2012 Audi S7 spied on the Nurburgring

The car appears to be wearing no camouflaging once again and could be in its production guise, although details such as the alloy wheels might be different on the eventual model to hit the showrooms.

There's been no word on the S7's definite engine specifications yet, reports say it will feature a new 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 unit producing upwards of 330kW. This will be the same unit that will be used on upcoming Bentley models.

Another possible engine set for the S7 is the Audi R8 naturally-aspirated 4.2-litre V8, producing around the same power. Either way, acceleration from 0-100km/h is likely to be around the five-second range.

Distinct exterior highlights over the normal Audi A7 include a sporty bodykit including front and rear bumper bar extensions, a more aggressive front apron, grille and venting layout, as well as a quad-tailpipe rear-diffuser setup.

The 2012 Audi S7 is set to be publically unveiled at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show in September. We'll keep you up-to-date.

In the meantime, what four-door grand tourer would you chose if money were no object? The Porsche Panamera S? An Aston Martin Rapide perhaps? Or something a little more subtle like this Audi S7?

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