Audi R8 set to return as a PHEV with Lambo twin-turbo V8

The new R8 will use the same aluminium spaceframe structure used by the Temerario. It uses 50% fewer components than the earlier Huracán and second-generation R8.

The Audi R8 is one of the most loved supercars by enthusiasts worldwide. It was in production between 2006 and 2024 and sold 45,949 units over two generations.

While the original R8 came with a 4.2 TFSI, it later got the 5.2 litre NA V10 from the Lamborghini Gallardo. The second-gen car came in 2015, sharing its underpinnings and powertrain with the Lamborghini Huracan.

Now the third-gen R8 is all set to see the light of day, and just like its predecessors, it is expected to use the drivetrain, key structural elements, electronics and chassis of the Temerario, the Huracan successor, which was launched last year. Power will come from a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 paired with three electric motors. The combined output stands at 907 BHP, and a rechargeable 3.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack offers electric-only driving of approx 10 km. A more powerful 1000 BHP version is also rumoured to be in the works.

In the Temerario, two motors are mounted on the front axle to create a four-wheel-drive setup. The third motor is positioned between the V8 and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox to act as a starter generator and offer regenerative braking. The new R8 is expected to have the same setup.

The new R8 will use the same aluminium spaceframe structure used by the Temerario. It uses 50% fewer components than the earlier Huracán and second-generation R8, along with an 80% reduction in welds. It is also claimed to bring a 25% increase in stiffness over the older spaceframe.

The next-gen R8 is expected to have a 0 to 100 kph timing of under 3.0 seconds, with a top speed close to the Temerario’s 338 kph. These figures will make it the most powerful and fastest Audi to date, beating the fully electric RS E-Tron GT Performance.

The adoption of the plug-in hybrid tech will allow Audi to showcase its electrification prowess, similar to what Mercedes-AMG and Porsche have done with the GT and 911 respectively. As such, the R8 e-tron nameplate is being considered.

The decision to revive the R8 is reportedly down to an agreement reached between the Audi board and its Volkswagen Group parent on how the brand can transition to an all-electric line-up. Audi is said to use this tech in future ICE models and expand its plug-in hybrid portfolio.

The new R8 is expected to be produced at Audi’s Böllinger Höfe facility in Germany, the same site as its predecessors. Market launch is slated for 2027 and it is expected to come in Coupe and Spider body styles.

Source: Autocar UK