Next Audi S5

Looks have received subtle revisions over the current car, but we know that under its bonnet the new S5 gets Audi’s new supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine in place of the current model’s 4.2-litre V8.

The new motor made its debut in the recently-revealed S4, and although its 329bhp is slightly down on old V8’s 339bhp, it has more mid-range torque and a broader powerband.

Audi claims the new S4 is 0.5 seconds quicker from 0-62mph than the V8, and if the S5 improves by the same margin then it will drop under 5 seconds for the benchmark acceleration test. Top speed will continue to be limited to 155mph.

The revised S5 will also benefit from the option of a seven-speed twin-clutch DSG transmission and the latest iteration of Audi’s Quattro four-wheel drive system, which uses a torque vectoring active rear differential to assist cornering.

Although the S5 is switching to V6 power, Audi insiders insist that the company is intending to use a V8 in the forthcoming RS5, which should make its debut in 2010.

Prices and final specs for the S5 will be announced ahead of its launch early next year.