RIP Audi R8 V12 TDI

Even though it initially looked like one of the most appealing models wearing Audi's signature, the R8 V12 TDI won't enter production after all, as production costs are way too higher given the current market conditions. A report published by autoexpress.co.uk and citing sources familiar with the situation said that reworking the R8 chassis to incorporate a V12 diesel powerplant is an extremely expensive process that won't make sense during so difficult economic times.

The concept flavor of the R8 V12 TDI was first unveiled to the world at the North American International Auto Show in 2008 in Detroit and was expected to enter production sometime in late 2009 or early 2010.

According to figures provided by the aforementioned source, the 5.5-liter diesel unit installed on the car developed a maximum power of 500 bhp and 1,001 Nm of torque, which translates into a 0 - 60 mph acceleration in 4.2 seconds and a maximum speed of 330 km/h (205.05 mph).

The engine was fully compliant with Euro 6 emission regulations and was mated to a manual transmission with very short shift travel. It was made from polished aluminum which reduced the overall weight of the car while providing the same performance figures as a traditional gearbox.

“If anyone could do a diesel supercar, it’s Audi,” an Audi insider told Auto Express. “But the market isn’t strong enough to make it realistic.”

Back in 2008 at the Detroit Motor Show, Audi announced that the roadgoing version of the V12 TDI will be built at the Gyor plant in Hungary but it's still unclear whether this particular facility will start the production of a different model.