Report: The Audi R8’s Successor Would Have A Plug-In Hybrid Drive

Production of the Audi R8 ended last year. Instead of a fully electric supercar, the upcoming model is expected to be a plug-in hybrid based on the Lamborghini Temerario platform.

The R8 was produced from 2006 to 2024, with 45,949 units sold. The first generation was mechanically related to the Lamborghini Gallardo, and the second to the Huracán. Both used a naturally aspirated V10 engine and were at the top of Audi Sport’s range.

According to the British magazine Autocar, development of the third-generation R8 has progressed beyond the feasibility stage, with a possible debut expected in late 2027. Contrary to earlier reports of a fully electric successor to the R8 using components from Volkswagen’s SSP platform, the magazine states that Audi’s future supercar will be powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

Lamborghini Temerario To Serve As Base Platform

The electrified drivetrain will reportedly be shared with Lamborghini’s Temerario model as well as an aluminum chassis and electronics, which will open another chapter in the cooperation between the two brands

The Temerario features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined output of 920 horsepower. There are also discussions about a more powerful version currently in development, which is expected to exceed 1,000 horsepower. These specifications could position the new R8 as the most powerful and fastest road-going Audi in history, surpassing even the all-electric RS e-tron GT Performance.

To differentiate the supercar from Lamborghini, Audi Sport will focus on everyday usability. In that context, it could be positioned as a rival to the top-of-the-line Porsche 911 and Mercedes-AMG GT. Like previous generations, the R8 is likely to feature unique interior and exterior designs and could be offered in Coupe and Spyder body styles.

The third-generation R8 will reportedly be built at the Böllinger Höfe plant, just like its predecessors. Audi Sport could also produce racing versions of the new R8, continuing its motorsport tradition.

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