Audi Confirms Next-Gen RS4 Will Get A Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain

Audi Sport has yet to reveal the facelifted version of the current-gen RS4 Avant, but managing director Oliver Hoffman has no problem talking about the next generation model, which isn’t due until early in the next decade.

Hoffman confirmed to Autocar that the next-gen RS4 will switch to a plug-in hybrid powertrain, as Audi Sport plans to make all its models electrified in the future.

That strategy starts with the new RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback, both of which come with a 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, a first for an Audi RS model.

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Audi Sport is in the middle of expanding its range, with the facelifted current-gen RS4 and new RS Q3 set for launch before the end of the year, joining the TT RS, RS3, RS5 and the aforementioned RS6 and RS7 Sportback. There’s even an RS Q8 coming out soon.

As for the current generation RS4, it is expected to retain its twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 in the upcoming facelift. We don’t know if it will get a power boost over the 444 HP (450 PS) it makes in its current form, that is already good enough for a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 4.1 seconds and a 174 mph (280 km/h) top speed.

Finally, Hoffman also confirmed that the next R8 will employ an electrified powertrain, but didn’t specify whether it’s going to be a hybrid or a full-electric. According to the publication, the latter is the most probable option, as Audi allegedly favors the idea of an all-electric R8 to join the E-Tron GT in their range.