With the current Audi R8’s lifespan coming to an end, development for the next gen R8 is already underway. Word has it that Audi may be planning for some drastic changes for the upcoming replacement model. The new Audi R8 will likely retain the tried-and-tested 5.2L V10, but beyond that, it’ll be interesting to see what Audi has planned.
Besides the usual roadgoing Audi R8, sources has also indicated that Audi may be planning an even hotter Audi R8 RS, a model that is surprisingly not offered in the outgoing model. Quattro Managing Director Heinz Hollerweger said, “I have to admit we are discussing it. We’re always open for new ideas—things like this are very interesting for us.” Hollerweger also mentioned that the hotter RS model will only debut once the successor R8 has reached later into its lifespan (Which is easily another 3-4 years from now).
Other than the proposed Audi R8 RS, Hollerger also said, “I wouldn’t exclude a rear-wheel-drive special for the future, but it probably won’t happen immediately. Of course, up to now the RS and R8 models have all been four-wheel-drive, because this is one of our Audi assets and we should keep it.” Well, considering that the next generation Audi R8 will share its aluminium and carbon fibre underpinnings with the Lamborghini Huracan, it comes as no surprise that a rear wheel drive R8 may be in the cards. That however, pretty much goes against Audi tradition, as Audi is famed for their quattro all-wheel-drive system.
As for the stick shifters, sad news for you guys, as Audi will likely drop the manual option for the next gen R8. Holleweger said, “There is almost no desire from our customers to have a manual gearbox.” Kinda sad, as the manual Audi R8 has been rated quite highly by members of the media. The new gen Audi R8 will also be available in several other variants, which includes a full-electric version that is based off the e-tron concept. Other models like a diesel or even a plugin-hybrid may also appear.
Images via Motor Authority.
