2025 Audi S4 vs 2026 BMW M2
Comparison Overview
Deciding between thrilling daily usability and raw track-day performance is a common sticking point when cross-shopping premium sports sedans against dedicated coupes. The 2025 Audi S4 offers a highly competent, all-weather performance package at a significantly lower entry point, starting at $54,900 compared to the 2026 BMW M2's steep $68,200 MSRP—a difference of $13,300. While the M2 boasts a massive 473 hp advantage over the S4's 349 hp, the Audi counters with superior efficiency, netting a 24 MPG combined rating versus the M2's 19 MPG. Furthermore, the S4’s standard all-wheel drive and slightly longer 187.5-inch body suggest better commuter predictability than the RWD M2. However, if you prioritize sheer power output and the engagement of a 6-speed manual transmission, the M2 is the undeniable performance leader, despite its higher running costs.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Audi S4
The Audi S4 wins for commuting due to its more efficient 24 MPG combined rating and superior all-weather capability with standard all-wheel drive.
2025 Audi S4
The S4 is the better family option as it offers four doors and easier access, despite having slightly less cargo space (12 cu ft vs 13.8 cu ft).
2026 BMW M2
The BMW M2 is the choice for enthusiasts, delivering 473 hp and the visceral experience of a 6-speed manual transmission.
2025 Audi S4
The Audi S4 provides significantly better value by costing $13,300 less while delivering AWD and better fuel economy.
Choose the Audi S4 if...
- You prioritize saving money upfront, as the S4 has an MSRP of $54,900 versus the M2's $68,200.
- You need dependable, year-round traction provided by its standard all-wheel drive system.
- You seek better fuel economy, achieving 29 highway MPG compared to the M2's 23 highway MPG.
Choose the BMW M2 if...
- Maximum power is essential, as the M2 throws down 473 hp, significantly more than the S4's 349 hp.
- You strongly prefer the engagement and control offered by a traditional 6-speed manual transmission.
- You value slightly more ultimate cargo capacity (13.8 cu ft) in a smaller footprint (180.3 inches long).
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Audi S4 | BMW M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 187.5" | 180.3" |
| Width | 72.7" | 74.3" |
| Height | 56.2" | 55.2" |
| Wheelbase | 111.0" | 108.1" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | — |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Self-Leveling Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Integrated Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 2 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | — |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Blind Spot Monitor | — | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | — | ✓ |
| Brake Drying | — | ✓ |
| Rear Folding Headrests | — | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 3.0 L | 3.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | V6 | inline 6 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 349 hp @ 6300 rpm | 473 hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm | 406 lb-ft @ 2650 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 24 | 24 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | rear wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | — |
| Rear Differential Type | — | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (recommended) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 20/29 MPG | 16/23 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 24 MPG | 19 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 306.0/443.7 mi. | 219.2/315.1 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.3 gal. | 13.7 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | — |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | — |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | — |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | — |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Three Zone Climate Control | ✓ | — |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | ✓ | — |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | — | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.1 in | 14.9 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stereo Power | 180W | — |
| Speaker System | 10 | — |
| Subwoofer Count | 1 | — |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Android Auto (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Speaker Brand | — | Harman/Kardon |
| Surround Audio | — | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | — | 12 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 2 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass | 1st Row Power Glass |
| Remote Keyless Entry | ✓ | — |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Keyless Entry | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 37.3 in. | 38.1 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.3 in. | 41.8 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.9 in. | 55.9 in. |
| Seat Material: Leather/Sueded Microfiber | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | — |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | — |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Seat Massage Function | ✓ | — |
| Seat Material: Leather | — | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | — | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | — | 2 |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 37.4 in. | 34.7 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 35.7 in. | 32.2 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 54.5 in. | 51.7 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | — |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | — |
| Wheel Diameter | 19 in | — |
| Tire Type | Performance | Performance |
| Tire Size | ✓ | 285/30R |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | — |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | — |
| Wheel Finish | — | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | — | 20 x 10.5 in. |
Suspension
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Audi | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | — | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | — | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | — | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | — | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Audi S4 and 2026 BMW M2.
Is the 2026 BMW M2 significantly faster than the 2025 Audi S4?
Yes, the M2 is substantially quicker on paper, producing 473 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque compared to the S4's 349 hp and 369 lb-ft. This 124 hp advantage means the M2 will outperform the S4 in acceleration tests.
Which car is cheaper to run daily between the S4 and the M2?
The Audi S4 is definitely cheaper for daily driving, offering a combined fuel economy of 24 MPG versus the M2's 19 MPG. Additionally, the S4 requires 'recommended' premium fuel, while the M2 requires it, potentially leading to higher fueling costs.
Why does the BMW M2 cost $13,300 more than the Audi S4?
The price difference largely reflects the M2's specialized, higher-output powertrain and focus on track capability. The M2 is a dedicated, RWD performance coupe, whereas the S4 is a more mainstream, AWD performance sedan priced to be accessible to a broader audience.
Which vehicle is better if I often deal with snow or poor weather?
The 2025 Audi S4 is the clear winner here because it comes standard with an all-wheel drive system, which is much better suited for slippery conditions than the M2's rear-wheel drive setup.
Do these cars have similar dimensions for parking?
The Audi S4 is slightly longer at 187.5 inches, but the BMW M2 is significantly wider at 74.3 inches compared to the S4's 72.7 inches. Both are relatively compact performance vehicles, but the M2 is wider and shorter.
How do the transmissions compare in usability?
They are polar opposites: the S4 utilizes a smooth, 8-speed shiftable automatic ideal for traffic, while the M2 gives the driver full control with a row-your-own 6-speed manual transmission, offering a much more engaging but demanding experience.
More Premium Sedans ($50k-$80k)
View allVehicle Details
Compare More Vehicles
Use our interactive comparison tool to compare up to 4 vehicles at once
Open Comparison Tool