The iconic Audi R8 appears ready for a dramatic return in 2027, marking a significant reversal of what many believed would be the permanent retirement of the supercar.
According to multiple industry sources, Audi’s flagship performance vehicle will return as a plug-in hybrid powerhouse, sharing crucial architecture with the recently revealed Lamborghini Temerario.
The return signals a strategic shift for Audi, which had previously committed to transitioning to a fully electric lineup by 2033. Under the leadership of CEO Gernot Döllner, the brand has taken a more pragmatic approach to electrification, acknowledging that market adoption of EVs has not matched previous projections. This revised roadmap allows for the extension of select combustion models and an expanded range of plug-in hybrids, with the R8 potentially becoming the crown jewel of this revised strategy.
The development of the third-generation R8 has reportedly progressed beyond feasibility studies, with active engineering work underway. The new model will follow the successful formula established by its predecessors: borrowing the powertrain and cutting-edge platform of the Lamborghini Temerario, while offering a more refined and daily-driver character that appeals to Audi’s customer base. This approach proved effective with previous generations, which were shared with the Gallardo and Huracán, respectively, resulting in over 44,000 R8 sales between 2007 and 2023.
The powertrain promises to be nothing short of extraordinary — a departure from the naturally aspirated engines of previous R8 generations, but no less thrilling. At its heart will be Lamborghini’s 4.0-liter V8 biturbo, featuring a flat-plane crank and a surprising redline of 10,000 rpm.
This internal combustion unit produces 789 horsepower on its own, complemented by three electric motors that push the total output to 907 horsepower. The standard model will likely match these numbers, while a potential performance variant could approach the 1,000-horsepower threshold, cementing its position as the most powerful road-going Audi ever produced.
The hybrid configuration places two electric motors on the front axle, retaining Audi’s exclusive Quattro all-wheel-drive system, with a third positioned between the V8 and the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. A compact 3.8 kWh lithium-ion battery provides a modest six miles of purely electric range — a number that seems more focused on regulatory compliance than on practical zero-emissions driving.
Performance metrics will no doubt impress, with 0-62 mph acceleration expected to be well under three seconds, and a top speed approaching the 210 mph of the Temerario. The aluminum spaceframe shared with its Italian counterpart promises greater rigidity by using fewer components and welds than previous generations, potentially offsetting some of the weight added by the hybrid system.
While Audi has declined to officially comment on these reports, the business case seems compelling. Lamborghini has already heavily invested in the development of the Temerario’s platform and powertrain, making the R8’s return a relatively efficient proposition. Additionally, the new model could support Audi’s motorsport ambitions, potentially producing FIA-approved variants for endurance racing events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.
For enthusiasts who lamented the apparent end of the R8, this news represents an unexpected reprieve. As the automotive landscape continues its gradual shift toward electrification, it seems that the characteristic howl of a high-revving engine will continue to emanate from Audi’s halo car for at least one more generation.
Source: LuxuryLaunches. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
