Audi Continues To Assess The Five-Cylinder Engine’s Prospects

Audi Sport is now looking for a way to give the five-cylinder a new opportunity. The main problem is finances. Adapting the engine to Euro 7 standards is technically feasible, which Audi itself has previously admitted, but upgrading a unit that is installed in a small number of models requires large investments with a questionable return.

Hybridization is one option, but it comes with a higher cost and additional vehicle weight. Therefore, increasing the volume of production could be key. There has been unofficial talk for some time about Volkswagen’s desire to put this engine in the Golf R, which Audi allegedly blocked in 2020. Although Ingolstadt didn’t want to share its signature engine at the time, it eventually ended up in the Cupra Formentor.

Of course, all this does not mean that the RS3 will definitely keep five cylinders. Mihl pointed out that the negotiations are ongoing and that the final decision has not yet been made. The company could still conclude that the investment is not worth it, especially in the European market. Despite this, the news is significantly more positive than last year. Rumors persist that the five-cylinder could finally arrive in the Golf R next year, which would coincide with the R brand’s 25th anniversary in 2027.

If Audi wants to justify further engine development, installing it in more models within the group would help spread the costs. It is known that the Concept C sports targa model is not a candidate because it will be available exclusively as an electric vehicle.

Since the Volkswagen group plans to reduce costs and capacity, the 2.5 TFSI could be considered too specific a product for such a small series. However, there is still hope for the survival of the legendary engine, provided that the engineers and the finance department in Ingolstadt find a common language.

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