Audi R8 gets extensive update

"The R8 occupies a unique position for Audi in every respect," says Michael-Julius Renz, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. "It's now even more powerful and faster. Motorsport is part of our DNA. With around 50% shared parts with the R8 LMS GT3 and even 60% with the R8 LMS GT4, no other automobile is so close to motor racing as the R8," adds Oliver Hoffmann, Technical Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH.

The heart of the Audi R8 is its naturally aspirated 10-cylinder engine. With the basic unit, the 532bhp of power has been increased by 30bhp to 562bhp and the torque boosted by 10Nm to 550Nm, which is on tap at 6,500rpm.

The Audi R8 V10 quattro accelerates from 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds (Coupe) and 3.5 seconds (Spyder) before reaching a top speed of 324km/h (Spyder: 322km/h). The 5.2 FSI in the Audi R8 V10 performance quattro generates 611bhp instead of the previous 602bhp, with peak torque of 580Nm improving upon the previous 560Nm.

The increase here is primarily the result of an optimised valve train with components made of titanium. The Coupe sprints to 100km/h in 3.1 seconds, the Spyder in 3.2 seconds. The propulsive power ends at 330km/h and 328km/h respectively. Both engines come with a particulate filter to reduce emissions more effectively.

Modifications to the suspension also provide even more stability and precision than before. The assistance has been retuned both with the optional dynamic steering and the electromechanical power steering.

Steering response and the feedback from the road come across as even more precise across the entire range of speeds.

In addition, Audi Sport has made the distinction between the profiles available as part of the Audi drive select dynamic handling system - Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual - even clearer. On the R8 V10 performance quattro the three additional programmes Dry, Wet and Snow form part of the Performance mode as standard.

The honed character of the new R8 models also becomes clear visually. The Singleframe radiator grille has a wider, flatter line. Thick bars divide up the large air inlets. Flat slits in the hood are reminiscent of the Audi Ur-quattro brand icon. The new front splitter is now wider, as is the striking low-set air vent grille at the rear. The grille rounds off the diffuser that extends quite some way up.

All of which underlines the sporty look of the Audi R8. In the engine compartment the air filter is situated under a new, three-part cover - available in a choice of plastic or carbon fibre.