We’ve caught the upcoming Audi S4 performance model testing out on the Nürburgring for the very first time.

It will be the second fastest and more powerful model in the next A4 range behind the RS4 that will rival the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, with the S4 to go up against the newly revealed 362hp (367PS) Mercedes C450 AMG 4MATIC Sport and the 340PS (335hp) Jaguar XE S.

It’s expected that the current S4’s 3.0-liter supercharged V6 will roll into the new model, possibly gaining a 20 to 30hp boost to deliver around 360hp, with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system and s-tronic twin-clutch transmission coming in as standard. Upgraded suspension and brake components will help drivers get the most out of the supercharged unit under the hood.

As with the regular A4s, the sported-up S4 will shed some pounds over its predecessor thanks in part to the new MLB platform that utilizes a mixture of aluminum and steel.

It’s hard to tell with the heavy camouflage on this prototype, but aside from the “S” series trademark quad-pipes at the back, the S4 will get deeper bumpers on both ends, aluminum-effect housings for the door mirrors, side skirts, and its own version of Audi’s six-point grille.

We’ll see both the A4 and S5 models at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, if not earlier online.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

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