When Audi presented the R8 TDI Le Mans concept car powered by a V12 diesel in 2008, everyone thought it would be followed by a production model. However, that never happen, but the second generation R8 might get a high-performance diesel engine.
The upcoming R8 will share its hardware with the Lamborghini Huracán, with the MSS (modular sports car system) architecture featuring a material mix of aluminum and carbon fiber.
The engine lineup will be similar to the current one, with one notable exception. According to Automobile Magazine, while the 4.2-liter V8 petrol will be replaced by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 producing 460 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque, the 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 will be carried over, with output expected to be around 540hp and 398 lb-ft (539 Nm). However, the gated six-speed stick shift will be replaced by a 7sp S Tronic dual clutch auto.
Additionally, Audi will also fit a 600hp and 413 lb-ft (559Nm) version of the V10 engine in the R8 V10 Plus model, which will only be available as a coupe and not as a Spyder, due to launch in 2016. The report says there will also be an R8 e-Tron electric model which promises a range of 300 miles (483 km).
The big news is that Audi will launch an R8 TDI sometime in 2017, fulfilling the wish of VW Group boss Ferdinand Piech. The publication says that the diesel-powered R8 could be powered by a tuned version of the current 4.0-liter turbo diesel V8 or a 5.0-liter V10 turbo diesel, currently being developed for use in future Bentley cars.
By Dan Mihalascu
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