Tag Archives: Audi

Audi R8 is coming back as plug-in hybrid

In March 2024, Audi announced that it would officially end production of its popular sports car R8, after 18 years and two generations. However, some reports suggest that the R8 could return as a plug-in hybrid.

According to Autocar, a third-generation R8 is in development and will be based on the same platform as the Lamborghini Temerario, with which it will also share an aluminum chassis, electronics and powertrain. This resolves the dilemma that arose earlier, that the replacement for the R8 could be an all-electric car.

The Temerario is powered by a 4.0-L V8 twin-turbo engine with 800 hp (596 kW) and 538 lb-ft (730 Nm) of torque combined with three electric motors, for a total output of over 900 hp (671 kW). The engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

At the end of 2023, Audi introduced the R8 Coupe Japan Final Edition as the last edition of this sports car, officially marking the end of its production. It is powered by a 5.2-L naturally aspirated V10 engine with 612 hp (456 kW) and 428 lb-ft (580 Nm) of torque. The same engine powers the R8 V10 GT RWD, but this version has a seven-speed S-tronic transmission that sends power to all wheels.

The arrival of the new Audi R8 is expected in 2027, and fans of this model are now wondering if the German brand will produce a racing version, as was the case with previous generations.

Source: Autocar

Thieves stole 300,000 euros worth of parts from ABT Sportsline

German tuner ABT Sportsline is known for some of the best sports car upgrades, especially for Audi cars and the related primary Volkswagen Group brands. However, popularity also has its downsides. Recently, an unknown group of thieves stole car parts worth 300,000 euros.

Several photos have been published showing the thieves removing the rims and expensive carbon-ceramic brakes from parked cars. According to Daniel Abt, the thieves targeted seven cars in total, and the company believes that this could not have been done by amateurs, because the power supply and lighting were disabled before the theft. The police are currently investigating the case.

One of the cars from which the thieves stole the expensive forged rims and carbon-ceramic brakes is an Audi RS6. ABT believes that these parts will be sold on the black market.

Obviously, ABT Sportsline should have better security.

Source: ABT Sportsline

2026 Audi A6 Avant TFSI

On March 4, Audi will launch the new generation of the A6. The car will be presented in two body styles, first as a station wagon (Avant), and then a sedan version will be launched.

YouTube channel KondorCars has released a short video showing the Audi A6 Avant in the S-Line version with aggressive bumpers, larger wheels and darkened logos. At first glance, the new A6 has a design similar to the A5, but with a higher radiator grille and headlights similar to those used on the RS6 and A7 Sportback. There is also an LED line that runs the width of the rear.

What we know for now is that the new A6 will be based on the PPC (Premium Platform Combustion) platform, an improved version of the MLB Evo platform currently in use. When it comes to powertrains, it will be offered as a gasoline and diesel with mild hybrid technology.

In March 2024, Audi announced a new naming scheme to separate the electric models (A4 and A6) from the ICE models (A5 and A7), but that is not going to happen. They now have a new goal, to become a luxury brand and join brands like Mercedes-Benz. Whether they will be able to achieve this remains to be seen.

Source: KondorCars via YouTube