AUDI Australia is preparing to welcome the return of its incredible R8 Coupé and Spyder super car in a refreshed form, with both models combining phenomenal performance, state-of-the-art technology and bold styling, that sets them apart on the road.
The new R8 will be available in two models, a V10 rear-wheel drive variant, and a V10 quattro, with both also offered in Spyder form. The duo are powered by a celebrated 5.2-litre FSI V10, that boasts incredible power and torque for a naturally aspirated engine.
The engine develops 397kW/540Nm in the V10 RWD, and an astonishing 449kW/560Nm in the V10 performance quattro. In addition, the aural symphony of the engine can be heard from the new ‘R8’ dual oval sports exhaust.
Since 2009, the R8 LMS GT3 racing program has allowed engineers to push the boundaries, delivering the progress found on the race track to drivers on the road.
It’s for that reason, race-bred technologies like dry-sumped lubrication, a high 12.7:1 compression ratio, dual injection and lightweight materials throughout contribute to the engine’s incredible character.
Nevertheless, intelligent efficiency solutions ensure fuel consumption figures remain responsible. The cylinder-on-demand system can shut down an entire bank of five cylinders under light throttle load, further improved with the start-stop system.
Among other efficiency technologies, these contribute to fuel consumption figures of 12.2 and 13.4-litres/100km, for the V10 RWD and V10 performance quattro respectively (Coupé).
The new Audi R8 Coupé V10 performance quattro is one of the fastest Audi sports cars ever built, utilising its quattro all-wheel-drive grip to catapult to 100km/h from rest in just 3.2 seconds (3.3 for the R8 Spyder), before a top speed of 330km/h.
The R8 Coupé V10 RWD will sprint to 100km/h from rest in 3.7 seconds (3.8 for the R8 V10 Spyder). Both cars share 50 per cent of their DNA components with the R8 LMS, which is rear-wheel drive due to GT3 racing regulations.
The R8 RWD makes full use of its low centre of gravity, mid-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive characteristics for a thrilling driving experience aimed squarely at purists.
For the performance quattro edition, the all-wheel drive system is a fundamental part of its towering dynamic capabilities, thanks to its legendary engineering concept.
The electro-hydraulic clutch distributes torque between the front and rear wheels, controlled by sophisticated software. The front-to-rear torque transfer is fully variable, depending on Audi drive select and the driving conditions.
The perfect complement for both the rear-wheel and quattro drivetrains is the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission that delivers lightning-fast gearshifts.
The chassis of the new R8 consists of the intelligent, lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) concept. The body of the Coupe tips the scales at just 200kg, combining aluminium and carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) to form the basis of the occupant cell.
This advanced concept affords an unmatched combination of torsional strength and low weight. Overall, both the R8 RWD Coupe and R8 V10 performance quattro weigh 1,595kg, thanks to the latter’s more extensive use of CFRP and lightweight materials throughout.
Additional engineering highlights include the adjustable Audi drive select system, which integrates with the responsive electro-mechanical steering and the Audi magnetic ride (V10 performance quattro only).
The double-wishbone suspension is derived from racing and has been modified in the new R8 to provide increased precision and response. Aerodynamics also represent a leap ahead, with a near fully-sealed underbody minimising drag.
Infotainment and connectivity are highlights of the new Audi R8, embracing functionality and convenience.
The MMI Navigation plus system offers a clean, minimalist layout with dual touchscreens and seamless integration of the (12.3-inch) high-resolution Audi virtual cockpit.
New standard features include wireless smartphone charging and a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 13 speakers and 550 watts of power.
The design of the new Audi R8 V10 RWD and V10 performance quattro is provocatively edgy too, exuding an angular exterior with new features that accentuate their sporty characteristics.
The Singleframe grille is wider and flatter. In combination with the darkened headlights and adjoining design elements, the R8 looks even sharper. Winglets at the side divide the large air inlets and the front splitter is now wider, underscoring the sporty look.
The air inlet grille spans the entire width of the rear end, and the diffuser is more dominant and frames the new oval exhaust pipes.
The spectacular design of the R8 is complemented by 20-inch alloy wheels for all models. The R8 RWD features a new ‘EVO’ design, whereas the V10 performance quattro rolls on specially developed, lightweight milled wheels that further reduce unsprung masses.
The R8’s striking design is complemented by metallic paint as standard, as well as LED headlights and taillights (with dynamic indicators). Further visual amplification is provided with standard Audi laser light technology, stretching forward vision to 500 metres.
Inside, R8 sports seats are upholstered in fine Nappa leather with contrasting stitching, featuring full electric and pneumatic adjustment. Piano black gloss inlays and stainless steels pedals and footrest complete the look.
Comfort items such as rear-view camera (with parking system plus), cruise control, convenience key, electric/folding/heated mirrors and heated seats are also standard.
The R8 RWD comes equipped with 18-inch steel ‘wave’ disc brakes, clamped by red calipers all around, with 8-pistons at the front and 4 at the rear. Sport suspension, a tyre pressure loss indicator and anti-theft wheel bolts and alarm are standard.
On top of this, the R8 V10 performance quattro adds an exclusive gloss carbon exterior styling package, from front-to-rear including the side blades. The gloss carbon continues throughout the cabin inlays.
The R8 bucket seats hug the driver, and are also in Fine Nappa leather, with a black Alcantara headlining. The standard ceramic brakes measure 19-inches in diameter, clamped by 6-piston calipers at the front and 4 at the rear.
The new Audi R8 range is offered with a range of nine exterior and interior colour combinations, while the R8 V10 RWD is available with a choice of two carbon styling option packages.
Set to arrive in dealers on July 24, pricing for the Audi R8 Coupé and R8 Spyder starts from $295,000 plus on-roads. As with all models in the Audi range, the new R8 will available to order through the brand’s online platform, at audi.com.au
