A new patent reveals Audi’s plans for a new hyper-efficient piston engine, which is planned to be as smooth as larger 6- and 8-cylinder engines. For more info see Fox News.
Another improvement (not an Audi patent) is the electrically driven turbocharger to be independent from exhaust gases. It allows spooling up much quicker and reduces the dreaded turbo lag. Audi plans the introduction for next year.