Audi S4 and S5 Sportback replacement spied testing

The successor to the Audi S4 and S5 Sportback has been spied undergoing winter testing in Europe, ahead of a major branding shift.

Audi is restructuring its naming conventions, with future combustion-powered models to use odd numbers, while even-numbered vehicles will be electric only.

As such, the A4 sedan – as well as its S4 and RS4 performance grades – will become the A5, S5 and RS5 respectively.

Based on spy photos, it appears there won’t be separate sedan and Sportback body styles, with just one “three-box” body style to accompany the next-generation wagon.

Audi S4 and S5 Sportback replacement spied testing

These latest spy pictures reportedly show the ‘mid-range’ S5, denoted by its large black honeycomb grille and quad exhaust tips – providing a more aggressive appearance than the upcoming A5 Avant wagon spied in November 2023.

Compared to the current S5 Sportback, it appears there is greater separation between the grille and lower radiator intake, while the daytime running light signature has also changed.

It’s likely the existing S4 and S5’s turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine will carry across to the new model, tipped to add 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance to meet Europe’s ever-tightening emissions regulations – and potentially provide a boost to the current 260kW/500Nm outputs.

European versions are powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, which produces 251kW and 700Nm, though this powertrain has never been offered in Australian-delivered S4s or S5s.

The new-generation Audi S5 is expected to be revealed this year, with an Australian launch to follow six to 12 months after, given previous timings.

MORE: Everything Audi S4 • S5