Audi R8 To Get Larger, But Sport Smaller Engine Next Gen

By Ganesh

Published: Tuesday, March 11, 2014, 16:18 [IST]

The next gen Audi R8 is due for a launch in 2015 and will be based on the Lamborghini Huracan, much like the present generation R8 is based on the Gallardo.

However, Audi has some interesting plans for its next-gen flagship performance car. Speaking to Audi technical chief Ulrich Hackenberg on the sidelines of Geneva Motor Show Autocar UK has learnt some interesting facts.

Also Read: Lamborghini Huracan - Images & Details

The 2015 Audi R8 will share the Huracan's carbon and aluminium lightweight tub. Despite based on the "same general layout" thought the new R8 will both be wider and have a longer wheelbase than the Lamborghini.

The engines powering the new Audi R8 will be a V8 and a V10. While the V8 will be an improved version of the current V8 mill found in the R8, the V10 will be the 5.2 liter unit that powers the Huracan. The R8 will also get four wheel drive and a seven speed dual clutch transmission.

Hackenberg said, though the engine and transmission will be the same they will be tuned differently to serve a different purpose. The same goes for the suspension layout and geometry which will be made to provide a different driving characteristics.

All that apart, at some point in time, Hackenberg revealed, the R8 will be required to get a turbocharged engine due to engine size limitations in some countries. An engine smaller than the V8 is then confirmed, though even Audi has not decided whether it will be a turbo four, turbo six or even a five cylinder unit like in the Audi RS3 or RS Q3.

Whatever it is, it would be the first time Audi R8 will be available in an engine smaller than a V8 and this is something that's confirmed.