- A third-generation Audi R8 is reportedly in the works
- It is tipped to share a chassis and plug-in hybrid powertrain with the Lamborghini Temerario
- The last R8 ended production in early 2024
The Audi R8 may be set to return as soon as 2027, sharing its chassis and powertrain with the Lamborghini Temerario.
The news was first reported by Autocar on March 10, which claimed that a new R8 is crucial for Audi’s GT racing program.
The last R8, the second generation of the nameplate, ended production in early 2024, following its exit from the U.S. market after the 2023 model year.
At the time, Audi did not confirm plans for a direct successor but hinted that an electric replacement could arrive once EV technology became advanced enough for supercar applications.
Lamborghini Temerario
However, with EV adoption progressing more slowly than expected, many automakers that had committed to fully electric lineups are now planning new combustion-engine models. Audi previously stated that its last combustion-powered car would launch in 2026, but that would no longer be the case if a new R8 is developed with the Temerario’s technology.
The past two R8s were also related to Lamborghinis, with the original car twinned with the Gallardo and the second-generation car twinned with the Huracán. With the Temerario, Audi engineers have a great starting point to develop a new third-generation R8.
Lamborghini Temerario
The Temerario generates a peak output of 907 hp, thanks to a newly developed twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 working alongside three axial-flux electric motors. The V-8 is capable of revving to 10,000 rpm. Like its Revuelto sibling, the Temerario features two electric motors at the front axle and a third motor positioned between the engine and 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is mounted transversely behind the engine—just like in the Revuelto.
The Temerario’s chassis is equally impressive. It retains an aluminum spaceframe design, like the Huracán, but with major structural improvements. Torsional stiffness has increased by 25%, while the number of structural components has been cut in half compared to the Huracán, and heat welds have been reduced by 80%.
Lamborghini Temerario chassis
Performance figures include 0-62 mph in 2.7 seconds and a top speed exceeding 210 mph. An electric-only range is also possible, thanks to a 3.8-kWh lithium-ion battery positioned in a central tunnel.
To ensure the R8 does not compete directly with the Temerario, Autocar reported that the Audi will focus more on everyday usability, much like its predecessors. The 2027 launch is also expected to coincide with a more powerful version of the Temerario, helping to create a performance buffer between the two models.
