Tumbo

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S3 – The Littlest S-Car
Though it never came Stateside, the previous S3 nonetheless has a cult following both here and abroad. Its hardware wasn’t much different than a higher-spec A3, but by the end of its run, the S3 shared the 225-hp 1.8T from the Audi TT, along with Avus wheels (like the S4, S6 and S8) and unique body and interior pieces.

Today, a story by the Netherlands-based Autovisie.nl claims that Audi Netherlands has confirmed a replacement to the S3. That new model should debut at September’s Paris Auto show, according to the publication.

Assuming Audi were to build a new S3, it’s safe to expect the typical modern S-car styling cues. The Le Mans Concept-inspired wheels are a likely choice, as is the S-line body kit. Audi’s new gray and chrome S-grille with S3 badge and another badge at the rear would set it off from run-of-the-mill S3s.

The website claimed the S3’s engine would be a 2.0T FSI engine pushing 260 hp and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Where that slots against the 250 hp A3 3.2 remains to be seen.

Another potential power source for the A3 could be the larger displacement 3.6-liter V6 that will first see production this Spring in the Q7. Rumors are that this engine is good for nearly 300 hp when equipped with FSI, giving a little more leg room for a proposed top-end S3.

Then again, the S3 may not be top-end as Autovisie.nl also is fanning the flames of the RS 3 rumor that seems to surface from time to time. Though possible, the RS 3 is far from confirmed.




S4 – Subtle Upgrades for a Stalwart
No car waves the flag for the S-brand as much as the S4. Sure, the S8 had its limelight in ‘Ronin’, but the S4 is the top-selling S-model in the range and enjoys a very loyal following and a very healthy aftermarket.

Will the car evolve in 2007? Nobody at Audi is saying for sure, but do the math and you can envision how the next evolution of the car will go.

Wheels are a no-brainer. The new S4 Cabriolet uses the wheel destined to become signature to the S-brand, as it has appeared on the S8 as well. They’ll likely migrate to the sedan and the Avant in the following model year.

However, changes to the S4 might not be limited to just looks. A source at Audi AG told us that all 4.2-liter V8s would eventually move to FSI as with the Q7. If that’s so, then it’s reasonable to assume that the S4’s current power ratings of 344 bhp and 410 Nm (302 lb-ft) would rise with the addition of FSI.

The FSI version of the V8 found in the Q7 is rated at 350 bhp and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft), well below the power, but not the torque of the 420 bhp and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) FSI V8 in the RS 4. If the S4 V8 gets FSI, Audi could dial back the torque needed in the heavier Q7 and dial in a few more ponies, improving on the car, but still slotting it well below the high-revving RS 4. Time will tell.




S6 – Middleweight with Big Displacement
The North American International Auto Show in a little over a week will mark the debut of the S6 sedan and Avant. As we’ve reported over the last few months, the car will share the V10 from the S8 with slightly less power. It will likely share body styling with the A6 S-line, while wheel and grille designs may mimic the S8 and S4 Cabriolet shown this past fall.

It’s possible that the S6 could appear on the Audi stand at the Los Angeles Auto Show as early as this week. However, Audi is not listed on the LA Auto Show’s media day schedule, so we’d bet on a Michigan launch.




S8 – The Big S-car Rides Again
Those with an extremely short attention span might say the S8 is old news. It was first shown in Tokyo in early November 2005, and we had a chance to test it later that month in Germany. Its FSI-powered version of the V10 first seen in the Lamborghini Gallardo is a symphony in cylinders. Aggressive body styling as dictated by American Audi dealers augments the largest Audi’s handsome looks.

The S8 will make its North American debut tomorrow at the Los Angeles Auto Show and go into production by late summer to early fall of this year.

Curb Zone

 

Just_me

ok 260hp for S3

Hypersonic

Well isn't that interesting, they're accrediting the American Audi dealers with the S8's looks - do you think that is correct? - if so, then let the American dealers design the next model - LOL- the S8 is awesome!!

Tumbo

As you could read. It's only still rumours.

Just_me

Well I think the rumours are correct.

Yannis

I don't want to see S3 having the same rims with RS4. Surely they can design another wheel for it.

Iceman

The wheels on this S3 are the same like the S8 rims, not RS4.

wfg, Hans.

Curb Zone