Audi has revamped its top of the range S4 and S4 Avant, giving it a more athletic look and a completely redesigned V6 engine which offers improved performance and efficiency.

First shown to the public at this month's Paris Motor Show, the three-litre V6 with direct fuel injection and mechanical turbocharging, delivers 245 kW/333 hp.

Acceleration of the sedan from zero to 100 km/h is listed at 5.1 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 9.7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. The top speed is electronically regulated at 250 km/h.

The "T" in the 3.0's TFSI no longer merely stands for "turbo", but for the concept of supercharging in general. In conjunction with direct injection, it is far superior to twin turbochargers, both in terms of packaging and of starting performance and responsiveness, according to Audi.

The seven-speed S tronic transmission is linked with an intelligent control system that improves fuel economy in automatic mode.

The exterior design modifications include the aluminium-look exterior mirrors, 18-inch S-design light-alloy wheels, the side rocker panels, a restrained spoiler at the rear and the quadruple exhaust system. The xenon-plus headlights with daytime running lights and the rear lights are further distinctive touches.

Interior features include sports seats with electric lumbar supports and pull-out thigh supports. The instrument panel features grey dials with white needles. They also bear the S4 emblems, as do the multifunctional sport steering wheel and the key. The interior is in black, with brushed aluminum inlays. Carbon and birch wood inlays are also available, as are stainless steel mesh inlays.

The sales start in Germany is scheduled for March 2009. Prices have not yet been announced.