- Audi is reportedly working on a third generation of the R8 that could debut in late 2027.
- The supercar might borrow its PHEV powertrain and chassis from the Lamborghini Temerario.
- The most powerful Audi ever is expected to make around 1,000 hp from an electrified twin-turbo V8.
The Audi R8 bowed out of production last year without a successor on the horizon. While it was initially expected that the brand would launch a fully electric supercar, the latest reports suggest it will go down the plug-in hybrid route for the next-gen R8 which will be based on the underpinnings of the Lamborghini Temerario.
The R8 remained in production between 2006 and 2024, selling a total of 45,949 units. The first generation was mechanically related to the Lamborghini Gallardo, while the second generation was a sibling to the Huracan. Both featured naturally aspirated V10 powertrains, sitting at the top of Audi Sport’s lineup.
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According to Autocar, development of the third-gen R8 has “progressed beyond the feasibility stage”, with a possible debut in late 2027. Contradicting earlier reports about a fully electric successor of the R8 using components from VW Group’s upcoming SSP architecture, the publication now claims that the Audi supercar will be powered by a plug-in hybrid setup.
The electrified powertrain will allegedly be shared with the Temerario, as will the aluminum spaceframe chassis and the electronics, writing another chapter in the collaboration between the two brands.
The Temerario is fitted with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine and a trio of electric motors, generating a combined 907 hp (677 kW / 920 PS). Furthermore, an even more powerful version is rumored to be under development with over 1,000 hp on tap.
These numbers would make the new R8 the most powerful and fastest roadgoing Audi ever built, surpassing even the fully electric RS E-Tron GT Performance.
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In order to differentiate its supercar from its Lamborghini twin, Audi Sport will reportedly focus on everyday usability. In this context, it could be positioned as a rival to high-end versions of the Porsche 911 and Mercedes-AMG GT. As with the previous generations, the R8 would most likely feature a unique exterior and interior design and could be offered in Coupe and Spyder versions.
The third-gen R8 will reportedly be produced at the Böllinger Höfe plant, just like its predecessors. Chances are that Audi Sport will also develop racing versions of the new R8, continuing the nameplate’s motorsport heritage.
