Audi Is Not Ready to Say Goodbye to the Five-Cylinder Engine: TDS

Audi Is Not Ready to Say Goodbye to the Five-Cylinder Engine: TDS

      Jerry Perez/The Drive

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      Welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short, The Drive's morning news summary featuring the biggest automotive headlines from around the globe.

      The Downshift condenses news items into a few sentences, providing links to other sources for a deeper dive. Here’s your update for Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

      5️⃣ Although Audi hasn't indicated that its iconic five-cylinder engine is at risk, the constant tightening of emissions regulations can threaten unique enthusiast engines. Thankfully, Audi Sport boss Rolf Michl has made reassuring statements suggesting that the five-cylinder engine still has a future. He noted in an interview, “We’re well aware of the historical significance of the five-cylinder,” and added, “Evaluations are still ongoing, and those who know me are aware of my personal connection to this engine. It’s distinctive and deeply embedded in history—so let’s wait and see.” Currently, the engine is exclusively used in the RS3. [Autocar]

      📹 Another day brings another large recall related to faulty backup cameras, with Stellantis recalling nearly 850,000 vehicles across 15 models including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. [Autoblog]

      📜 Ongoing negotiations aim to reduce the 25% tariff rate on Canadian vehicles in the U.S. A crucial point in these talks is whether North American content can be deducted from this rate, or if it’s strictly U.S. content. The target is to drop the rate to 15%, but depending on the finalized content rules, the "effective rate" could even dip into single digits. [Reuters]

      ⚡ Honda and Acura currently do not provide hybrid powertrains for the HR-V subcompact SUV and its upscale counterpart, the ADX. Gary Robinson, the head of product planning at American Honda, stated in an interview that the main challenge for introducing such technology is the cost, particularly for an entry-level segment. [Automotive News]

      🚕 Tesla may be preparing to debut its Cybercab robotaxi fleet in Austin as early as this month, according to sources familiar with the company’s plans. [Reuters via The Information]

      🏭 More information has surfaced about Jaguar Land Rover’s partnership with Stellantis to utilize some of its production capacity for building vehicles in the U.S., revealed during a JLR earnings call. Chief Financial Officer Richard Molyneux emphasized that the focus is solely on U.S. production—not Canada or Mexico—underscoring the importance of the U.S. market for the company. “Keep in mind, the U.S. has 40% of the world's millionaires, a strong inclination towards SUVs where we excel, and a significant loyalty to our brands: Range Rover, Defender, and Jaguar, in particular.” [CarBuzz]

      🕹️ Mate Rimac is not dismissing the idea of a V16 Bugatti with a manual transmission; rather, he is enthusiastic about it. When asked if such a vehicle fits with the brand's legacy, the CEO expressed, “Yes, definitely. Absolutely. I completely agree. Just imagine a V16 with a real manual.” [Road & Track]

      🙅‍♂️ Porsche specialist Ruf has denied reports suggesting the company was in discussions for a potential sale to Porsche, stating that it is “not for sale, and claims to the contrary are untrue.” [Carscoops]

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Audi Is Not Ready to Say Goodbye to the Five-Cylinder Engine: TDS

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Audi Is Not Ready to Say Goodbye to the Five-Cylinder Engine: TDS

An Audi executive has stated that he recognizes the significance of the engine to the brand, and efforts are currently underway to ensure it complies with upcoming emissions regulations.