HARD SHOULDER:Audi is set to continue its product offensive with two larger models undergoing tests in preparation for production.
First up will the all-new Audi A7, due to go on sale late next year. The Mercedes CLS-rivalling coupé was spotted undergoing dynamic testing prior to its launch. The A7 will be based on the same platform as the new A8 - essentially a stretched version of the A5's underpinnings.
Six engines will be available from launch: a trio of V6 diesels, including an all-new 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged unit, as well as a V8 and supercharged V6 petrol powerplants. Expect to see an RS7 version, featuring a 600bhp-plus version of the twin-turbo V10 from the RS6.
Meanwhile testing on the A8 replacement continues apace, which is expected to arrive until 2010.
Under the new sheet metal will be an extended version of the modular platform used in the A4, but expect to see more exotic materials such as aluminium and magnesium improve dynamics.
The engine line-up will likely mirror the current range, starting with a 2.8-litre petrol V6 and topping out 4.2-litre V8 FSI and possibly the carmaker's new 6.0-litre V12 TDI diesel.