11 Best Tires for Audi S4: Maximize Grip, Handling & Comfort

Did you know that the right set of tires can unlock your Audi S4’s full performance potential? While often overlooked, tires play a crucial role in how your high-performance sedan handles, brakes, and accelerates.

For many S4 owners, finding the perfect balance between exhilarating performance and everyday practicality can be a challenge. The wrong tire choice can leave you disappointed with lackluster grip or frustrated by excessive road noise and poor ride quality.

This comprehensive guide explores the 11 best tire options for the Audi S4, carefully selected to enhance its impressive capabilities while meeting the diverse needs of drivers. We’ll dive into key factors to consider, from weather performance and tread life to noise levels and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re looking for maximum track day grip, year-round versatility, or winter-ready traction, you’ll discover expert recommendations to elevate your S4 driving experience.

Buckle up as we explore top contenders from renowned brands, budget-friendly alternatives that punch above their weight class, and specialized options for conquering harsh winters. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to choose the perfect tires to complement your S4’s sophisticated engineering and your unique driving style.

Best Tires for Audi S4: Performance Meets Safety

The Audi S4 represents the perfect marriage of luxury and performance, delivering exhilarating acceleration and handling that demands respect. However, unlocking your S4’s full potential isn’t just about what’s under the hood—it’s equally about where the rubber meets the road. Premium tires aren’t merely an accessory for your Audi S4; they’re an essential performance component that influences everything from cornering grip to braking distance and ride comfort.

The S4’s sophisticated Quattro all-wheel-drive system, powerful turbocharged engine, and precision-engineered suspension all work in harmony, but this symphony of German engineering requires the right tires to truly sing. High-performance rubber compounds, specialized tread patterns, and reinforced sidewalls are critical features that complement the S4’s capabilities, ensuring that power is effectively transferred to the pavement while maintaining control in various driving conditions.

What sets exceptional S4-worthy tires apart is their ability to balance seemingly contradictory demands. They must deliver razor-sharp handling response without sacrificing ride quality. They need to provide tenacious grip in dry conditions while still performing admirably in the wet. And increasingly, drivers expect reasonable tread life from tires that work hard during spirited driving sessions.

Throughout this guide, we’ll explore the eleven best tire options for your Audi S4, carefully selected to enhance its performance characteristics while maintaining the safety standards you expect from a premium vehicle. Whether you prioritize maximum grip for occasional track days, comfortable touring for daily driving, or all-weather versatility, we’ve identified options that will complement your driving style and expectations.

Understanding Your Audi S4’s Tire Needs

The Audi S4 represents a masterful blend of luxury and performance engineering, demanding tires that can match its sophisticated capabilities. As a high-performance sports sedan, the S4 requires rubber that can handle its substantial power output while maintaining the refined driving experience Audi owners expect.

Stock tire sizes for the Audi S4 typically range from 245/40R18 to 255/35R19, depending on the model year and trim level. These dimensions are carefully selected by Audi engineers to optimize the vehicle’s handling, comfort, and performance characteristics. The first number (245 or 255) represents the tire width in millimeters, while the second set (40 or 35) indicates the aspect ratio – the sidewall height as a percentage of the width. The “R” denotes radial construction, and the final number (18 or 19) is the wheel diameter in inches.

Load ratings for the S4’s tires generally fall between 93 and 97, which corresponds to a per-tire weight capacity of approximately 1,433 to 1,609 pounds. This rating ensures the tires can adequately support the vehicle’s weight plus cargo and passengers, even during dynamic driving situations where weight transfer occurs.

Speed ratings are equally crucial for the S4’s performance capabilities. Most factory-equipped tires come with a Y-rating (capable of speeds up to 186 mph) or W-rating (up to 168 mph). These high-speed ratings aren’t just about top-end velocity – they indicate the tire’s ability to dissipate heat effectively during sustained high-speed driving, a critical factor for the S4’s performance envelope.

The S4’s power characteristics significantly influence tire selection. With modern variants producing upwards of 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque channeled through Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, tires must provide exceptional grip under acceleration while managing the substantial torque delivered to all four wheels. This requires rubber compounds that balance adhesion with durability.

Handling dynamics also play a crucial role in tire selection. The S4’s sport-tuned suspension, precise steering, and balanced weight distribution demand tires with responsive sidewalls, excellent transitional behavior, and predictable grip limits. The ideal tire complements the S4’s inherent agility while providing the driver with clear feedback as the limits of adhesion approach.

Year-round usability is another consideration for many S4 owners. While summer performance tires offer the ultimate grip in warm conditions, those living in variable climates may need to consider high-performance all-season options or dedicated winter tires for colder months. The quattro system provides excellent traction, but even the most sophisticated all-wheel-drive setup requires appropriate tires to function effectively in challenging conditions.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Tires for Your Audi S4

Selecting the right tires for your Audi S4 requires balancing several crucial factors to ensure optimal performance and safety. The S4’s sporty nature demands tires that can keep up with its capabilities while still delivering in other important areas.

Weather Performance
Your local climate should heavily influence your tire choice. High-performance summer tires excel in dry and wet conditions but become dangerously stiff in temperatures below 45°F. All-season performance tires offer a compromise with year-round usability but sacrifice some warm-weather grip. For S4 owners in snowy regions, dedicated winter tires are essential for cold-weather safety, providing the traction needed for the S4’s power.

Tread Life
Performance tires typically wear faster than touring or all-season options due to their softer compounds. Most premium performance tires for the S4 offer treadwear warranties between 30,000-50,000 miles. Consider your annual mileage and driving style – aggressive drivers may find themselves replacing tires more frequently. Some manufacturers now offer performance tires with improved longevity, though they may sacrifice some grip at the limit.

Noise Levels and Comfort
The Audi S4 strikes a balance between sportiness and luxury, and your tire choice should complement this. Wider, more aggressive tread patterns typically generate more road noise. Many premium tire manufacturers now incorporate noise-reduction technologies like sound-absorbing foam or optimized tread patterns. Sidewall stiffness also affects ride quality – stiffer sidewalls improve handling precision but can transmit more road imperfections into the cabin.

Fuel Efficiency
Tire rolling resistance directly impacts your S4’s fuel economy. Low rolling resistance tires can improve efficiency by 2-4%, which adds up over thousands of miles. Many modern performance tires now incorporate silica compounds and advanced construction techniques to reduce rolling resistance without compromising grip. Look for tires with EU label ratings for fuel efficiency if this factor is important to you.

Price Considerations
Tires for the Audi S4 typically range from $175 to $350 per tire, with premium options commanding higher prices. While it’s tempting to save money upfront, premium tires often deliver better value through longer tread life, improved performance, and enhanced safety. Consider the total cost of ownership rather than just the initial purchase price. Some manufacturers offer road hazard warranties or satisfaction guarantees that can provide additional value.

Size and Fitment
The Audi S4 typically uses tires in sizes like 245/40R18 or 255/35R19, depending on the model year and wheel package. Ensure you select the correct size for your specific S4 to maintain proper speedometer calibration and handling characteristics. Some owners opt for a slightly wider tire for improved dry grip, but this should be done carefully to avoid clearance issues.

When selecting tires for your Audi S4, prioritize the factors that align with your driving style and local conditions. A performance-focused driver in a warm climate will have different needs than someone using their S4 as a year-round daily driver in variable weather conditions.

1. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S: Ultimate Performance for Your S4

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S stands as the benchmark in ultra-high-performance tires, making it an exceptional match for your Audi S4’s capabilities. As the successor to the legendary Pilot Super Sport, this tire elevates performance driving to new heights while maintaining reasonable everyday usability.

On dry roads, the Pilot Sport 4S delivers extraordinary grip levels that complement the S4’s quattro all-wheel-drive system perfectly. The tire’s asymmetric tread pattern features a rigid outer shoulder with large, solid blocks that maximize cornering stability—exactly what you need when pushing your S4 through challenging curves. Michelin’s proprietary Bi-Compound technology incorporates different rubber formulations across the tread: a firmer elastomer on the outer portion for precise handling and a softer compound on the inner section for enhanced wet grip.

Speaking of wet conditions, the Pilot Sport 4S truly distinguishes itself from competitors. Its four wide circumferential grooves efficiently channel water away from the contact patch, significantly reducing hydroplaning risk. Even during sudden downpours, these tires maintain impressive traction, allowing your S4’s safety systems to function optimally.

Braking performance deserves special mention—the Pilot Sport 4S delivers some of the shortest stopping distances in its class. For an Audi S4 driver, this translates to confidence-inspiring deceleration from high speeds, complementing the car’s powerful braking system.

Despite its uncompromising performance orientation, the Pilot Sport 4S offers surprisingly reasonable tread life for the category. While not as durable as touring tires, many S4 owners report getting 25,000-30,000 miles from a set with spirited driving—significantly better than most ultra-high-performance alternatives. Michelin backs this durability with a 30,000-mile treadwear warranty, rare among tires in this performance class.

Comfort hasn’t been sacrificed either. The Pilot Sport 4S produces minimal road noise, allowing you to enjoy the S4’s premium audio system without interference. The tire’s construction also effectively filters out minor road imperfections without compromising feedback—maintaining that crucial connection between driver and road that S4 owners cherish.

The primary drawback? Premium performance commands premium pricing. The Pilot Sport 4S typically costs more than most competitors, but the investment delivers tangible benefits in nearly every performance metric that matters to S4 drivers. For those who demand the absolute best for their Audi S4, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S represents the gold standard in performance tires.

2. Continental ExtremeContact Sport: Balanced Performance and Value

The Continental ExtremeContact Sport stands out as one of the most well-rounded tire options for your Audi S4. This tire delivers an impressive balance of performance characteristics that complement the S4’s sporty yet refined nature.

When it comes to grip, the ExtremeContact Sport truly shines. Its advanced silica-enhanced tread compound provides exceptional road adhesion, allowing your S4 to harness its turbocharged power effectively. The tire’s grip remains consistent across a wide range of temperatures, making it a reliable choice regardless of season or climate.

Handling characteristics are where this Continental option particularly excels. The tire features a solid continuous center rib that enhances steering response and precision—crucial attributes when navigating winding roads in your S4. The asymmetric tread pattern with large, rigid shoulder blocks translates to confident cornering stability, allowing you to push your Audi closer to its performance limits with greater confidence.

Wet performance is another area where the ExtremeContact Sport proves its worth. The tire incorporates wide circumferential grooves and open lateral slots that efficiently evacuate water, significantly reducing hydroplaning risk. This translates to impressive braking distances and cornering capabilities even in challenging rainy conditions—a vital safety consideration for a high-performance sedan like the S4.

Perhaps most compelling is the Continental’s value proposition. While premium in nature, the ExtremeContact Sport typically costs less than comparable offerings from Michelin or Pirelli while delivering 90-95% of their performance capabilities. Additionally, owners report impressive treadwear characteristics, with many getting 30,000+ miles from a set—exceptional longevity for a high-performance summer tire.

The tire’s refinement also deserves mention. Road noise is well-controlled, complementing the S4’s premium cabin experience. The ride quality strikes a smart balance between communicative feedback and comfort, avoiding the harshness sometimes associated with ultra-high-performance tires.

For the Audi S4 owner seeking maximum performance without breaking the bank, the Continental ExtremeContact Sport represents one of the smartest choices on the market today.

3. Bridgestone Potenza Sport: Precision Handling for Your S4

The Bridgestone Potenza Sport represents the Japanese manufacturer’s flagship ultra-high-performance tire, and it shines brilliantly when paired with the Audi S4’s performance capabilities. These tires deliver an exceptional driving experience that complements the S4’s sporty character.

When it comes to cornering stability, the Potenza Sport truly excels. The tire’s rigid sidewall construction and optimized tread pattern work together to provide remarkable lateral grip, allowing S4 owners to take corners with confidence at higher speeds. The tire maintains its shape even under extreme cornering forces, giving drivers a consistent feel throughout aggressive maneuvers.

Responsiveness is another area where the Potenza Sport stands out. The tire’s advanced compound and precise construction deliver near-instantaneous feedback to steering inputs, creating a direct connection between the driver and the road. This heightened responsiveness perfectly matches the S4’s precise steering, allowing drivers to place the car exactly where they want it on the road or track.

Dry grip is simply outstanding with these tires. The innovative tread compound, developed using Bridgestone’s proprietary technologies, creates exceptional adhesion to the road surface. This translates to impressive acceleration, shorter braking distances, and the ability to maintain higher speeds through corners—all critical aspects for the performance-oriented S4 driver.

For spirited driving, which many S4 owners indulge in, the Potenza Sport proves to be an ideal companion. The tire’s construction is designed to handle the heat generated during aggressive driving sessions without significant performance degradation. This thermal stability ensures consistent performance even after multiple high-speed runs or track sessions.

While the Potenza Sport prioritizes performance, it doesn’t completely sacrifice comfort. The tire manages to filter out smaller road imperfections while maintaining the tactile feedback that enthusiast drivers crave. This balance makes it suitable for daily driving as well as weekend adventures on winding roads.

The only notable drawback is that the Potenza Sport’s exceptional dry performance comes with some compromise in wet conditions, particularly in heavy rain. While still competent in light wet conditions, it doesn’t quite match the wet performance of some competitors like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.

For Audi S4 owners who prioritize precision handling and maximum dry grip for spirited driving, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport represents one of the finest choices available, delivering performance that can truly unlock the potential of this sophisticated sports sedan.

4. Pirelli P Zero: Italian Excellence for German Engineering

The Pirelli P Zero represents a perfect marriage between Italian tire craftsmanship and German automotive engineering for your Audi S4. As one of the most recognized ultra-high-performance tires in the world, the P Zero has earned its prestigious reputation through decades of motorsport experience and collaboration with premium automakers.

When fitted to the Audi S4, the P Zero delivers exceptional dry grip that complements the quattro all-wheel-drive system perfectly. The tire’s specialized tread compound—featuring enhanced silica content and specialized polymers—creates an impressive contact patch that translates to razor-sharp steering response and remarkable cornering stability, even when pushing your S4 to its limits.

What makes the P Zero particularly suitable for the S4 is its status as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tire for numerous luxury and performance vehicles. Pirelli engineers work directly with automakers like Audi to develop specific versions of the P Zero that complement each vehicle’s unique characteristics. This means your S4 gets a tire specifically tuned to its suspension geometry, power delivery, and handling dynamics.

The P Zero’s asymmetric tread pattern deserves special mention when discussing its performance on the S4. The outer shoulder features larger, more rigid blocks that maximize lateral grip during aggressive cornering—something S4 owners will certainly appreciate. Meanwhile, the inner portion of the tread focuses on water evacuation and stability, providing a safety net when conditions aren’t perfect.

Road noise—often a concern with performance tires—is remarkably well-controlled in the P Zero. Pirelli has implemented noise-canceling technology in the form of a sound-absorbing material inside the tire that reduces cabin noise, allowing you to better enjoy the S4’s refined interior and audio system without tire drone intruding on the experience.

While the P Zero commands a premium price point, its longevity when properly maintained makes it a worthwhile investment for the discerning S4 owner who refuses to compromise on performance. Many drivers report 25,000-30,000 miles of treadlife when driven enthusiastically but responsibly, representing solid value for a tire of this caliber.

5. Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5: Advanced Technology for Your S4

The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 represents a significant technological leap forward in the ultra-high-performance tire category, making it an excellent match for your Audi S4. This tire builds upon Goodyear’s racing heritage while incorporating several innovative features that directly enhance your driving experience.

At the heart of the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 is Goodyear’s “Active Braking Technology,” which expands the tire’s contact patch during hard braking. This intelligent design creates more rubber-to-road contact precisely when you need it most, reducing stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces. For Audi S4 drivers who occasionally push their vehicles to the limit, this translates to increased confidence when approaching corners at speed.

The tire’s compound utilizes Goodyear’s latest polymer blends, which maintain flexibility across a wide temperature range. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for the S4, as it ensures consistent performance whether you’re taking a spirited early morning drive or engaging in more aggressive afternoon driving when the pavement is hot. The compound’s adaptability mirrors the versatility of the S4 itself.

In wet conditions, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 truly distinguishes itself. The tire features optimized tread patterns with wide grooves that efficiently evacuate water, significantly reducing hydroplaning risk. The edges of these grooves are precisely angled to maintain grip during cornering on wet surfaces—a critical feature for maintaining the S4’s characteristic handling precision regardless of weather conditions.

Dry performance is equally impressive, with a rigid center rib that provides exceptional straight-line stability at highway speeds. This design element complements the S4’s autobahn-bred DNA, allowing for composed high-speed cruising while still delivering immediate steering response during lane changes or evasive maneuvers.

Road noise—often a concern with performance tires—has been thoughtfully addressed through Goodyear’s noise-dampening technologies. The tread pattern incorporates variable pitch sequencing that disrupts the harmonics that typically cause road noise, resulting in a quieter cabin that allows you to better appreciate the S4’s premium audio system or simply enjoy conversation during longer journeys.

Durability hasn’t been sacrificed for performance either. The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 features reinforced sidewalls that resist flexing during aggressive cornering, preserving the tire’s shape and contact patch even under the substantial lateral forces generated by the S4’s performance capabilities. This design also provides added protection against curb damage—a practical consideration for daily drivers.

For S4 owners concerned about fuel efficiency, the tire’s low rolling resistance design helps maintain reasonable fuel economy despite its performance-oriented nature. While not the primary consideration for most S4 drivers, this efficiency doesn’t come at the expense of the responsive feel and feedback that make performance driving enjoyable.

The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 represents an excellent balance of capabilities that align perfectly with the Audi S4’s performance profile, offering advanced technology that enhances rather than compromises the driving experience that S4 owners expect and appreciate.

6. Yokohama Advan Sport V105: High Performance at a Competitive Price

The Yokohama Advan Sport V105 represents an excellent middle ground for Audi S4 owners who want serious performance without the premium price tag of some competitor tires. Developed with input from luxury European automakers, these tires deliver impressive capabilities that complement the S4’s sporty character.

What makes the Advan Sport V105 stand out is its ability to provide near-flagship performance at a more accessible price point. The tire features an advanced asymmetric tread pattern with large, rigid outer blocks that enhance cornering stability—a crucial factor when pushing your S4 through winding roads. The continuous center rib improves straight-line stability and steering response, giving drivers confidence at higher speeds.

In wet conditions, the V105 performs admirably thanks to its three wide circumferential grooves and optimized sipe design that effectively evacuate water to prevent hydroplaning. This makes it a reliable choice for S4 owners who don’t let a little rain interfere with spirited driving.

The compound used in these tires strikes an excellent balance between grip and longevity. While not quite matching the ultra-premium options in terms of absolute grip, the difference is negligible in everyday spirited driving. Many S4 owners report getting 25,000-30,000 miles from a set, which represents good value considering their performance capabilities.

Road noise is well-controlled for a high-performance tire, with the Advan Sport V105 producing less cabin noise than many competitors. This makes them suitable for the daily-driven S4, preserving the refined interior experience Audi owners expect.

For S4 owners looking to maximize their performance-per-dollar ratio, the Yokohama Advan Sport V105 offers an impressive package that delivers 90% of the capability of tires costing significantly more. They’re particularly well-suited to drivers who enjoy spirited weekend drives but also use their S4 for daily commuting duties.

7. Dunlop Sport Maxx RT2: Responsive Handling for Your Audi

The Dunlop Sport Maxx RT2 stands as one of the most responsive tire options available for your Audi S4, delivering performance that perfectly complements the car’s sporty character. Engineered with Dunlop’s racing heritage in mind, these tires offer exceptional steering precision that S4 owners will immediately appreciate.

What makes the Sport Maxx RT2 particularly impressive is its adaptive compound technology. This innovative feature allows the tire to respond differently depending on driving conditions. During normal driving, the compound remains relatively firm for improved fuel efficiency and longevity. However, when pushed harder through corners or during rapid acceleration—situations familiar to S4 owners—the compound becomes more compliant, maximizing contact with the road surface.

The tread pattern deserves special mention, featuring massive outer shoulder blocks that provide remarkable stability during high-speed cornering. This design element is particularly beneficial for the S4’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, as it helps translate the car’s power delivery into controlled, predictable handling rather than understeer.

Wet performance is another area where the Sport Maxx RT2 excels. The tires incorporate wide circumferential grooves and numerous lateral channels that efficiently evacuate water from beneath the contact patch. This design significantly reduces hydroplaning risk while maintaining impressive grip on wet surfaces—a crucial safety feature for a high-performance sedan like the S4.

Road feedback through the Sport Maxx RT2 is exceptional, offering the driver a clear sense of available grip without transmitting excessive road noise or harshness. This characteristic perfectly complements the S4’s balanced chassis, enhancing driver confidence without compromising comfort.

While not the absolute longest-lasting performance tire in its class, the Sport Maxx RT2 offers respectable treadwear for a high-performance summer tire. Most S4 owners report getting approximately 25,000-30,000 miles from a set with mixed driving conditions, which represents a reasonable compromise given the performance benefits.

For Audi S4 owners seeking responsive handling without breaking the bank, the Dunlop Sport Maxx RT2 hits a sweet spot of performance, price, and practicality that makes it one of the best tire options for this sophisticated German sports sedan.

8. Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3: Budget-Friendly Performance Option

The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 stands as a compelling option for Audi S4 owners seeking high-performance capabilities without the premium price tag of some competitor brands. This tire represents Hankook’s flagship ultra-high-performance offering, engineered with technology that punches well above its price point.

What makes the Ventus S1 Evo3 particularly attractive is its ability to deliver approximately 85-90% of the performance of top-tier options like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S at roughly 70-75% of the cost. The tire features an advanced silica compound and an asymmetric tread pattern that provides excellent dry grip for spirited driving while maintaining respectable wet performance characteristics essential for an all-around performance tire.

Audi S4 drivers will appreciate the Ventus S1 Evo3’s rigid outside shoulder blocks, which promote precise turn-in response and lateral stability during aggressive cornering – critical attributes when piloting a vehicle with the S4’s capabilities. The tire’s construction includes a high-strength steel belt and reinforced sidewall that help maintain tire shape under load, contributing to consistent handling characteristics that complement the S4’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Where the Hankook makes some compromises is in ultimate grip levels at the very edge of performance and in tread life compared to premium options. While the tire performs admirably in most driving scenarios, professional drivers or track enthusiasts might notice the difference in absolute grip limits compared to the class leaders. Additionally, some owners report slightly faster wear rates, particularly when subjected to frequent aggressive driving.

Road noise and comfort represent another area where the Ventus S1 Evo3 offers a reasonable compromise. While not as refined as the Michelin or Continental options, the tire provides acceptable noise levels and ride quality that won’t detract from the S4’s premium driving experience. The tire’s internal structure includes noise-reducing technology that helps minimize road noise transmission into the cabin.

For Audi S4 owners prioritizing value without significantly sacrificing performance, the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 delivers a compelling package that handles daily driving, occasional spirited runs, and even light track duty with confidence. It’s an intelligent choice for those who recognize that the final few percentage points of performance often come with a disproportionate increase in cost.

9. Falken Azenis FK510: Underrated Performer for the S4

The Falken Azenis FK510 stands as one of the most underappreciated performance tires in the Audi S4 community. Despite flying under the radar compared to more prominent brands, this tire delivers impressive capabilities that make it worthy of serious consideration for your S4.

What makes the FK510 particularly noteworthy is its exceptional grip in both dry and wet conditions. Falken has engineered these tires with an advanced silica compound and an asymmetric tread pattern that creates substantial contact with the road surface. For S4 owners, this translates to confident cornering and reliable traction during spirited driving, especially when pushing through those sweeping countryside curves.

The FK510’s sidewall construction deserves special attention. It strikes an impressive balance between rigidity for precise steering response and enough compliance to absorb road imperfections. This characteristic particularly complements the S4’s sporty suspension setup, enhancing the car’s natural handling dynamics rather than fighting against them.

One area where the Falken truly distinguishes itself is value proposition. Typically priced 15-20% below premium competitors like Michelin and Pirelli, the FK510 delivers performance that rivals these established brands in many aspects. For the performance-per-dollar ratio, few options can match what Falken offers here.

The tire’s noise characteristics are also well-suited to the S4’s dual nature as both sports sedan and comfortable daily driver. While not the quietest option available, road noise remains well-controlled even at highway speeds, allowing you to enjoy the S4’s premium audio system without unwanted interference.

Longevity might not match the absolute best in class, with owners reporting around 25,000-30,000 miles of tread life under spirited driving conditions. However, this remains competitive for the performance category and must be considered alongside the tire’s lower initial cost.

For S4 owners seeking performance that punches above its price class, the Falken Azenis FK510 represents one of the market’s hidden gems—delivering capabilities that satisfy driving enthusiasts without the premium price tag of more marketed alternatives.

10. Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4: All-Season Options

For Audi S4 owners who face varying weather conditions throughout the year, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 offers an impressive blend of performance and versatility. This premium all-season tire stands out as the go-to choice for drivers who demand year-round capability without sacrificing the driving dynamics that make the S4 special.

The Pilot Sport All Season 4 delivers exceptional dry performance that rivals many summer tires, with responsive steering and impressive cornering grip. What sets it apart from dedicated summer options is its remarkable wet-weather capability, featuring advanced compounds and an asymmetric tread pattern that effectively channels water away to maintain contact with the road surface.

Where this tire truly shines for S4 owners is its light winter performance. While not a replacement for dedicated winter tires in severe conditions, the Pilot Sport All Season 4 provides confident handling in light snow and cold temperatures. The tire incorporates Michelin’s Helio+ technology, which features sunflower oil and extreme silica in the tread compound to maintain flexibility when temperatures drop.

The tire’s construction includes a rigid outer shoulder with large tread blocks that promote stability during aggressive cornering—a feature S4 drivers will appreciate. Meanwhile, the inner portion of the tread focuses on wet and winter performance with numerous sipes and grooves.

Noise levels remain impressively controlled for a performance-oriented tire, with Michelin’s acoustic technology helping to minimize road noise that might otherwise intrude on the S4’s refined cabin experience. The ride quality strikes a balance between communicative feedback and comfort, complementing the S4’s sport-luxury positioning.

While the premium price point may give some buyers pause, the Pilot Sport All Season 4’s exceptional treadwear ratings and performance longevity make it a value proposition over time. For S4 owners who want to maintain their vehicle’s performance character throughout the year without seasonal tire changes, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 represents the gold standard in all-season performance tires.

11. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3: Winter Performance

When winter arrives and temperatures drop, even the most capable performance tires can struggle to provide adequate grip. For Audi S4 owners living in regions with severe winter conditions, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 stands as the premier choice for maintaining both safety and driving enjoyment during the coldest months.

The Hakkapeliitta R3 comes from Finland—a country that understands winter driving better than most—and represents the cutting edge of winter tire technology. These tires feature a specialized Arctic Sense Grip compound that remains flexible even in extreme cold, allowing the rubber to adapt to road surfaces when temperatures fall well below freezing.

What makes the Hakkapeliitta R3 particularly suitable for the Audi S4 is its ability to maintain some of the sporty characteristics S4 drivers value while delivering exceptional winter performance. The tire’s asymmetric tread pattern incorporates functional sipes that act as tiny biting edges, dramatically improving grip on snow and ice without sacrificing the stability needed for a performance sedan.

On snow-covered roads, the Hakkapeliitta R3 provides confident acceleration and braking that summer or all-season tires simply cannot match. The deep snow claws between tread blocks provide additional traction when powering through fresh snow, working harmoniously with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Perhaps most impressive is the tire’s ice performance. The Hakkapeliitta R3 features Nokian’s Cryo Crystal 3 technology—microscopic crystal-like particles in the rubber compound that function like built-in studs, creating additional grip points on icy surfaces. This technology allows S4 drivers to maintain control during emergency maneuvers on ice without resorting to traditional studded tires.

Despite being a dedicated winter tire, the Hakkapeliitta R3 maintains reasonable road noise levels and offers surprisingly responsive handling for a winter tire. While you won’t mistake them for summer performance tires, they deliver a driving experience that won’t leave S4 enthusiasts feeling completely disconnected from the road during winter months.

For Audi S4 owners who refuse to park their vehicle when snow begins to fall, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 represents the ideal compromise between winter safety and performance driving characteristics. These tires transform the S4 from a potential liability in winter conditions into a confident, capable machine that can handle whatever winter throws its way.

Maintenance Tips for Getting the Most from Your Audi S4 Tires

Owning an Audi S4 means you’ve invested in a high-performance vehicle that deserves equally high-quality care, especially when it comes to its tires. Proper maintenance not only extends tire life but also preserves your S4’s handling characteristics and performance capabilities.

Proper Inflation: The Foundation of Tire Care

The Audi S4’s tire pressure requirements are specifically calibrated to its weight distribution and performance characteristics. Check your driver’s door jamb or owner’s manual for the exact PSI recommendations, typically between 35-38 PSI for most S4 models. Remember that these performance tires are particularly sensitive to pressure changes:

• Check pressure at least monthly and before any spirited driving sessions
• Always measure when tires are cold (vehicle hasn’t been driven for at least 3 hours)
• Consider seasonal adjustments—slightly lower in winter, as recommended in your manual
• Invest in a quality digital pressure gauge for accuracy

Rotation Schedules for Even Wear

The S4’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power differently than front or rear-wheel drive vehicles, affecting tire wear patterns:

• Rotate your tires every 5,000-7,000 miles
• Follow a modified cross rotation pattern specific to AWD vehicles
• Consider having this done during oil changes to maintain a regular schedule
• Document each rotation to track wear patterns over time

Alignment Considerations for the Performance-Minded

The S4’s sport-tuned suspension requires precise alignment to deliver its signature handling:

• Schedule alignment checks annually or after hitting significant potholes
• Pay special attention to camber settings, which affect cornering performance
• Consider a performance alignment if you participate in track days or autocross events
• Be aware that lowered S4s may require specialized alignment specifications

Reading Wear Patterns: Your Tires Are Talking

Your S4’s tires provide valuable feedback about your vehicle’s condition:

• Center wear indicates overinflation
• Edge wear suggests underinflation
• Inner edge wear often points to negative camber or alignment issues
• Scalloped or cupped wear may indicate suspension component wear
• Feathered edges typically suggest toe alignment problems

Seasonal Storage Considerations

For S4 owners with dedicated summer and winter sets:

• Store tires in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Consider tire cradles rather than stacking to prevent deformation
• Maintain some air pressure during storage (about 20 PSI)
• Clean thoroughly before storage to prevent rubber degradation from road chemicals

Performance Driving Impact

The S4’s capabilities may tempt spirited driving, which accelerates tire wear:

• Allow tires to properly warm up before aggressive cornering
• Monitor temperatures after hard driving sessions
• Consider tire pressure adjustments for track days (usually 2-4 PSI higher when hot)
• Inspect for unusual wear or damage after performance driving events

Maintaining your Audi S4’s tires properly not only saves money in the long run but ensures your vehicle delivers the performance, safety, and driving experience that made you choose this exceptional sports sedan in the first place.

Frequently Asked Questions