Audi CEO Gernot Döllner lets out a hearty laugh. He pauses, smiles, and then says, "I'm a big fan of the V8." That's all we, the assembled group of journalists at a roundtable in Munich, needed to hear. A pathway for the R8's return exists, and it would likely collide with the Lamborghini Temerario.
While the discussion in the room mainly focused on the upcoming RS5 and Q9, the gathered media pressed Döllner on other topics, such as increased hybrid options, global strategies, and even more rugged offerings. But for a brief moment, talk turned to a future R8, which Döllner deemed a "good idea."
The Walter de Silva-designed Audi R8 remains a supercar standout thanks to its gorgeous shape and awesome engine. Yes, the V10 shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo and Huracan delivered a great experience. But for my money, the nose of that original 4.2-liter Audi V8 still sings the sweetest song.
"There's no restriction to an engine like that," says Döllner, regarding the packaging capabilities of a V8. Gernot goes on to say that the Lamborghini Temerario has a great V8—"10,000 rpm, twin-turbo, brilliant."
Speaking further, Döllner praises the VW Group's platform-sharing capabilities and highlights the benefits of plug-in hybrids in the performance-car space. None of this is confirmation that a new Audi R8 is coming, mind you. But if you heard Döllner's laugh and saw his smile, your halo-car-loving heart would've grown three sizes that day.
Motor1's Take: Audi is making a bigger push to bridge the gap between pure combustion cars and electrics. Thus, there's a need for more hybrid models. And a plug-in hybrid halo car could help stir enthusiasm for other offerings in the lineup. The coming RS5 will be cool, but a Temerario-based R8 would be amazing.
