Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Audi S4
With an overall Carivo score of 7.7/10, the 2021 Audi S4 earns a Recommended rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.7/10, while Reliability at 6.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.7/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.2/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
The 8.6/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sedan you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology scores 8.7/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $48,776–$63,500, 22 MPG, seating 5, the Audi S4 sits in the premium tier of the sedan category. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2021 Audi S4 as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in value and reliability are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2021 Audi S4 ranks #428 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 67% of the segment. Its 7.7/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $48,776 starting price is about 76% above the segment's median of $27,664.
$0 — 4 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which S4 Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Audi S4 scores 7.6/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.7 — and starts roughly $5,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Audi S4 (4 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan,…
Back over prevention / Display function 05/10/2022 · 22V742000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2021 Audi S4 that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2021 Audi S4
Is the 2021 Audi S4 reliable?
We rate the 2021 Audi S4's reliability 6.7/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi S4 have?
4 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Audi S4 worth buying?
It scores 7.7/10 overall, ranking #428 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 67% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Audi S4 cost?
The 2021 Audi S4 starts at $48,776 and ranges up to $63,500 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which S4 years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest S4 years we've rated are 2017 (7.4/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.9/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
What problems does the 2021 Audi S4 have?
The documented issues for the 2021 Audi S4 are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Seat belts, Tires, Suspension, Back over prevention (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Audi S4
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More Audi Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Audi models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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