Audi will expand its current R8 supercar range with a new entry-level model that’ll use a V6 engine, according to online reports.
Twin-turbo V6 rumoured
The V6 will be a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol unit. It is reportedly the same engine that features in the upcoming new S4 Saloon and Avant, where it produces 349bhp.
Like the new S4, and indeed the V10 version of the R8, the new V6 entry-level R8 will in all probability utilise Quattro four-wheel drive and an S tronic automatic gearbox.
Whether the V6-run R8 will have the same amount of power as the S4 or more comparatively remains to be seen. While the V6 in the S4 produces 349bhp, the R8 will reportedly increase output to 444bhp.
Performance figures are unconfirmed, but while the new entry-level R8 will be slower than the V10 version, it’s still rumoured to have a top speed of 190mph.
Possible pricing and launch date
There have been rumours in the recent past that the Audi R8 would add a more affordable, entry-level entry, but until recently it was speculated that the car would use a 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine like the one found in the Audi TT RS. But this now seems unlikely following the more recent reports on a V6 coming.
The V6-run Audi R8 will likely arrive to European markets sometime in 2017. Pricing is unconfirmed, but whereas the V10 model currently starts at £119,500, the V6 version could be priced at just under £100,000.
Before the arrival of the V6 entry-level version, Audi will likely launch a Spyder convertible version of the latest R8 first.
