It took a while before International car media started picking up on the story of German AutoBild indicating there is a new Audi sports car in the making. They released a speculative video showing renders of the supposed new Audi R6 that should bridge the gap left by the Audi TT and Audi R8.
Additionally AutoBild claim that the project has already received a codename: PO455. The future R6 would be closely related to the new Porsche 718 Boxster that is likewise part of the immense Volkswagen Group. Its platform shows to be of appropriate proportions for a mid-size Audi roadster. The R6 would of course get an Audi engine and possibly be fitted with Quattro all-wheel drive.
More interesting is why the Volkswagen Group would pull such a move in a time that sports cars are losing market share to ever growing compact SUV market. AutoBild claims that despite entering a saturated market seems a bit of a bold move, the decision would still be a strategic one. According to rumors, the Volkswagen Group would want to spread costs on the Boxster’s new platform, using an economies of scale strategy.
For now these are just rumors and there is a big chance they will stay that way. Volkswagen Group does not exactly have spare cash laying around like they used to before and in times of damage control, investments may be better spent elsewhere.
porsche should have a brand new roxster for 10k less than boxster! a new entry level sports vehicle!