2023 Audi R8 rumoured with twin-turbo V8

The 2023 Audi R8 could move to twin-turbo V8 power, replacing the ageing V10 engine currently fitted to the supercar.

The R8 may end up using the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine found across the Audi S and RS performance range, as well as in other Volkswagen Group vehicles such as the Bentley Continental V8, Porsche Cayenne, and Lamborghini Urus SUV – according to a report from Germany’s Auto Bild.

Given Audi’s aggressive move towards an electrified model line-up, the next R8 could emerge with some kind of hybrid powertrain before adopting a fully-electric one, helping the high-performance model to abide by Europe’s strict emissions laws.

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As reported last month, the Audi R8 was axed from the local line-up, with low sales making it difficult for the German carmaker to continue to produce Australian-specific versions of the 5.2-litre V10 engine.

“The current generation of the Audi R8 Coupe and Spyder are no longer offered in Australia, for local homologation reasons," an Audi spokesperson told MOTOR in September.

"The R8 will continue to be produced for other markets. Audi AG is currently discussing various concepts for a possible R8 successor, but no decision has been made so far."

If the twin-turbo V8 found in other models does make its way into the supercar, it could make the reintroduction of the Audi R8 a viable option for the brand.