THE 2011 AUDI RS5 has been spied recently in near-production guise, undergoing testing ahead of a likely Frankfurt Motor Show debut next month.

The powertrain for the new performance coupe has not yet been revealed, but like the S5 before it - which is scheduled to switch to a supercharged V6 next year - the 2011 RS5 is expected to be powered by Audi’s 4.2 litre V8.

With the S5 currently developing 260kW, the RS5 would likely see the V8’s output increased to around 335kW (450hp), paired with Audi’s recently updated S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox.

Despite the power boost the 4.2 litre V8 might gain, speculation in the media has seen the RS6’s V10 touted as a possible engine option.

However, with the RS5 needing to compete on price with the likes of the current-generation BMW M3 and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, the V10 may prove too costly an option.

Recent spy photos have also revealed that the 2011 RS5 will feature an active rear spoiler, similar to that found on the Audi R8.

The wing has been designed to deploy at a certain speed, with an in-dash button giving the driver the option of keeping the wing in its upright position.

GALLERY » 2011 Audi RS5 Spy Photos