The R8 Is Gone, but the Audi Nuvolari’s First Track Test Proves the Supercar Magic Is Back

[Source: Car and Driver]

When Audi ended production of the R8, it left a rather large hole in the automaker’s lineup. For nearly two decades, the mid-engine supercar served as a rolling demonstration of what Audi engineers could accomplish when practicality took a back seat to performance. Now, Audi is back in the supercar business with the Nuvolari, and the first track reviews suggest the wait was worth it.

Car and Driver recently got behind the wheel of the new Nuvolari at Circuito de Madrid Jarama in Spain. After just three laps around the former Formula 1 circuit, the publication came away thoroughly impressed. And considering the Nuvolari produces nearly 1,000 horsepower, that’s probably not surprising. What is surprising is how approachable the car reportedly feels when driven at its limits.

The Nuvolari shares its basic architecture and plug-in hybrid powertrain with the Lamborghini Temerario. Behind the driver sits a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that produces 789 horsepower and revs to an astonishing 10,000 rpm. Three electric motors boost combined output to 987 horsepower, or 80 more than the Lamborghini. An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission handles gear changes, while Audi’s advanced quattro system puts the power to the pavement.

On Jarama’s nearly half-mile front straight, Car and Driver saw an indicated speed approaching 185 mph. That’s seriously quick, particularly when you consider the Nuvolari still had enough performance in reserve to keep accelerating. Fortunately, massive Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes were up to the task of bringing everything back down to a reasonable speed. However, the biggest surprise wasn’t the acceleration or braking. It was the way the Nuvolari handled.

Audi’s new quattro Predictive Drive system uses sensors and sophisticated software to anticipate driver inputs and distribute torque accordingly. Two electric motors at the front axle provide precise torque vectoring, helping the car remain stable through corners and under heavy braking. Electronically controlled adaptive dampers also help maintain grip without sacrificing composure.

According to Car and Driver, the result is a supercar that feels remarkably predictable despite its extraordinary performance. Rather than fighting the driver, the technology works in the background to make the Nuvolari easier to control. The publication also praised its steering feel and responsive handling.

There’s plenty of luxury, too. The cabin combines leather and microfiber with a minimalist design that emphasizes the driving experience rather than overwhelming occupants with displays.

Of course, the Nuvolari comes with a few catches. Audi plans to build just 499 examples, and pricing is expected to exceed $700,000 before customization. That puts it in an entirely different financial universe from the R8.

Nevertheless, the Nuvolari represents something bigger than another expensive, limited-production supercar. It’s a showcase for technologies that could eventually influence more accessible Audi Sport models.

The R8 may be gone, but if these first driving impressions are any indication, Audi hasn’t forgotten how to build a supercar that delivers more than impressive numbers on a specification sheet. And this is only the beginning. We can’t wait to see what comes next.