Sometime in the next couple of months, Audi will release official details on the next S8—the sportiest version of its excellent, comparo-winning A8 flagship—but here are the latest photos of a prototype testing in Death Valley (U.S.), and we also know much about what to expect.

The new S8 drops its predecessor’s naturally aspirated, 450-hp, 398-lb-ft V-10 in favor of a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8. The new engine, however, will have even more power and should also offer a hefty jump in torque, as well. The V-8 will be shared not only with the upcoming S6 and S7, but also with an entry-level version of the latest Bentley Continental GT, and should make around 500 hp in the S8. That should be plenty to shove the big Audi to its governed top speed of 155 mph with ease. Ungoverned, we’re told that the S8 could reach over 185 mph, and that Audi might offer the option to raise the governor to let the big sedan really go.

As before, the S8’s styling will be understated; it will be visually distinguished from lesser A8's mainly by its four exhaust tips and the S8 badging, although another obvious differentiator will become apparent when you push the accelerator to the floor. Paddle shifters will be standard, just like in the regular A8 models. But the interior will be offered with sportier trimmings, including sport seats.

The S8’s competition will include the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, whose sporting credentials are derived mostly from straight-line performance and a rowdier exhaust sound than regular S-classes, the quirky Jaguar XJ Supersport, with its incredibly responsive, supercharged V-8, and the Porsche Panamera Turbo. With the S8 rounding into shape soon, we look forward to seeing how it stacks up.



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