Audi is downsizing their engines to increase mileage.

[kevingalls]

[caption id="attachment_829" align="alignnone" width="620" caption="2010 Audi S4"][/caption] Back in 2004, Audi's 4.2-liter 340 horsepower V8 motor found in the Audi S4 was named one of the 10 best engines by Ward's Auto, for 3 years. We had the opportunity to throw it around city traffic for a week, and were astounded at the power, grunt, and drivability. The power band was excellent, and although its weight and balance caused a bit of understeer, we were very confident in the turns.

With such a great powertrain, why would Audi abandon it? 2010 has shown itself to be the year of innovations in efficiency. We are seeing more hybrids, electric vehicles being released, and even Porsche is getting on board with alternative fuels. That S4's 4.2-liter V8 was getting around 15 miles per gallon in our city driving. It makes sense, then that Audi has now equipped the S4 with a new V6 which gets 27% better fuel economy. The amazing part is that it's actually quicker than the V8, and better balanced as well.

[caption id="attachment_830" align="alignnone" width="620" caption="2010 Audi S4 goes back to a V6, while gaining performance"][/caption] As a lover of small, efficient cars I'm excited at the direction they're taking. The $50k's are a major market for german sports sedan makers. The BMW M3 and Mercedes' C63 AMG are both higher priced but fighting for the same market of young professionals who demand quality, luxury, and performance. We've heard rumors that the next generation M3 will go back to a 6 cylinder, but with twin-turbos. The German sport touring makers are very market driven, and if people are clamoring for more fuel-efficient vehicles, that's exactly what they can expect to see. We'll keep you updated on the next BMW M3.