Audi has already shown us two concept versions of its V12-powered R8 oil-burner but whether this means the concept is headed for production is still up in the air. The new 6.0L diesel mill has already appeared in production trim in the upcoming Q7 V12 TDI, which goes on sale in the middle of the year, but getting it running smoothly in the R8 will take some time.

Despite pumping out 500hp and 1,000Nm (737lb-ft) of torque, in the R8 concept the monster engine is mated to a humble Audi A4 gearbox. The guys from AutoWeek, who were invited to take the concept for a test spin, claimed the car was easy to drive although they couldn’t take it beyond 50mph because of the gearbox. They report that there’s a 50-50 chance the car will make production and that the only major modifications needed is a new gearbox and a repositioning of the firewall to make enough room for the engine.

Geneva V12 R8 Concept

Detroit V12 R8 Concept

Audi presents second R8 V12 TDI concept in Geneva
Audi R8 V12 TDI