Spy Shots: 2012 Audi S7 caught, but what’s under the hood?

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Performance, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Audi, Luxury

2012 Audi S7 – Click above for high-res image gallery

When this first batch of spy shots landed in our inbox, we didn’t think too much about them. It’s an Audi A7 with the optional S Line bodykit. Big whoop. However, the rear view tells a different tale. Specifically, the quad-tipped exhaust system.

What we’re looking at is the first Audi S7 prototype which, according to earlier reports, could debut as early as next week at the Paris Motor Show.

If it does, we can expect a slightly lower ride height over the standard A7, upgraded brakes, wheels and tires, and a set of deeply bolstered buckets up front. But what’s under the hood?

Initial speculation suggested that the 4.2-liter FSI V8 found in the Audi R8 could be the engine of choice, but the latest intel floating around involves a new twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 outputting upwards of 450 horsepower and a healthy amount of torque.

Hopefully, all will be revealed in just over a week, but before then, scope out the S7 mule in the gallery below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 Audi S7