From May 06 Automobile article:

Rearward Shift

Audi readies the next A4.

Launched in the United States for the 1996 model year, the Audi A4, with its lively character and polished look, started the brand's metamorphosis into an icon of performance and design.

The third-generation A4 should be similarly transformative when it debuts in early 2008. Revised powertrain packaging will allow the A4's longitudinally mounted engines to move four inches rearward, thanks to a more compact clutch differential. The engine lineup will remain the same (with a bit more power): a 210-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four; a 265-hp, 3.2-liter V-6; and, in the S4, a 4.2-liter V-8 making 350 hp. Each will come with a choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed version of Audi's DSG transmission. The next A4 also gets a new four-link front suspension, a revised rear setup, and a 60 percent rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel-drive system. These changes, together with more equally balanced weight distribution, should make for markedly sportier handling.

Another benefit is that the designers can trim the front overhang, vastly improving the proportions. Inside, the A4 will take many cues from the Roadjet concept seen at the Detroit show. Look for all manner of technogimmickry, including MMI, seats that self-adjust based on the occupant's height and weight, and an MP3 player incorporated into the ignition key. The car will be built on a new platform that will also be used for the A5 coupe/convertible and the next A6 and A8.

 

Note to Audi owners. The Automobile mag has two amazing pics, presumably of this future car? I'd request anyone who gets the mag who knows better, please let me know. I've admired Audi's for a long time, and by '08 it will be about time to trade in our TSX, and if the new A4 looks anything like is pictured in the mag, I'm sold!

 

Article: http://www.automobilemag.com/feature..._2008_audi_a4/

 

that is the rs4 414bhp behemoth.
do a search of topgear and fith gear torrents for last year and this year. there two good reviews of that .

the next a4 will be a b8 chassis, we will move from the current b6/b7 8e chassis into a new one. Right now the 2.0tfsi,3.2,4.2 can all be found in the b7 line. They are all good engines.

 

That reminds me of the Top Gear episode when Clarkson took the RS4 out for a drive and mentioned that the engine was mounted " in front of the headlamps."

 

you guys think this will just be available on the new a6's