Although a majority of automakers are swapping normally aspirated engines for turbocharged and supercharged ones with fewer cylinders, a new report suggests the upcoming Audi R8 will keep its V8 engine.
Speaking with a source from Audi, Car and Driver suggests the next-generation R8, due out next year following the Lamborghini Huracán, will keep its 4.2-litre V8 mounted in the middle. Currently, it produces 430 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, but Audi will likely massage more power out of the engine.
Audi engineers did consider introducing a turbocharged V8 into the R8, but encountered difficulties in properly cooling the engine given the drivetrain layout. More importantly, Car and Driver‘s source says moving to a turbocharger would dull the R8′s personality, including its throttle response and exhaust note. See? Audi cares about the little things, and we’re perfectly OK with that.
