Audi chooses to keep the R8 dead

According to Dr. Kjell Gruner, President & CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, the mid-engined Audi R8 supercar won’t be making a comeback anytime soon.

Speaking in a recent interview, Gruner debunked the rumors that Audi was actively working on a next-generation R8. He added that the company ditched the plans to supply the U.S. automotive market with compact hatchbacks after realizing how much higher the margins were on premium SUVs.

He also pointed out that Volkswagen Golf R and GTI are both iconic hot hatches and won’t be going anywhere anytime soon, because they improve the Volkswagen brand image.