Audi is plotting small 2.9-litre V6 engine for R8
The Audi R8 could get a new ‘entry-level’ engine in the shape of a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 – the same engine to be used in the upcoming RS4 and RS5.
Those following the launch of the new Porsche Panamera will recognize the similarities. The engine, which in the Panamera 4S makes 323kW and 550Nm, is part of a joint venture between Audi and Porsche under the working title KoVoMo.
The engine will be the coup de grace for Audi’s 331kW and 425Nm normally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 which can no longer compete for those low carbon emissions while being outplayed by the turbo charged performance.
The twin turbo charged 2.9-litre engine is not to be confused with Audi’s 3.0-litre turbo charged V6 (fitted to the current S4) which employs a simpler, but arguably less effective, single twin-scroll turbo.
Several outputs from the 2.9-litre engine are expected thanks largely to tweaks in boost pressure.
In its highest specification, the Audi R8 could see power stretched to 372kW and 678Nm.What you want to know is how that faces up to Audi’s 5.2-litre V10 currently deployed in the 2016 Audi R8. The smaller engine concedes a mere 25kW but makes 138Nm more.
Right now that’s an uncomfortable victory for Audi’s junior R8 although in this market the V10 Plus with the more aggressive aero trim should remain the R8’s top seller.
Read the review of the 2016 Audi R8 here
