In brief, the Audi S4 wore a supercharged heart during the B8 generation, roughly from 2010 through 2016 in most markets. After that, Audi shifted the S4 to a turbocharged setup with the B9 generation. This article explains when and how the S4 became supercharged, and how to identify those models.
Background: which S4s were supercharged and when
The S4 lineage includes several generations with different forced-induction setups. The supercharged S4 belongs to the B8 generation, which introduced a 3.0-liter V6 that is mechanically driven by a belt-powered supercharger. This setup produced about 333 horsepower and around 325 lb-ft of torque, and it was offered with a choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed S tronic automatic in various markets. The B9 generation, launched for model year 2017, swapped to a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, ending the factory-run of the supercharged S4.
- Model years and engine: B8 S4 (introduced around 2009; widely available as 2010–2016 model years in the U.S.) with a 3.0-liter V6 supercharged engine.
- Performance basics: about 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with quattro all-wheel drive and either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed S tronic transmission, depending on market and year.
- Generation context: this supercharged setup sits squarely in the B8 period; the subsequent B9 S4 uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and is not supercharged.
In summary, if you’re looking for a factory-backed S4 with a supercharger, you’re mainly looking at the B8 era, roughly 2010 through 2016 model years in common markets. The move to turbocharging happened with the B9 starting in 2017.
How to identify a supercharged S4
Use these quick checks to confirm whether an S4 is the supercharged B8 version, and to distinguish it from later turbocharged models or earlier generations.
- Engine badging and coverage: a 3.0-liter V6 labeled as “3.0 TFSI” and explicitly described as supercharged in dealership materials or the engine bay is a strong clue for the B8 S4.
- Model year and generation: if the car is a 2010–2016 model year in most markets, it is a likely B8 supercharged S4. Models from 2017 onward are generally turbocharged and belong to the B9 generation.
- Engine bay appearance: the B8’s supercharged setup is front-and-center with a belt-driven supercharger; you may see distinctive snout-like components near the front of the engine compared with later turbo engines.
- Performance notes: official figures commonly cite about 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, with 0–60 mph times in the mid-4 to low-5 second range depending on transmission and market.
By checking these details—badging, model year, and the visible engine hardware—you can confidently determine whether a given S4 is the supercharged B8 variant.
Other S4 variants and how they differ
Beyond the supercharged B8, Audi offered other S4 configurations across different generations, which used different induction systems or none at all. The pre-B8 S4 models relied on turbocharged or naturally aspirated setups or were part of a different engine family altogether, and the B9 moved to turbocharging exclusively. This section helps place the supercharged S4 in context with its siblings.
- B5 S4 (late 1990s–early 2000s) used a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6.
- B6/B7 S4 (2001–2008) used a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 in the US market and did not feature a factory supercharger.
- B8 S4 (2009–2016) is the single generation widely recognized for its factory supercharged 3.0-liter V6.
- B9 S4 (2017–present) uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and does not employ a supercharger.
Understanding this lineage helps explain why the supercharged S4 is associated with a specific window in Audi’s history and why later models shifted to turbocharging.
Summary
The Audi S4 that wears a supercharger is tied to the B8 generation, produced roughly from 2010 through 2016 in the U.S. and many other markets. It features a 3.0-liter V6 supercharged engine delivering about 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, with drivetrain and transmission options varying by year and market. Beginning with the B9 generation in 2017, the S4 returned to turbocharging and no longer used a factory supercharger. If you’re evaluating an S4 for purchase, confirming the model year and engine badge is the quickest way to verify whether it’s the supercharged B8 variant.
Which Audi S4 came supercharged?
The 2009-2016 Audi S4 featured the Volkswagen Group's supercharged 3.0L V6 TFSI engine. It delivered 333 horsepower at 5,500-7,000 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 2,900-5,300 rpm.
Is a 2014 S4 supercharged?
The 2014 Audi S4 is powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 333 hp and 325 pound-feet of torque.
What year Audi S4 to stay away from?
Unfortunately, no years of the Audi S4 have an incredible track record. However, the Audi S4 years to avoid include the 2005, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2018, and 2019 models. These have the most reported issues and will cost precious time and money to care for as an owner.
Is the 2020 S4 supercharged?
Overview. Based on the already dynamically pleasing Audi A4, the 2020 S4 adds horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension to the mix to dial in the performance. All-wheel drive is standard and the S4 is powered by a 349-hp turbocharged V-6 engine that hustles this four-door along—how does 4.3 seconds to 60 mph sound?