The S4 is a performance-oriented version of the A4 sedan, which debuted in its latest iteration in late 2008. The new S4 lineup does not include a convertible, since the A4 drop-top is being phased out in favor of a yet-to-be-revealed A5 convertible.

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The S4 is built around a redesigned 3.0-liter TFSI engine. The mill generates 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, with the help of a supercharger. The sedan sprints to 62 mph in just 5.1 seconds.

The engine-driven belt that powers the mechanical charger provides full thrust right from idling speed. The 3.0 TFSI delivers its maximum torque at 2,500 rpm and maintains this constantly until 4,850 rpm. In fourth gear, the vehicle accelerates from 50 to 75 mph in just 4.4 seconds. Thanks to the extremely short gas paths V6 is said to feel even more responsive than a naturally-aspirated equivalent.

Performance stats aren't the only figures improved with the new S4. Fuel economy has also increased a whopping 26 percent. The car achieves approximately 24 miles per gallon, according to Audi.

Customers can choose between a regular six-speed manual gearbox, or a seven-speed "S-Tronic" dual-clutch transmission. The DSG can be operated in a manual mode via paddles, or in an automated mode. With its wide gear ratio spread of 8.0:1, the seven-speed gearbox promises to exploit the increased power and torque of the 3.0 TFSI.

The quattro all-wheel-drive system 40 percent of its torque to the front wheels and 60 percent to the rear wheels, under normal conditions. It can vary distribution within fractions of a second as needed, with as much as 100 percent of the power going to either the front or rear.

The S-Tronic transmission is also complemented by Audi's Drive Select feature, which enables the driver to select between "comfort," "auto" or "dynamic" modes. These modes affect shift speed, throttle response, and the speed-sensitive steering. If the vehicle is equipped with the MMI operating system, a fourth mode is available which the driver can program according to his or her own preferences.

Last but not least among the mechanical changes is a new rear differential controlled by an array of sensors and a high-speed computer. It can purportedly redirect power as needed in under 100 milliseconds.

A sport new interior, xenon headlights, a more aggressive body kit, and 18-inch wheels are all standard. Adaptive cruise control, Bang & Olufsen audio, and MMI are optional.