2015 Audi R8 to use carryover engines with minor performance tweaks

Could be launched early next year

According to a recent report, the 2015 Audi R8 will retain its naturally-aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine.

Citing company insiders, Car & Driver is reporting the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 - which produces up to 560 HP (412 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque - proved too difficult to cool in mid-engine models like the R8. As a result, the next-generation model will use an updated 4.2-liter V8 that delivers "slightly more power." There's no word on the final numbers but the engine currently produces 430 HP (316 kW) and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque.

If that's not powerful enough, the 5.2-liter V10 will also return with similar performance upgrades. The engine currently produces 525 HP (386 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) in the R8 V10 and 550 HP (404 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque in the R8 V10 Plus.

As we have previously reported, the R8 was scheduled to go into production in mid-2014 but several last minute changes have reportedly pushed the launch back until early next year.

Note: Audi R8 rendering by Sebastian Kunz

Source: Car & Driver