Spy Shots: 2009 Audi S4 caught undisguised

With Audi’s new A4 range officialy released, attention now turns to the performance S range, which should be making its arrival by mid next year. These latest spy shots reveal a completely undisguised prototype of the new car, which can clearly be seen sporting a new set of bumpers and a small bootlid spoiler. The only other visual clue that this is in fact the new S4 is the quad exhaust tailpipes residing in the rear diffuser.

Power will come from the familiar 4.2L FSI V8 engine, but expect to see slightly more than the 340hp (253kW) found in the current car. Customers will be able to choose between either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, and drive will be sent to all four wheels via quattro AWD as standard. Audi may also debut its new sport differential in the S4, a new system that can send torque to the individual rear wheels almost instantly. This should see handling improve dramatically over the current car.

The next stop is the new RS4, which we're likely to see towards the end of next year. The previous model surprised everyone with its handling and power characteristics and the new model should be more of the same.

Check out our full gallery after the jump or click here to read up on the new A4 sedan.