Audi Dropping V10s
AutoBild reports that Audi will be dropping Lamborghini-sourced V10s from its R8, RS6 and S8 models. AB blames the V10’s weight, thirst and complexity for the move, although one might guess brand strategy played a role in the decision as well. With over twice as many brands as GM, the Volkswagen Group has to work hard at not competing with itself, and keeping V10s in the Lamborghini camp seems like a good place to start. But Audi’s long-soldiering aluminum 4.2 V8, which has seen duty in everything from the R8 to the RS4, has also earned eight-cylinder engines a home in the Audi brand. And since that engine is used by independent supercar manufacturers from Spyker to Gumpert, there’s no shame in giving up a pair of cylinders. Besides, with the new S4 downsized to a supercharged V6, there’s room at the top of the range for an eight-pot. And guess what? There’s a new one in the works. AutoBild says an Audi-only 4.0 V8 is being developed which will make up to 550 hp and 515 lb·ft of twist in its highest state of tune. And even that won’t be the be-all and end-all of Audi performance: an R5 coupe is set to debut towards the end of 2011, powered by a 375 hp 2.5 liter turbo-five that harks back to the Ur-Quattro.
More by Edward Niedermeyer
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Maybe its me... But I just had an epiphany... Im guessing that Audi wont actually suffer from a drop in engine size. They will just do what BMW and MB do.. when downsizing motors. Just strap 2 turbo/superchargers to it.. and act like nothing happened. As for not offering V10s.. Id like to see / know a Audi driver who actually knows what mill is under the hood, and complains about his fuel economy in his Q7, Q5, R/S6 etc etc.
"Just strap 2 turbo/superchargers to it.. and act like nothing happened." Perhaps High School was optional. . . "Just strap 2 turbo/superchargers to it.. and act like nothing happened.?" It's FAR more complicated than that. Perhaps you buy/own American garbage car(s).?
^^^^ Also note that, according to reports, BMW will once again be selling fours in North America next year.