Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept officially debuts

Audi is widely expected to launch a V10 version of its R8 sports car next, but a new concept announced at the Detroit auto show ups the ante to twelve cylinders. Audi officially revealed the concept today, following a leak earlier this week.

Power for the concept comes from the automakers race-derived 6.0 liter V12 diesel motor, which was first used in the R10 Le Mans competition car, and is now available in the Audi Q7. The engine produces 500 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.

Earlier reports suggested that Audi would equip the R8 with a diesel engine for the 2009 model year, although Audi's TDI V8 was assumed to be the leading candidate.

Other highlights of the show car include a glass roof, an increased use of carbon fiber, revised front and rear aprons, and larger air intakes all around.

Does this mean the R8 lineup will eventually include V8, V10, and V12 powerplants? It's too soon to know for sure, but we think there's a distinctive possibility.

(Source Leftnews.com)