Previously Audi moved the S4 from twin-turbo V-6 to a 4.2L V-8 boasting 340 hp in a bid for more output, but it looks as though worries about gas mileage and CO2 emissions are finally causing the automaker to blink. Returning to its forced-induction roots, the new 2010 S4 has a supercharged 3.0L V-6 under the hood, which is down 7 hp from last year's model. One of the primary benefits of the new powerplant is its impressive torque, for, along with 333 hp, it offers a full 324.5 lb-ft of twist, an upgrade from the 302 lb-ft available in the previous generation's V-8. In addition, maximum torque comes on at just 2500 rpm and remains constant through 4850 rpm, making the 2010 Audi S4 especially responsive in everyday driving (as an example, Audi cites a 50 to 75-mph time of 4.4 sec), and while some may miss the previous S4's V-8 rumble, in fact at 5.1 sec the new 2010 S4 model is actually a couple ticks faster from 0 to 62 mph.
In addition to the usual array of safety equipment, the 2010 Audi S4 offers features such as adaptive cruise control, a Side Assist blind-spot monitoring system, and a braking guard that warns of potential rear-end collisions. Tech goodies include Audi's MMI infotainment interface along with two different navigation systems, an iPod adapter, Bluetooth hands-free interface, and several audio systems topping out with a high-end Bang & Olufsen stereo.