The Audi R8 left the American market after the 2023 model year, and there have been rumors about a new generation ever since then. The speculation was that the next model would be a pure EV, without any combustion power. The company’s latest statements about the model’s future emphasized that there were no plans for a future ICE R8.
During a media roundtable at the New York International Auto Show, an executive from the automaker spoke vaguely about the future strategy for the supercar. From the statements, it appears that the model’s next step is still uncertain, possibly due to the general chaos in the auto industry at the moment.
The R8’s Future
During the meeting with the automotive media, Volkswagen Group of America CEO Kjell Gruner spoke a bit about the R8’s future.
“[It’s a] product portfolio discussion—what’s viable in the market,” he said, according to Motor1. “A mid-engine, internal combustion engine vehicle, I don’t see that on the road map.”
TopSpeed reached out to Audi of America for additional details, and a spokesperson told us, “We don’t have any further comments at this time.”
Not all the news was so dire, though. Gruner also spoke a bit about the future of VW’s hot hatchbacks. “Volkswagen is about fun to drive. If you get into a Golf R or a GTI, you get out with a smile on your face. We will continue to be there, absolutely.”
What Else Is Going On?
Gruner’s statements about the R8 run contrary to our latest reports about the car’s future. The earlier news suggested the next-generation model would adopt a plug-in hybrid powertrain, sharing the same platform with the Lamborghini Temerario. The previous report suggested the possibility of a mid-mounted combustion engine and three electric motors – two at the front and one at the back – for a total output of 895 HP.
The idea makes sense because the R8 is traditionally associated with Lamborghini’s smaller models, such as the Huracán. While the two models share similar powertrains, the Audi model has different styling from its Italian counterpart. The German model features a smoother look than the more angular look of the Lamborghinis.
TopSpeed’s Take
The Audi R8 was a defining supercar of its generation. While it shared a lot with contemporary Lamborghini models, the car featured unique styling that set it apart from competitors. The vehicle was sleek and powerful, while also looking like something from the near future. It also proved to be a success in terms of gaining pop-cultural cachet, with Robert Downey Jr. driving one in Iron Man.
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