Audi R8 Could Get V6, Diesel Powertrains
The future of the Audi R8 is bright thanks to its new platform.
The second-generation exotic will make its debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, but its engineers are already excited about what its future might hold. The German automaker plans to offer more variants than ever before and ideas on the board include a V6-powered model, a diesel-powered model and a GT3-spec race car. According to R8 technical lead Roland Schala, the R8’s new platform that is shared with the Lamborghini Huracan offers numerous possibilities thanks to the versatility of the production line.
SEE ALSO: 2016 Audi R8 Specs Released, Only V10 Available at Launch
At launch, the R8 will initially only come with a 5.2-liter V10 naturally-aspirated engine with either 540 hp or 610 hp but Schala told Top Gear that there’s a necessity for a smaller engine during the lifecycle of this generation’s R8. Schala even said that “the V6 is a perfect engine for this kind of car,” saying that the potential could be over 400 hp even with a smaller powerplant. And while a diesel variant is a possibility, the company isn’t sure the R8 needs more torque and is concerned about the added weight an oil burner would bring.
Ultimately whether or not variants, including a plug-in hybrid, become a reality is based on customer demand. There will be another R8 e-tron prototype in the near future, hinting that Audi sure is interested in electrifying the sports car. As for a manual transmission, the car will launch with a dual-clutch transmission and nothing has been decided on whether a manual will be available in the future.
[Source: Top Gear]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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