KevinB656

Hello all,

I'm a longtime poster on the B9 A4 forum, having had a B9 A4 since May of 2016 (120k trouble-free miles). The A4 has been terrific and I absolutely love it; however, my wife's car is getting a little long in the tooth and I'm thinking about passing the A4 down to her. That, of course, means I need to replace the A4. I've been jonesin' for an S4 Prestige with the sports package for a while now and think I want to focus on that. I'm not prepared to pay $70k for a new one, though, so am considering used. I wouldn't want anything earlier than 2021, but am wondering what I'd be missing by getting a low mileage 2021 versus a 2022 or 2023. I've watched a bunch of videos and read a bunch of reviews, but haven't been able to get a good handle on improvements in 2022 and 2023 that would justify moving up to those. Anyone have any thoughts on 2021 vs. 2022 or 2023 in terms of a used S4?

Thanks in advance.

Kevin

Aviator6

I had originally ordered a my22 S4, but due to production problems, my order was changed to a my23. The only difference was another interior color option(black nappa w/red stitching), and the B&O audio was now standard on the P+. Not sure of the my21, but I don't think was any changes at all. Looking at the my24, it seems that only a minor exterior color change. The Sport Package was a common option, but the Prestige model may be hard to locate. Love my S4

KevinB656

Thanks, Aviator. Sounds like 2021 may be the best bang for the buck.

DC3P0

I think there are some MY21 and/or MY22 cars that didn't get wireless charging pads due to supply chain issues but this is a net positive IMO. I never use the thing. it gets too hot using carplay and wireless charging. I just plug-in if I need a charge.

I think there are other small things missing on some years as well. My 23 Prestige throws a code for missing equipment on the rear trunk kick sensor. Turns out it never had the sensor to begin with. Not a big deal. Just kind of a quirk.

As far as the Prestige options go, they are mostly nice-to-haves. Ambient lighting, HUD, double-paned glass are all very nice but by no means necessary. The HUD in particular could be a big downside in terms of cost I think if I ever need a windshield replacement. I'm not sure which of these was offered in each of the B9.5 years though.

KevinB656

Good info, DC3PO. Thanks.

Aviator6

Yeah I get the code for the missing trunk kick sensor - module 46, I think. Funny thing is that the antenna for the kick sensor is installed in my S4!

DC3P0

Does it work despite throwing a code?
Mine doesn't work at all. I haven't physically checked for the sensor. Maybe I'll crawl up in there in look...

Aviator6

No, the code says missing or incorrect module. My guess & what the dealer agreed is that the module was a victim of the chip shortage.

Audis or VWs 4Life

I second the wireless charging pad being worthless unless you utilize it as a cell phone warmer. It would cause our iphones to overheat, especially if using carplay. Much easier to use the cable. I think some cars during the shortage had manual steering column adjusters rather then power. Also would recommend for anyone here to get windshield insurance for rocks, debris etc. Its not big money on a yearly basis when you consider what replace sheet of glass is plus all of the sensors that have be reconfigured etc.

KevinB656

Thanks to all for the information on this thread. I wound up picking up a glacier white 2021 S4 Prestige with Sport Package, Black Optic Package, Carbon Fiber Package, Dynamic Steering and 40k miles. The mileage was a little higher than I wanted, but there were only six 2021 Prestige models available in the whole US when I was looking and this is the only one that checked all my boxes. Out the door for $40k plus tax, with the original sticker being $68.5k. Had to fly to Florida from VA and drive it back. I absolutely love the car and wifey absolutely loves the 2017 A4 hand-me-down. :-)