2028 Audi Nuvolariaudi (audi)Nearly 1,000 hpFastest Audi everRevs to 10,000 rpmPolarizing looksNot as practical as a Q9Photo credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiAdvertisementAdvertisementPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiPhoto credit: audiAs incredible as the 2028 Audi Nuvolari is to look at, this hybrid supercar is about so much more than the numbers. If the Nuvolari can back up those interesting looks with MotorTrend-tested (and approved) performance, this becomes not just another 1,000-hp supercar. Instead, the 2028 Nuvolari could just be the car that elevates the entire brand.That's why the 2028 Nuvolari piques our interest; that and the fact that Audi is actually making this thing. It's no concept. Will it do R8 fans proud?What's NewEverything is new on the 2028 Audi Nuvolari. Let's start with the basics. The Nuvolari is a mid-engined hybrid supercar with two motors on the front axle and one on the rear. AWD and a turbocharged V-8 engine are standard.Audi also promises that the new Nuvolari introduces a new design direction from the brand. We welcome a change from some of the brand's recent cars, but we're not sure how the bold look of this Nuvolari will translate to more pedestrian cars and SUVs.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor now, it could be the perfect counterpart to the new, enormous Q9 three-row SUV. And yes, we're joking about practicality above.MotorTrend TestedOur expectations are high for this one. At MotorTrend, we not only evaluate but also track test cars, and this Nuvolari has some serious performance credentials. We're talking about around 987 hp from a three-motor V-8 hybrid system, and we didn't even tell you the best part:The Nuvolari will rev to an astounding 10,000 rpm. Sure, that could mean higher performance but, just as important for some enthusiasts, it hopefully means a motorsports-inspired Audi supercar that can fill every tunnel with the glorious sounds of a screaming V-8.AWD is standard and Audi estimates a 0-62 mph time of 2.6 seconds. Though that's not the quickest time MotorTrend has seen in testing, that's enough forward thrust to generate giggles from every one of your lucky passengers.Performance TechThe standard AWD system has a predictive ride system that intends to maximize traction and control -- both especially important when you're piloting something this capable.As with pretty much every supercar these days, the dynamics can be adjusted via driving modes. But not every car can anticipate a possible loss of grip in a corner and be ready to respond. What we'll look for is whether we can feel this tech at work and also, whether it actually furthers our driving enjoyment. That's not always been an Audi strength.Then again, don't count Audi out. When we drive the Audi RS5, now a heavier plug-in hybrid, we had tons of fun despite the extra weight. Audi does do what it can with the 2028 Nuvolari when it comes to heft: Most exterior parts are made from carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Audi says the extensive use of carbon fiber in the Nuvolari is directly inspired by its F1 expertise.Incredible Brakes? The brakes can handle up to 0.3 g of deceleration simply from regenerative braking. What this means is that when you're cruising, turning heads on the boulevard, you may not need to touch the brakes at all. Instead, much of your braking can be handled by simply lifting off the throttle, like an electric car.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhen it's time to turn things up, Audi says the brakes can handle serious braking that's similar to what F1 cars can handle.InteriorInside, Audi takes care to make some components out of anodized aluminum. Up front, a darker theme takes center stage, and the infotainment screen is low on the dash, which allows for a slightly lower dash.As a fun design Easter egg, Audi says that colors in the infotainment system are inspired by the Auto Union Type C race car of the 1930s.The standard AWD system has a predictive ride system that intends to maximize traction and control -- both especially important when you're piloting something this capable. Why Is It Called Nuvolari?Some may recall Audi used the Nuvolari name on a beautiful luxury coupe concept in the early 2000s. The 2028 Nuvolari production car clearly has a different focus.AdvertisementAdvertisementBoth cars were named after Tazio Nuvolari, a famous Italian racecar driver.Nuvolari Release DateWhat you see here is a pre-production prototype, and Audi says it's only making 499 Nuvolaris. We'll see about that. What we can tell you is that U.S. production hasn't been confirmed but we'd count on a few making their way to our shores.
