Rumour has it that the entry-level Audi R8 will use a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine that was recently revealed in the latest-generation Porsche Panamera. The new turbocharged V6 will replace naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine to meet future emissions standards and evade road tax in countries where it is linked to engine capacity, such as China.
In the latest Porsche Panamera 4S, the powerplant delivers 434 bhp at 5650 rpm and 550 Nm (405 lb-ft) of torque between 1750rpm and 5500rpm, at a relatively low 0.4 bar (5.8 psi) of boost pressure. With increased pressure, the engine is said to deliver in-excess of 500 bhp and up to 680 Nm (500 lb-ft) of twist, although Audi has yet to confirm the final outputs for their four new new performance models.
This motor will also be used in the Audi RS4, RS5 and probably the RS Q5 models. The new modular engine family known as KoVoMo was a collaborative effort between Audi and Porsche and sources say that engine has been prepped for high-outputs. In the most recent RS4 and RS5, Audi’s naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 kicked out 444bhp and 314lb ft.
The new 2.9-litre turbo V6 engine designed for the RS4, RS5, RS Q5 and R8 will differ in displacement from the 3.0-litre V6 – also a joint venture – recently launched by Audi in the new S4 and their induction systems will be different as well, with the Audi S4’s engine using a single twin-scroll turbocharger and the 2.9-litre version getting twin turbochargers.
