S" logo on them ?
No, mine doesn't either 😪
Thanks for some great thoughts, Peter. I think I am right in that the exhausts on the car are fake - they are on the S7. The two real exhausts are hidden on the nearside. O well, I hope the next S3 is not a diesel. Best wishes as always....👍🏼
At least they aren't as bad as the SQ5 😂
I work for Audi and have driven both vehicles. The new s4 is more powerful, think everyone's forgetting the 700nm torque and more economical. Plus by going diesel it's perfect for people that want to be different and want to have power but still do a few miles and therefore leaves the new RS vehicle to be more iconic and selective, BTW its quantum grey not nardo, nardo is exclusive RS colour
I have owned an A6 v6 tdi for 6 years bought at 4800 miles now at 53k. At 17k miles it loosened up and went from 39mpg to 45+ on the exact same route. This press car you have is still tight at 3660 miles, find a higher mileage one and see what the difference is. Coincidentally I'm swapping next week for the S4 tdi, can't wait 👍
Another excellent review - you are a realist and I like your reviews. I looked seriously at this car - because my A6 biturbo is a bit too big for my use. A phenomenal car (chipped) so I'll miss it. But when this was announced still with a screen in your face and false exhausts tips I just cant deal with that. (The RS4 is just too much money.) Also the turbo lag has not been resolved and I'm guessing that my A6 goes better. So the bottom line for my replacement is....a BMW M340i touring. Goes better, just as economical and sounds and drives superbly. Arrives January. So goodby Audi and hello BMW.
Thanks Greg 👍
I have a A4 b9 3.0 TDI 272 quattro that’s been remapped to 323 bhp and 745nm torque. I do 600 miles a week and average around 52mpg each tank, that is 90% motorway miles though. Poor show from that diesel S4. Although I would have thought as it gets more miles on it it will get better mpg.
WOW 😮