2007 Audi S4 Quattro Road Test

The Ultimate Ski-Trip Sedan

Maybe it was by pure luck or chance that the day after picking up Audi's S4 Quattro for winter testing, I was to encounter one of the worst snowstorms ever seen on my trek home from Barrie to Sudbury through the "snow-belt". Lake-effect snow often hampers winter driving with near whiteout conditions, snowdrifts and extreme changes in weather that come and go as they please.

A performance car built for winter.

A quick check on the radio before heading off confirmed what I'd been hoping for all night: severe heavy snowfall and blowing snow warnings between me and my destination. With 340 horsepower on tap, one of the worlds leading all wheel drive systems underneath, and all of the latest safety and stability features Europe has to offer, there was little to worry about.

All-season confidence is what Audi's Quattro system brings to today's motorist who doesn't plan to shelve their plans regardless of the weather forecast. Quattro comes standard in all but one car the German automaker builds--these are true performance cars that can be used in any weather. Try and drive a BMW M3 through the snow-belt at it's worst, and you'd need a valium.

Comfort meets Control
The "ticket-me yellow" test car was a blend of luxurious appointments and hardcore attitude. The ride is usually quiet, with wind and road noise never becoming intrusive, but all the while the tight, stiff suspension affords a fantastic feel for the tarmac. The steering is well weighted and very sudden. The engine, though lithe and efficient, makes a noise like a sixties muscle car when started and snorts when pushed towards its 7000 rpm redline. There's leather and suede, too--but they're used to trim a set of Recaro seats which have aggressive bolstering to hold occupants tight while cornering at speed.

Redline starts at 7000 rpm.

Interior
Personally, I'd need the S6's added size. It's not that the cabin is uncomfortable, although it is slightly cramped--especially in a heavy coat and when trying to operate the pedals with winter boots on. It's not a car for 5 big guys, that's for sure.