The new S4 range, based on the recently launched B8 model Audi A4, will feature a brand new supercharged V6 engine in place of the former’s naturally aspirated V8. The new supercharged mill has been given the TFSI moniker, Volkswagen Group’s naming practice for its forced-induction and direct-injected engines, and will eventually feature in several other Audi models including the facelifted Audi A6.

Supercharged and intercooled V6 to replace V8
However, its most potent form will be in the new S4 where it will deliver a peak output of 257kW from its 3.0L displacement – up from 253kW for the old 4.2L V8. Audi engineers have gone with an Eaton roots-type supercharger and a front-mount intercooler, picked because of the available power at lower revs than a comparable turbocharger.

Another benefit is the smaller packaging of the supercharger design, which allows it to fit neatly between the two cylinder banks of the V6 engine.

The other key introduction is a new seven-speed dual-clutch ‘S tronic’ gearbox. At 142kg, the advanced gearbox is 40kg heavier than the previous manual but straight line performance will likely improve since the unit manages shifts in less than 50ms - much quicker than any human.

New dual-clutch gearbox guarantees quick acceleration
The weight gain is also offset by savings in other areas, including a lighter engine and more aluminium used in the new car’s construction compared with previous generations. Expect to see 0-100km/h times of less than six seconds and an electronically controlled top speed of 250km/h.

As these prototypes reveal, the exterior design is essentially complete with only minor elements differentiating the performance S range from its lesser cousins. Key features include quad exhaust pipes, new side sills, polished aluminium side mirrors and a slightly revised grille. The S4 models also get more aggressive bumpers and both xenon and LED daytime running lights fitted as standard.

Audi S4 sedan and Avant spy shots

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