RUF Unveils Ehra: A 650bhp Widebody Grand Tourer with 911 Roots

Key points

• The RUF Ehra was unveiled at The Quail during Monterey Car Week 2026.
• It is powered by a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 650bhp and 664lb ft of torque.
• The car uses a seven-speed manual transmission and a variable all-wheel-drive system that can be tuned for rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
• Built on a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, the Ehra weighs approximately 1,325kg, yielding a power-to-weight ratio of 484bhp per tonne.
• The design features widebody fenders, a deployable carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and a retro-styled interior with brown leather and titanium pedals.
• The car is named after the Ehra-Lessien proving ground, where Phil Hill set a speed record in the original CTR Yellowbird in 1987.

Background

RUF has previously released several models based on the same carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, including the CTR Anniversary, SCR, and off-road Rodeo. The Ehra is positioned as a grand tourer, distinct from the track-focused CTR and the off-road Rodeo, while sharing the same powertrain platform. This follows a trend of RUF expanding its lineup with variations of its core chassis and engine, as noted in earlier coverage of the brand's 2026 releases.

How outlets are covering it

Top Gear emphasizes the car's restrained aesthetic, noting the absence of a fixed ducktail or whale tail in favor of a deployable spoiler, and highlights the widebody dimensions and manual transmission. Motor1 focuses on the performance metrics, citing a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and estimating a top speed near 200 mph, while praising the rear spoiler design. Jalopnik provides technical depth, noting the engine is a retuned version of the Rodeo's unit with 40 additional horsepower, and highlights the car's weight of just under 3,000 pounds and its positioning as a daily-usable grand tourer. Car Magazine offers a detailed power-to-weight comparison, noting the Ehra's 484bhp per tonne is competitive with the Ferrari 458 Speciale and close to the Bugatti Veyron, and emphasizes the car's touring focus with an overdriven top gear. All sources agree on the core specifications but differ in emphasis: Top Gear and Car Magazine focus on design and performance ratios, Motor1 on speed, and Jalopnik on engineering and usability.

Why it matters

The RUF Ehra represents a new direction for the brand, shifting from pure track performance to a high-performance grand tourer. Its combination of a manual transmission, all-wheel drive, and lightweight carbon-fiber construction appeals to enthusiasts seeking a driver-focused, high-output vehicle with classic 911 styling. The car's debut at Monterey Car Week signals RUF's continued relevance in the niche supercar market, offering a unique alternative to mainstream manufacturers with a focus on craftsmanship and performance.

What to watch

RUF has not announced pricing or production numbers for the Ehra, but it is expected to be a limited, high-value release. The car will likely be available for purchase through RUF's direct sales channels, with potential deliveries in 2027. Further details on the car's performance, including top speed and handling, may be revealed through track testing or customer reviews in the coming months.