Autocar:The forthcoming Audi RS5 will use an updated version of the last RS4’s 4.2-litre V8, retuned to give more power with fewer emissions.
I really can’t see the RS5 having a naturally-aspirated “updated” RS4 motor. The RS4 was rated at 414 bhp and approximately 100bhp per litre. To my mind 450bhp as claimed would be far too peaky and change the nature of the car. The naturally-aspirated BMW M-series always gave c100bhp per litre.
The V8 S5 gave 350bhp. I have one of these, with the 6-speed auto, and it is a fabulous car. It isn’t a competitor to the M3. But the M3 wasn’t on my list anyway.
In my view, anything over the rating of the RS4 motor will require forced-induction. A twin-turbo would seem the most likely way forward. Lower-revving (7k rather than 8K) with more torque than the RS4. This would be a separate development, not an updating of the RS4 motor.
I also would be surprised if the double-clutch S-Tronic gearbox is used. As far as I'm aware, the S-Tronic hasn’t been used with a V8 because of torque limits. I may be wrong, but I would expect an auto box.