Audi will soon be slipping another model into its lineup and I’m not talking about the upcoming Q3. Called the A7 it’s designed to compete in the “four-door coupe” market segment against other sporty luxury cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLS and the Porsche Panamera. Expect to see it hit the streets sometime next year as a 2011 model. Hit the jump for more info.

Drivetrain configurations are very diverse but many choices will be similar to options available on the current Audi A6. Starting with a 2.8 liter V6 engine with 204 horsepower for the base model, a 3.0 liter supercharged V6 engine with around 300 horsepower is the next step up. An electric hybrid or a diesel powered variant for the A7 is planned, although it’s unclear which direction they will go in.

As you probably guessed, there will be an S version and a RS version [Ed Note: YES!]. The S7 will be powered by a 4.0 liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that kicks out a bit under 400 horsepower. Finally, the range topping RS7 will have a 5.0 liter twin turbocharged V10 engine from the RS6, which is rated at 600 horsepower. However, the RS version is not planned to be released until at least two years after the S7 drops, you we have to wait a bit [Ed Note: DRAT!].

Of course, power goes to ground via Audi’s Quattro AWD system. Transmission choices are also numerous; lower trim levels will pick between a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic. A seven-speed dual clutch transmission is planned for the more expensive models and they have neglected to mention if you’ll be able to get the S and RS models with a traditional stick shift. Judging by current Audi traditions, the S should probably get the manual, and hte RS7 probably won’t. [Source: Audi]