The Audi R8 nameplate may be brought back featuring a new plug-in hybrid powertrain from Lamborghini, as per our sister publication Autocar UK. This new R8 is reportedly set for an international launch in 2027; Audi rolled off the last R8 supercar from its production line in 2024.
- R8 was on sale with V8 and V10 engines previously
- Both coupe and cabriolet body styles could be offered upon launch
- Lamborghini Temerario's V8 engine has a 10,000rpm redline
Development of the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-AMG GT rival has progressed beyond the feasibility stage and is being backed by Gernot Dollner, Audi AG chairman. Production will likely happen at Audi’s Bollinger Hofe facility in Germany, where the previous R8 models were manufactured.
New Audi R8 engine details
Lamborghini Temerario V8 hybrid engine.
For the third-generation R8, Audi is expected to borrow a 920hp-4-litre V8 PHEV powertrain from the Lamborghini Temerario. The Lamborghini V8 on its own makes 800hp and the rest is generated by three axial-flux electric motors paired with a 3.8kWh rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The electric range is limited to 9.65km. As for the 0-100kph sprint time, it is 2.7 seconds.
Electric motors enable 4WD
In the Temerario, two electric motors are mounted on the front axle and enable a four-wheel drive (4WD) setup. The third electric motor is placed between the V8 engine and the dual-clutch transmission to act as a starter generator and also recover energy under braking.
Over 1,000hp R8 Performance may be on the cards
Interestingly, more powerful Temerario models making over 1,000hp may launch in 2027 and share their powertrains with the Audi R8 Performance (an extreme version of the standard R8). With such a four-digit power figure, the R8 Performance will be the most powerful and fastest road-going Audi to date. At present, the Audi e-tron GT RS holds the title.
Old Audi R8 engine and spaceframe details
Old Audi R8 V8 engine.
From its global debut in 2006 to 2024, the R8 was offered with either a V8 or V10 engine (both naturally aspirated) which were known to be extremely rev-happy. As the Lamborghini’s flat-plane crank V8 develops its peak power between 9,000rpm and 9,750rpm with a 10,000rpm redline, a similar sound experience to the previous R8 powerplants is expected.
25 percent stronger spaceframe
Like its predecessors, which shared platforms with the Lamborghini Gallardo and Huracan, the next-gen Audi R8 will use Temerario's aluminium spaceframe with increased torsional stiffness by 25 percent. This frame is claimed to be tougher despite using half as many structural components over the previous spaceframe.
Also, see:
2013 Audi R8 V10 review, test drive