After ditching the 2.7L V6 twin-turbocharged Audi S4 in ’03 for a 4.2L V8, Audi is finally returning to forced induction for next year’s new S4 and S4 Avant.

The 2.7T was known to be one of the most tunable motors in the European market as shown by high-horsepower examples like the eurotuner GP champions of ’06 and ’07.
The new S4 will receive a potent 333hp, 324.5 ft-lb 3.0L V6 with direct fuel injection and a supercharger. The factory claims it will accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 5.1sec and achieve 24.25 mpg. Of course, it wouldn’t be an Audi without its Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, plus the addition of sport suspension for great off-the-lot handling. Transmission options will include a seven-speed S tronic or six-speed manual. There’s also an option for a sport differential which is said to distribute the torque effectively between the rear wheels.

Set to unveil at the Paris Auto Show between October 2 to 19, the new S4 should be a sure hit for the European and US markets.

The US won't see the Avant right away but the '10 sedan should be on sale in the Fall of '09. Pricing will be similar to the current S4 model.