Audi RS6: Next generation to feature V8 instead of V10?

Friday, September 25, 2009

Audi RS6: Next generation to feature V8 instead of V10?

Street word has it that Audi might drop the V10 for the next-generation Audi RS6 in favor of a V8.

As improved efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions take hold in the early years of the next decade, that almost certainly means the S6/RS6 will follow the trend of this year's new S4 and down-size its powerplant.

The larger RS6 is currently propelled by a twin turbocharged 5.2-liter V10. The V10 which is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo (in normally aspirated form) will likely give way to a smaller, boosted V8 that should be lighter and more compact. In all likelihood, the smaller engine won't result in a reduction in performance and will probably be in the 4.0-4.5-liter range with either supercharger, turbos or perhaps both.