So the reports are confirmed that Audi is dropping the V8 in its S4 for a supercharged V6 to put out close to 350 hp.

CAR Online has uncovered details of the S4 at today’s launch of the twin-clutch S5; the S4 shares this S-tronic transmission and its extremely fast 200ms gearchanges. The S-tronic gearbox weighs 313 lbs - around 85 lbs more than the six-speed manual. However, performance is better with the twin-clutch S-tronic and emissions are lower as well.

As mentioned the new S4 is powered by a 3.0 Litre Supercharged V6 which sends power to all 4 wheels via the quattro all wheel drive system. Top speed again is limited to 155 mph and expect 0-60 times to be just under 6 seconds.

The S4 kicks off at the Paris Auto Show later this year and will be in European show rooms early 09, expect it in the U.S. Q2 or Q3 of 2009 as well.

The Audi RS4 won’t be out until late 2009 or early 2010 and should have shift times even faster than the 200ms that the new S-tronic gear box is capable of. According to Carmagazine.co.uk they can get the shift times down to 140-150 ms.

Audi plans to have their S4 compete with the 335i and their RS4 compete with the M3. Being that they are releasing their new series just after BMW, we’re expecting that they will outperform both models with their upcoming releases.

[Source: carmagazine.co.uk]