After a long series of teasers and spy shots, Audi decided to officially unveil the new generation R8. The supercar will make a public debut during Geneva Motor Show, next week.
Design
The car is built around Audi Space Frame, which combines aluminium and carbon-fibre reinforced composites (CFRP) for a lower weight. The spearhead of the range, the R8 V10 Plus, has a dry weight of 1.454 kilograms (3,205 pounds). Despite extra equipment and greater rigidity, the new Audi R8 weighs up to 50 kilograms (110 pounds) less than its predecessor.
The design features laser spot for the high beam, complemented by dynamic turn signals with their scrolling function in the intended turn direction at the front. Dynamic turn signals are standard at the rear.
Interior
In the new Audi virtual cockpit, the displays are digital. The most important controls grouped together in button clusters on the steering wheel, also known as satellites. In the interior, the driver has the impression of sitting in a racing car. MMI navigation plus with MMI touch is standard.
Drivetrain
The 5.2-litre FSI engine at the heart of the new R8 is available in two versions: one with 540 PS and another R8 Plus roducing 610 PS. The range-topping model accelerates in a mere 3.2 seconds from rest to 62 mph and keeps going to its maximum speed of 205 mph. A seven-speed S-tronic transmission and a newly developed quattro drive system transmit the power to the road.
Production
The new Audi R8 V10 is produced at a new quattro GmbH production site that was specially built for the sports car, the “Böllinger Höfe” site in Heilbronn.
