cars news 10: Top-Spec 2017 Audi S4 Avant Revealed for Europe

Audi has pulled the wraps off its newest sporty compact wagon: the 2017 Audi S4 Avant. The new long-roof body style joins the 2017 Audi S4 sedan as the top-spec model in the A4 lineup.

Based on Volkswagen Group’s MLB2 architecture, the B9 chassis S4 Avant is powered by the same turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter TFSI V-6 engine as the S4 sedan. The engine is rated 354 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque from 1,370-4,500 rpm. That’s 21 hp and 43 lb-ft more than the previous supercharged V-6. An eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission sends power to the standard Quattro all-wheel drive system. Audi says the new S4 Avant is 165 pounds lighter than the previous model.

Audi claims the new sporty wagon can reach 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds — 0.2 seconds longer than the S4 sedan — and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. In normal driving, the Quattro system is tuned for a slight rear-drive bias, which can adjust torque between the axles based on changing conditions. A torque vectoring system, optional sport differential, and electric power steering also contribute to better handling, according to Audi.

The 2017 Audi S4 Avant features five-link front and rear suspensions that ride 0.9 inches lower than the standard A4 Avant. The optional chassis and damper control features continuous damping control (CDC), and gives the driver several suspension modes. A set of 18-inch wheels wrapped in 245/40 tires are standard, while a set of Audi Sport 19-inch wheels are available. The front brakes feature a set of 13.8-inch vented and perforated discs clamped by black six-piston calipers. The calipers can be optioned in red.

2017 Audi S4 Avant Euro Spec front seats

Inside, the five-seat S4 Avant features the same dashboard as the S4 sedan, and includes the automaker’s latest MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and an 8.3-inch screen. The optional Audi virtual cockpit features a configurable 12.3-inch screen. Other infotainment and connectivity tech includes a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, an LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Audi MMI connect app, an Audi tablet, Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone integration, and more.

The standard Nappa leather seating (available in black, rotor gray, or magma red) features a diamond pattern, contrast stitching, and an S badge, while the optional S sport seats feature a massage function. Matte brushed aluminum contrasts with the black interior. The S4 Avant features 17.8-53.3 cubic feet of cargo room (depending on rear seat position) compared to just 17.0 cubic feet for its sedan counterpart.

Driver assistance and active safety tech includes adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go function and traffic jam assist, cross traffic assist, exit warning, turn assist, obstacle avoidance assist, and Audi pre sense systems.

Pricing for the 2017 Audi S4 Avant starts at 61,150 euros or about $67,400. Audi hasn’t confirmed the wagon variant of the S4 for the U.S.

Source: Audi