The next generation Audi S4 Avant makes another appearance for our spy photographers stationed around the world. This camo-wrapped prototype was caught on a back street in Germany, not far from the Nurburgring. From what we can see, there is still very little evaluation being done on the new model.
The placeholder taillights at the rear are clearly visible even to an untrained observer, protruding under the slanted rear window. Lower your gaze a little further, and you’ll see the wires that connect to a pair of exhaust ends on the left side of the car. The nature of the wire is unknown, it could be emission, sound or other parameters testing. Thread the wire to the back in the bottom of the hatch, where there must be plenty of room for the computer or other testing equipment to hide.
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Compared to our previous S4 Avant sightings, this prototype is not burdened with test equipment on its wheels. As such, the rather basic five-spoke rims in black offer a very clear view of the massive rear brakes. At first glance, one might wonder if we’re actually seeing the RS4 model. Other styling cues, notably the lack of larger angular vents on the face, suggest this is a tamer version. While our attention is focused on the face, we feel the new headlights will only be slightly slimmer. The grille will also stretch a bit wider, but the conclusion is that the new S4 will be easy to spot as an Audi.
Our spy sources believe the current turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine will be carried over to the new model, although it could get hybrid assistance in the process. In its current form, the S4 produces 349 horsepower (260 kilowatts) and 369 pound-feet (500 Newton-meters) of torque. Naturally, that applies to all four wheels, but a simple hybrid boost can boost output to close to 400 hp.
As mentioned at the start of this article, there is still a way ahead before we get a full reveal on the new S4. We expect it to debut at some point in 2023 – possibly in the first half of the year – launching as the 2024 model.
