As the era of screaming, thirsty, V8-powered cars continues to ominously draw to a close, it now looks like the next generation Audi RS4 will be another hearse in the 8-cylinder funeral convoy. According to Car and Driver, sources at Audi have confirmed the upcoming RS4 will do away with the current generation's 4.2-liter, 450 horsepower V8 engine. What will replace it? Nothing is confirmed just yet, but Audi will likely shoot to out-power the BMW M3 and M4's 430hp 3.0-liter straight six.

With a 3.0-liter turbo V6 in a selection of S cars, Audi is likely to add an additional turbocharger, upping power to compete with AMG and M competitors. If it does as well with its six-cylinder offering as it has done in the S4 and S5, the new RS4 should make enough power to keep enthusiasts happy, while combining sufficient fuel-efficiency and emissions ratings to keep the European authorities satisfied. If the turbos are as good as the V8 they replace, the RS4 will continue to be a top pick for sleeper-car madness.