Audi has followed up on the promise of producing the stunning Le Mans Quattro concept first showcased at the 2003 Frankfurt motor show. The car, billed as the essence of sportiness coupled with high-tech aluminium chassis technology, will be badged as the R8, giving the R badge yet more kudos within the Audi range thanks to the Le Mans winning racer.

There is no mention of powertrain options yet, but if the concept car’s 5-litre bi-turbo direct injection engine is anything to go by, then things could get very interesting. Investment in this product is at 28 million Euros, with no less than 250 engineers and designers already working at the Neckarsulm plant, the development to be carried out by Audi’s subsidiary Quattro GmbH. Production is planned for late 2006, with cars hitting the showrooms by mid 2007.

With the prospect of a flagship Audi sports coupe with a Le Mans heritage, the acclaimed Quattro four-wheel drive system and Lamborghini proven powertrain should prove to be an awesome addition at the sharp end of the sports car market.

Do I even need to mention the German build quality?

Paul Wilkinson - 25 Nov 2005