Production-ready Porsche 918 Spyder photo leaked

By Nick Jaynes January 11, 2013

Porsche 918 Spyder — Image used with permission by copyright holder

If we – and German automotive website Auto Bild – aren’t confused, the photo above appears to be of a production-ready Porsche 918 Spyder, which would be very exciting indeed.

Forgiving the 918’s slight side resemblance to an elongated Audi R8 with a 911 nose, we think it’s absolutely fantastic looking. It’s a bit subdued, sure. But when you add in the open top and those bright green brake calipers, the 918 pops off the screen.

For those not in the know, the 918 is the latest supercar from Porsche and quite a special beast. Powered by a 4.6-liter V8, two electric motors and some lithium-ion batteries, the 918 is expected to hit 60 MPH from a dead standstill in around three seconds.

With a 0-60 time like that, the 918 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting plug-in hybrids of all-time. But wait – it gets better. The 918 will have a net power output of 795 and will hit a top speed of 202 MPH.

Owners will be able to operate the 918 in three modes: gasoline engine only (putting out 580 horsepower without the electric motors), electric mode only, and a hybrid mode that will be the best of both worlds. The 918 will feature Porsche’s magnificent seven-speed PDK transmission, complete with paddle shifters.

This photo only makes us yearn to hear the incomparable sound of both a screaming Porsche V8 and the powerful whine of two electric motors. It will surely be a thing of auditory magic and the perfect soundtrack for what appears to be an unforgettable supercar.

Editors' Recommendations

Porsche will use discarded F1 tech for a new hybrid supercar, report claims

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.