Audi’s leadership is entertaining the possibility of a new supercar, but only “someday,” according to CEO Gernot Döllner. The company’s current focus remains on bolstering its lineup with high-performance variants like the upcoming RS5 and next-generation RS6, while also filling a crucial gap: the absence of a dedicated coupe or convertible.
Filling the Coupe Void
The discontinuation of models like the A5, TT, and R8 has left a noticeable void in Audi’s portfolio. The Concept C, slated for release within two years, aims to address this, potentially featuring an electrically retractable targa roof to compensate for the lack of a convertible option. While an all-new supercar isn’t off the table, Döllner has indicated it wouldn’t revive the R8 name, instead hinting at a potential halo model further down the line.
Leveraging Existing Platforms
Audi is leaning heavily into platform sharing to manage costs. A future supercar would likely borrow from the Lamborghini Temerario’s underpinnings, a move that makes economic sense given the Volkswagen Group’s aggressive cost-cutting measures. The conglomerate plans to save €60 billion by 2028, with estimates suggesting up to a 20% reduction in spending. This strategy extends beyond supercars: Audi has also suggested that any future off-roader rivaling the Mercedes G-Class would utilize an existing body-on-frame platform, likely the Scout Traveler due in 2027.
Electric Sports Car Takes Priority
Despite the potential for a high-performance halo car, Audi’s immediate priority is its upcoming electric sports car. Döllner acknowledges sales volumes for such an exotic model would be limited (“very low five digits”), making a combustion-powered, Lamborghini-derived supercar less urgent. The electric sports car, arriving around 2028, is the more realistic near-term option for Audi enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience.
While a new supercar remains “thinkable,” Audi’s current strategy centers on maximizing efficiency through platform sharing and prioritizing the development of its electric sports car.
The economic realities facing the automotive industry, particularly in the face of rising competition from Chinese manufacturers, dictate a cautious approach to costly new projects. While an Audi supercar may materialize eventually, it’s unlikely to arrive this decade.
