While the mechanicals scream performance, the exterior doesn't. If it weren't for the traditional S4 badges, one might mistake the S4 for a run-of-the-mill 2009 A4. Most of the styling tweaks seen on the A4, including a new front fascia, tight body lines, and LED daytime running lamps, are carried over to the S4. One might notice the standard 18- or optional 19-inch wheels, but they'll see the most change from the rear. Those left in the S4's dust will catch a glimpse of quad exhaust tips (all chromed), a slightly taller decklid spoiler, and LED taillights, patterned after those on the R8.
That's just as well; we'd prefer the S4 to be more go than show. Luckily, preliminary numbers seem to confirm our wishes: Audi says the S4 sedan moves from naught to 62 mph in a scant 5.1 seconds, while the Avant wagon is only one-tenth of a second slower. Both have an electronically-limited top-end of 155 mph - that's plenty fast, but we wouldn't be surprised if tuning firms across Germany are furiously working on how to crack Audi's programming.
Though the S4 will appear in European showrooms this spring, it won't arrive in North America until the fall of 2009. When it does, expect it to show up only in sedan form (Audi can't build a business case for the Avant), wearing a sticker price similar to the 2008 S4 (approximately $48,000).