Spectacular design and breathtaking dynamism, combined with the allure of open-top driving – Audi presents the new Audi R8 Spyder* at the New York International Auto Show 2016 from March 23 to April 3. Its V10 naturally aspirated engine supplies 397 kW (540 hp) and 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) of torque.

The new open-roof high-performance sports car opens another chapter in the Audi R8 success story. It all started in 2007 with the market introduction of the first-generation Coupé, followed by the Spyder in 2010. Sales of both versions combined reached nearly 27,000. They demonstrate the high-tech expertise of Audi and the brand’s affinity with motorsport. The brand restates this with the second R8 generation – its engineers developed the new Audi R8 Le Mans, a GT3 racing car, in parallel with the production models. As a result, almost 50 percent of all the parts used on the R8 LMS are also to be found in the R8. The success of the new Coupé is confirmed by prestigious awards bestowed on it last year, such as the “Golden Steering Wheel” and the “Auto Trophy”.

“Our new R8 line is the sporty vanguard of Audi,” remarked Board Member for Development Dr.-Ing. Stefan Knirsch. “Following on from the Coupé, we are now bringing out the second generation of the R8 Spyder. The open high-performance sports car delivers thrillingly captivating performance and gives the driver an even more direct experience of the V10 naturally aspirated engine’s unmistakable sound.”

Athletic design: wider than predecessor

The dynamic character of the new Audi R8 Spyder V10 is immediately apparent at first glance. The forward position of the passenger compartment, the highly accentuated wheel arches and the long back define the classic silhouette of a mid-engine sports car. The new R8 Spyder is 14 millimeters (0.6 in) shorter than the previous model and measures an overall 4,426 millimeters (14.5 ft) in length. It has grown by 36 millimeters (1.4 in) in width to 1,940 millimeters (6.4 ft). The height of 1,244 millimeters (4.1 ft) is unchanged from the first-generation R8 Spyder, as is the wheelbase of 2,650 millimeters (8.7 ft).

Horizontal lines at the front and rear emphasize the width of the R8 Spyder, as does the large, low-height Audi Singleframe with its radiator grille in honeycomb structure. Sculptural surfaces connect it to the wedge-shape headlights in each of which 37 light-emitting diodes generate bright LED light as standard. As a high-end option, Audi offers laser lighting for maximum visibility and range – identified by a blue anodized strip in the headlights that is additionally lit. This cutting-edge technology is combined with the dynamic indicator lights. At the rear, it is supplied as standard on all versions.

Typically Audi: lightweight cloth hood

The newly developed hood of the R8 Spyder is made of cloth, in typical Audi fashion. It weighs a mere 44 kilograms (97.0 lb), thus contributing to the low overall weight of this high-performance sports car. An electro-hydraulic drive opens and closes the soft top at the press of a button in just 20 seconds, and this can even be done while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.1 mph). The hood module is located behind the seats. It comprises the components roll-over protection, hood, hood tray, rear-window compartment and a multiple-joint hinge for the carbon fiber reinforced, hydraulically powered hood compartment cover.

The levels of road and wind noise inside the car are much lower than on the predecessor model. With the hood down, air turbulence at head level has also been reduced. There is a wind deflector made from synthetic textile for an extra boost to comfort. It reduces the reverse flow around the head by approximately 90 percent and around the shoulder/neck by 80 percent. As well as the textile wind deflector, with the hood open the rear window can act as an additional wind deflector. Whereas if it is retracted, the driver will have an even more intense experience of the V10 engine’s characteristic roar.

The flat storage compartment into which the hood is folded down as it opens has a large cover with three sporty ventilation slits on each side. Two fins running to the rear stretch the hood and give the R8 Spyder a dynamic profile. The hood is available in three different colors: black, brown and red.

Lightweight construction with carbon fiber components: dry weight just 1,612 kilograms (3,553.9 lb)

The new Audi R8 Spyder V10 impressively demonstrates the dynamic potential of lightweight automotive construction with a dry weight of 1,612 kilograms (3,553.9 lb). The power-to-weight ratio is just 3.19 kilograms (8.6 lb) per hp.

The key to this outstanding figure is the new Audi Space Frame (ASF) that uses the multi-material construction principle. As in the R8 Coupé*, it combines aluminum components with structurally integrated carbon fiber reinforced polymer. The aluminum components make up 79.6 percent of the multi-material ASF. In a progression from the Coupé version, they form a lattice that Audi’s engineers have used to incorporate specific reinforcements especially into the sills, A-posts and windscreen frame. Innovative manufacturing methods lower the weight of individual components by up to ten percent. Overall, the ASF in the new Audi R8 Spyder weighs just 208 kilograms (458.6 lb); what is more, its torsional rigidity has increased by 50 percent compared with the previous model. It has achieved top marks for acoustics and crash safety, too. The underbody has a smooth trim, to improve the aerodynamics. And at the rear, a large diffuser increases the downforce – two more solutions taken directly from motorsport.

Inspiring: the V10

With its precise throttle response, free-revving ability all the way up to 7,800 rpm and stunning sound, the ten-cylinder engine guarantees goosebumps. From its 5,204 cm3 displacement, it develops a power of 397 kW (540 hp) and a torque of 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. Along with direct injection into the combustion chambers (FSI), the V10 adds fuel injection into the induction manifold (MPI). The result is captivating performance: The new Audi R8 Spyder V10 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.6 seconds. It races from a standstill to 200 km/h (124.3 mph) in 11.8 seconds. The speedometer needle only stops rising at 318 km/h (197.6 mph). The snarl and roar of the V10 become more full-throated and passionate as the revs rise. Exhaust flaps are standard; the optional sport exhaust system with gloss black tailpipe trims gives the sound added edge.

Compared with the previous model, NEDC fuel consumption has been cut by ten percent – thanks to efficiency technologies such as cylinder on demand (COD), the dual injection system and the freewheeling mode in the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission: when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal at speeds over 55 km/h (34.2 mph), the engine is decoupled from the drivetrain – the new Audi R8 Spyder then coasts. It consumes on average 11.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (20.1 US mpg) which corresponds to 277 grams CO2 per kilometer (445.8 g/mi).

Triple-strength high-tech: the quattro drivetrain

The quattro drivetrain combines three high-tech modules: The seven-speed S tronic, which is located behind the engine, changes gear with lightning speed thanks to its two clutches. There is an electro-hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch on the front wheels, an electronic-control, watercooled system that distributes the V10’s torque freely between the axles. A mechanical rear differential lock is the key to sporty road behavior. Its locking values were newly tuned to work together with the actively controlled quattro drive.

The driving dynamics control for the quattro drive is integrated into the Audi drive select system, which offers the four modes comfort, auto, dynamic and individual. In each of these, the open-top high-performance sports car displays a different character ranging from effortless autobahn cruising to a style that savors every bend on a mountain pass. The system also draws on the accelerator characteristic, the steering, the S tronic, the exhaust flap control function and the optional adaptive damping system Audi magnetic ride.

The car’s handling becomes even more accomplished and precise with the optional performance leather steering wheel, which makes its debut in the R8 Spyder. It adds three more driving programs: dry, wet and snow. Because each mode has its own specific friction parameters, the driver can adapt their R8 Spyder individually to the prevailing conditions of the road being traveled. As well as the above technical modules, the ESC stabilization control system also influences these modes.

Firm and precise: the suspension

The R8 Spyder owes its decidedly dynamic handling among other factors to the low installed position of the engine, which is achieved thanks to dry sump lubrication. The wheels are controlled by lightweight aluminum wishbones – a layout that reveals motorsport DNA. The electromechanical power steering provides excellent road contact thanks to its subtly differentiated feedback. Alternatively dynamic steering is available. It changes the ratio as a function of speed, while adapting the steering torque to suit. The result is an even more precise steering feel and enhanced ride comfort.

Audi supplies the new R8 Spyder as standard with 19-inch wheels with a mix of tires (245/35 at front and 295/35 at rear). There is the option of 20-inch wheels with size 245/30 tires at the front and 305/30 tires at the rear. The brakes provide supremely controlled retardation for the open-top high-performance sports car. The calipers are each fitted with eight pistons on the front wheels, and four on the rear wheels. Large, ventilated and perforated wave-design discs are used all round. As an equipment option, Audi can also supply extra-durable, lightweight brake discs made from carbon fiber reinforced ceramic material capable of handling especially high loads.

The controls: full focus on the driver

The operating concept of the new Audi R8 Spyder V10 focuses consistently on the driver, as in a racing car. The driver can control all important functions from the new sport or performance leather steering wheel. Their hands remain on the steering wheel so that they can concentrate fully on the road. Standard features include satellite buttons for starting and stopping the engine, and for the driving dynamics system Audi drive select. The performance leather steering wheel comes with two additional control satellites – one for the performance mode, and one for the exhaust flap control.

The standard Audi virtual cockpit presents all information in richly detailed, high-resolution 3D graphics on a 12.3-inch monitor. The driver can choose between three screens – the classic view, the infotainment view and the performance view. Ambitious drivers taking to the racetrack will particularly appreciate the latter, which supplies data on torque, power output, oil and tire temperatures, lap times and g-forces The displays around the speedometer and rev counter can be customized to individual preferences.

MMI navigation plus with MMI touch is standard equipment in the R8 Spyder. As with a smartphone, its control features are structured in flat hierarchies, including a free text search function. Vehicle functions can be controlled from the steering wheel, the MMI terminal on the console of the center tunnel or by natural-language voice control. The latter is especially convenient and delivers high-quality results thanks to three small microphones in the belts. They are standard in the R8 Spyder.

Well connected: Audi connect and Audi smartphone interface

The perfect counterpart to MMI navigation plus is the Audi connect module, which gets the open two-seater on the Internet via LTE and gives access to a wide range of services. These extend from navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View to online media streaming and real-time traffic information. Inductive smartphone charging via Audi phone box is available as an option. The Audi R8 Spyder is the first model on which selected mobile phone content can also be displayed directly in the Audi virtual cockpit via the Audi smartphone interface. From the middle of this year, this option will also be available for the R8 Coupé.

One highlight for audio enthusiasts is the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 13 loudspeakers, including the new head-restraint loudspeakers. There are two of these in each seat, positioned at ear level of the driver and passenger; they are notable for their excellent sound and low weight.

Top drawer: quality and equipment

The Audi R8 Spyder V10 is almost entirely hand-built at the “Audi Böllinger Höfe” purpose-made production plant near Neckarsulm. quattro GmbH is steadily building up its expertise in small production runs there. The manufactory character of the production operations affords ample scope to accommodate specific customer requests. The sport seats for driver and passenger come as standard – upholstered in exquisite diamond-pattern leather as an option. Alternatively Audi can supply bucket seats for even better lateral support.

Add-on body components such as the front spoiler, diffuser or the new, striking sideblades can be customized, for instance in high-gloss carbon fiber. Another element that is both a technical innovation and provides visual differentiation is the optional Audi laser lighting with anodized blue strip. An entirely new color is available especially for the R8 Spyder, Argus brown, matt, along with ten other paint finishes.
Fuel consumption of the models named above:

Audi R8 Spyder V10:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.7 (20.1 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 277 (445.8 g/mi)

Audi R8 Coupé V10:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.4 (20.6 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 272 (437.7 g/mi)

Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.3 (19.1 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 287 (461.9 g/mi)

An exclusive presence: The “Audi Sport” Edition of the Audi R8 Coupé

• Limited-edition special model with exclusive paint finish in silver, red and black
• Two-color leather upholstery and trim, steering wheel with 12 o’clock marker, and carbon trim
• Premiering at the New York International Auto Show

Silver, red and black are the colors of Audi Sport – and of the new special edition R8 Coupé model bearing its name. Along with specific components in the cockpit and body, the colors heighten the car’s motorsport feeling. Audi is unveiling the exclusive, high-performance sports car for the first time, at the New York International Auto Show. The car is being built in a limited run of 200 and can be ordered from May onward.

The Audi R8 is the brand’s sporty spearhead – on the road and on the race track. Its DNA is endowed with know-how earned from the many success stories at Audi Sport, particularly in endurance racing. “In 2016, we had the most successful year in the history of Audi Sport customer racing, our customer sport department,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. “With the R8 LMS we brought home 24 titles, scored 85 race victories and tallied up over 100 other podium finishes.”

And now the Audi Sport Edition is bringing more motorsport emotion to the production car realm with its expressive interplay of the colors silver, red and black, and exclusive interior equipment. In addition to floret silver, matt or gloss, the selection of paint finishes includes mythos black and ibis white. Regardless of what body color the customer chooses, the sideblades and exterior mirrors in brilliant red produce a striking contrast and are just one of the visual highlights. Accenting the sophisticated exterior are the front spoiler, Singleframe grille and diffuser insert, all in titanium black – yet another facet of the car’s distinctive character. At the rear, trapezoidal tailpipe trims in gloss black enhance the dynamic effect of the car’s design.

Audi Sport GmbH has equipped the special edition with 20-inch wheels of forged aluminum, with 245/30 front tires and 305/30 rear tires. The rims in an eye-catching 10-spoke Y design feature a gloss anthracite black paint finish and stand out with their silver edges. And there’s a very special touch: The rim flanges in a gloss turned finish are embellished by an Audi Sport logo. On the R8 V10 version, a high-gloss red finish lend the calipers of the powerful steel brakes a blazing look. And on the version with the plus engine variant, the ceramic brake discs are fitted with calipers in an anthracite-colored finish.

The interior welcomes driver and passenger with illuminated door sill trims. Their aluminum inlays bear the Audi Sport label complete with the red rhombus, and the model’s exclusiveness is indicated by the inscription “1/200”. The color palette of the interior harmonizes perfectly with the car’s exterior. The door trims and sport seats are in fine Nappa leather, with a color combination of black and express red. The seat backrests are embossed with the R8 emblem – an exclusive design element for the special edition model. Contrasting stitching in dark silver accents the steering wheel, door trims and seats.

The car’s sporty character is underscored by decorative inlays in a gloss carbon finish. The inlays are used at places including the surrounding frame of the Audi virtual cockpit, on the air vents and on the center console. The flat-bottomed, leather-covered performance steering wheel in three-spoke design is standard on the special edition model. It is emblazoned with an R8 emblem, and the black leather-covered rim of the wheel has an express red stripe at the 12 o’clock position, in keeping with the car’s motorsport heritage. The marker is a visual aid to help drivers keep the steering wheel centered when challenging their driving skills.

The famously powerful V10 mid-engine starts up by means of one satellite control button, and the driver uses a second button to adjust the settings of Audi drive select, the dynamic handling system. Two additional buttons and a rotary switch are used to control the exhaust flaps and the performance mode, which includes three more driving programs – dry, wet and snow. They adapt the handling even more precisely to the respective road conditions.

The Audi Sport Edition of the R8 Coupé will be built in a limited production run of 200 cars, and orders can be placed worldwide beginning in May 2017. In Germany prices of the model powered by the V10 variant with 397 kW (540 hp) start at EUR 181,900. And prices of the car with the V10 plus variant, which delivers 449 kW (610 hp) of power, start at EUR 205,800. Deliveries will begin in late summer of 2017.

Fuel consumption of the models named above

Audi R8 Coupé V10 (397 kW):
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.4 (20.6 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 272 (437.7 g/mi)

Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus (449 kW):
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.3 (19.1 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 287 (461.9 g/mi)

One year ago the Audi R8 LMS won the 24 Hours Nürburgring on its debut. The GT3 car’s victory marked the start of a successful year of motor racing for Audi Sport. The brand now celebrates the R8 LMS with the “selection 24h” special edition, a homage to its tally of 323 wins in national and international race assignments since 2009.

The “selection 24h”, being built in a limited production run of 24, is based on the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus*. Its 5.2-liter V10 mid-engine develops 449 kW (610 hp) and accelerates the top model of the Audi R8 car line from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in a mere 3.2 seconds, before advancing to a top speed of 330 km/h (205.1 mph). That makes the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus both the fastest and most powerful production Audi of all time. A newly developed quattro drive distributes its power fully variably between both sets of wheels. The suspension, the aerodynamics configured to handle high downforces and the operating concept featuring the Audi virtual cockpit are all motorsport-inspired. That is because Audi developed the second generation of the R8 in parallel with the GT3 racing model R8 LMS. Close cooperation between race car engineers, motorsport specialists and developers has brought both models a significant boost in performance.

The dry weight of the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus is 1,454 kilograms (3,205.5 lb); its body built using the multimaterial construction principle weighs a mere 200 kilograms (440.9 lb). The combination of aluminum and carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) in the Audi Space Frame opens up entirely new dimensions with regard to weight, rigidity and crash behavior.

The technical package in the “selection 24h” special edition comprises dynamic steering, the adaptive damper control system Audi magnetic ride and Audi laser lighting. The tricolor paint finish consisting of Suzuka gray as the basic color, with mythos black and Misano red highlights, evokes the successful Audi R8 LMS.

The front spoiler, the exterior mirror housings, the engine compartment cover, the rear wing and the diffuser are made from gloss-finish carbon fiber. The same applies to the sideblades with matt-finish “R8 24h” logo. The tailpipes of the sport exhaust system feature black trims and the 20-inch forged aluminum wheels in 10-spoke Y design are painted gloss anthracite black. Inside, the limited-edition model offers full-leather upholstery and trim in the color rotor gray, with Alcantara headlining. The air vents and the extended inlays for the surround of the Audi virtual cockpit are made of gloss-finish CFRP. The latter also bear the matt-finish “R8 24h” logo. The illuminated door sill trims are also made of gloss-finish carbon. They display the serial numbers 1 to 24 for each of the limited-edition cars. As an exclusive feature of the limited edition, the entry lights on the doors project the Audi R8 logo onto the road surface. In future, every R8 customer will be able to personalize their car with a near-unlimited range of lettering and logos from the Audi exclusive offering.

The “selection 24h” special edition of the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus is a homage to Audi’s remarkable achievements in endurance racing. In the Le Mans 24 Hours alone, the brand with the four rings has celebrated 13 overall wins in the past 15 years. The first five of these were clinched by the R8 sports prototype, which gave its name to the production sports model. The GT3 racing car Audi R8 LMS made its competition debut in 2009. It has since collected over 300 wins worldwide, including overall wins in 24-hour races on the Nürburgring, at Spa-Francorchamps and Zolder, and in Dubai. It also has a class victory in Daytona to its name. Last year, the new generation of the Audi R8 LMS made a dream debut and won its first 24-hour race on the Nürburgring at the very first attempt.

The Audi R8 “selection 24h” will be on view to the public for the first time at the AUDI AG presentation area in the paddock at the 24 Hours Nürburgring. Orders for the special model can be placed from May 10, 2016. It costs EUR 229,000 in Germany.

Fuel consumption of the model named above

Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.3 (19.1 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 287 (461.9 g/mi)

New level of freedom: the Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus

• Convertible top model with 449 kW (610 hp); 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.3 seconds
• Performance mode, R8 bucket seats, ceramic brake system and carbon components included as standard equipment
• Exclusive design package with special exterior color

The Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.5 l/100 km [18.8 US mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 292 [469.9 g/mi]) from the workshop of Audi Sport GmbH is the fastest series-production convertible model from the brand with the four rings. Its unmistakable 610 hp V10 mid-engine offers intense driving performance and powers the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The standard performance program, R8 bucket seats and many components made from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer distinguish this high-performance sports car, with its exclusive micrommata green paint finish giving it an even more cutting-edge look.

“The Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus completes the R8 model line,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “The Spyder is now also available as a 610 hp top version in addition to the Coupé. It benefits from our many years of experience in motorsport and combines breathtaking dynamics with the emotion of an open-top sports car.”

The most powerful series-production engine from Audi: V10 mid-engine with 449 kW (610 hp)

Incredibly high revving up to 8,700 rpm, lightning-quick responsiveness and an awe-inspiring, voluminous sound – the V10 mid-engine is an object of fascination. With 449 kW (610 hp) and maximum torque of 560 Newton meters at 6,500 revolutions per minute, it is the most powerful series-production engine from the brand with the four rings. Compared with the Audi R8 Spyder V10 (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.7 [20.1 mpg] combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 277 [445.8 g/mi]), the naturally aspirated 5.2 FSI engine, with a high 12.7:1 compression ratio in the plus version, features a 52 kW (70 hp) boost in performance.

As a result, the top model sprints to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.3 seconds – 0.3 seconds faster – and achieves a top speed of 328 km/h (203.8 mph), an increase of 10 km/h (6.2 mph). Each hp only has to move 2.78 kilograms (6.1 lb).

In the NEDC, the R8 Spyder V10 plus consumes 12.5 liters per 100 kilometers (18.8 US mpg), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 292 grams per kilometer (469.9 g/mi). Its efficiency technologies include the cylinder on demand (COD) system, which deactivates one cylinder bank at low to medium loads, as well as dual injection in the intake manifold and combustion chambers. If the driver lets off the accelerator at a speed of over 55 km/h (34.2 mph), the engine disconnects from the drive – and the new R8 Spyder coasts at idle with minimal fuel consumption. When the car comes to a stop, a start-stop system deactivates the V10 engine.

The oil supply is designed according to the dry sump principle, like that of a racing car. This enables the engine to be positioned extremely low, giving the car an extremely low center of gravity – a requirement for the sporty and agile driving behavior.

Stability and dynamics: the quattro drive

Behind the V10 there is a seven-speed S tronic with lightning-fast action. The sporty dual-clutch transmission, with its short transmission ratio, sends power to the quattro drive system in the front axle via a cardan shaft. Its key component is an electro-hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch. It is water-cooled for maximum performance. Depending on the driving situation, distribution of the drive torque by the clutch is completely variable, and in extreme cases sends up to 100 percent to one axle. A mechanical rear differential lock provides confident traction and maximum dynamics.

A question of character: Audi drive select

Management of the clutch is integrated in the Audi drive select dynamic driving system, which gives the driver a choice between the comfort, auto, dynamic and individual modes. The standard performance mode includes the programs dry, wet and snow. They adapt the characteristics of the drive system and suspension to the friction coefficient of the road.

Audi incorporates additional systems along with the quattro drive system – the accelerator pedal, the seven-speed S tronic, the steering, the flaps of the exhaust system and the optional Audi magnetic ride adaptive damper control, which uses a synthetic oil with small magnetic particles to vary damping in auto, comfort and dynamic modes. In dynamic mode, the system allows a more spontaneous steering response and more agile handling. The wheels are precisely braced during cornering and body roll is largely suppressed. During braking, Audi magnetic ride counteracts the tendency of the body to dip. The performance programs from Audi drive select also make use of Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) for the best possible lap times.

The racing car as a role model: the suspension

All four wheels of the Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.5 l/100 km [18.8 US mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 292 [469.9 g/mi]) are guided through aluminum double wishbone suspensions – this solution also demonstrates the model line's closeness to motorsport. The setup is firm and the electromechanical power steering offers the ideal specific combination of precision, handling and confident high-speed behavior for a sports car. Dynamic steering with variable steering ratio is available as an option. This boosts the car’s responsiveness at all speeds, providing high-performance cornering characteristics and quick steering behavior. It countersteers with tiny impulses at the cornering limit to further improve stability.

Audi mounts a mix of tires – 245/35 on the front, 295/35 on the back – on the standard 19-inch forged aluminum wheels in five twin-spoke design. On the optional 20-inch wheels, 245/30 and 305/30 tires are used. The large brake discs – 380 millimeter (15.0 in) diameter in front, 356 millimeters (14.0 in) in back – are manufactured from extremely durable, temperature-resistant and lightweight carbon fiber ceramic composite. The anthracite gray fixed calipers feature six pistons on the front axle and four in the rear.

Laser light and carbon components: the design

The R8 Spyder V10 plus has an angular and athletic stance on the road. It is 4.43 meters (14.5 ft) long and 1.94 meters (6.4 ft) wide, but just 1.24 meters (4.6 ft) tall. The most distinctive element on the front is the wide and flat Singleframe grille with its gloss honeycomb mesh, chrome-plated frame and the Audi Sport emblem. Below it stretches a low-lying carbon spoiler, which directs air around the large wheels. Optional Audi laser light in the LED headlights provides farsighted vision at night. These feature distinctive illuminated, anodized blue dividers as well as the dynamic turn signals.

A continuous shoulder line spanning the flanks emphasizes the taught line of the body. The sideblades, sill trim, lid on the convertible top compartment and the fixed rear spoilers are constructed from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). They are distinguishing features of the open-top model. If desired, Audi can paint the sills and rear spoiler in the color of the car at no extra charge. In the rear, large, glossy black trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes flank the opening of the wide diffuser, another component made from CFRP. Its suction literally holds the Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus on the road – with about 100 kilograms (220.5 lb) of downforce being placed on the rear axle at top speeds.

Classic concept: the soft top

Typically Audi: the exterior skin of the cloth top is fabric, the substructure is primarily made from lightweight materials like magnesium and aluminum. Consequently, the cloth top weighs just 44 kilograms (97.0 lb) and contributes significantly to the low weight and low center of gravity of the R8 Spyder V10 plus. Two fins running to the rear tighten the top. An electrohydraulic drive takes 20 seconds to open or close the top, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.1 mph). Folded in a Z-shape, it is housed in a flat storage compartment over the engine.

The rear window is sunk into the bulkhead and can be retracted and extended electrically. With all of the windows closed and the optional wind deflector installed, the wind passes gently over the driver and passenger. Two steel sections pretensioned by springs in the convertible top module serve as roll-over protection.

Lightweight body: the Audi Space Frame

The multimaterial Audi Space Frame forms the strong backbone of the R8 Spyder V10 plus (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.5 l/100 km [18.8 US mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 292 [469.9 g/mi]). It combines aluminum components with components made of structurally integrated carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). This is decisive for the low weight of the open-top high-performance sports car. Empty and without a driver, it weighs only 1,695 kilograms (3,736.8 lb); dry weight is just 1,587 kilograms (3,498.7 lb) – another 25 kilograms (55.1 lb) less than the Audi R8 Spyder V10 (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.7 [20.1 mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 277 [445.8 g/mi]). The lower weight is achieved, for one, with the R8 bucket seats, as well as with the carbon-ceramic brake system and the light-alloy forged wheels.

The aluminum parts make up 79.6 percent of the weight and constitute a supporting structure that the engineers used especially to strengthen the sills, A-pillars and front windshield frame of the car in comparison with the R8 Coupé (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.3 – 11.4* [19.1 – 20.6 US mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 287 – 272* [461.9 – 437.7 g/mi]. The outer skin is likewise made primarily of aluminum. The center tunnel, rear panel and B-pillars are made from extremely tough and torsion-resistant CFRP. In addition to the selection of materials, innovative manufacturing methods have also reduced the weight of many components. The Audi Space Frame weighs just 208 kilograms (458.6 lb), while its torsion-resistance has increased more than 50 percent compared to the first R8 generation. This rigidity is the decisive parameter for driving precision, crash safety and acoustic comfort.

As you wish: customization

With the Audi exclusive program, the possibilities are almost limitless for customers to personalize their R8 Spyder V10 plus. In addition to the 11 regular paint finishes, the program also includes freely selectable colors and matt-effect paint finishes. The convertible top is available in three colors, and the side blades can be selected in five colors. Like the door sill trim, the side blades can also be personalized with insignia as well as designed in colors according to customer tastes. In addition, parts in carbon or titanium black are available for many areas of the exterior and interior. Numerous upholstery types, inlays, and colors add to the wide range of options.

Aggressive look: the Audi exclusive micrommata green design package

The optional micrommata green design package lends the convertible high-performance sports car the ultimate edge. Its body is painted in a distinctive green. The anthracite gray Singleframe grille and black tailpipe covers create a sharp contrast. Audi exclusive furnishes the interior completely in black, in fine Nappa leather, which is perforated on control elements. Green contrast stitching accents the seats, center armrests, doors and floor mats with luminous color that matches the exterior.

Driver-focused: cockpit and controls

R8 bucket seats come standard in the top convertible model. They are light, highly contoured, mounted low and bear the R8 embossing. They are upholstered in fine Nappa leather with special pigmenting that stops them from heating up in the sun’s rays. Decorative inlays are made from carbon; the pedals and footrest are in glossy stainless steel. The defining element is the “monoposto”, a large arc running around the cockpit. The dashboard appears to float weightlessly. Its lower section contains buttons and controls for the air conditioning, shaped like turbines.

As in a racing car, drivers can operate all important functions without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. The standard R8 performance leather steering wheel features integrated multifunction buttons as well as two large control satellites. The driver uses these to start and stop the engine and control Audi drive select. Two more buttons including a rotary wheel are used to control the performance mode and the exhaust flaps.

The large 12.3-inch, fully digital Audi virtual cockpit presents all information using rich 3D graphics – if desired, in a special performance view that puts the focus on the rev counter. It also serves as a gear shift indicator – when the seven-speed S tronic is being operated in manual mode, its scale has a color background at higher engine speeds. Next to it are indicators showing output, torque, g-forces, lap times and the temperatures of the tires, engine and transmission oil.

High bandwidth: infotainment and Audi connect

The standard equipment package for the R8 Spyder V10 plus (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.5 l/100 km [18.8 US mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 292 [469.9 g/mi]) includes a superb infotainment system – the MMI navigation plus with MMI touch. It features impressive and intuitive control logic with flat hierarchies. Added to this is a free text search that delivers suggested hits after only a few letters are typed in. The natural-language voice control function also recognizes many terms from everyday speech. Standard seatbelt microphones provide for optimal audio quality, even when the top is down. In addition, the MMI navigation plus has an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for the mobile devices of passengers.

The optional Audi connect module enables fast internet access via LTE. Its offerings include numerous services ranging from navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View to travel and traffic information as well as point-of-interest searches. In addition, the Audi smartphone interface also displays selected content from iOS and Android smartphones in the Audi virtual cockpit. The optional Audi phone box connects mobile phones to the on-board aerial and charges them inductively in line with the Qi standard. The Bang & Olufsen sound system provides an excellent audio experience – even while driving with the top down. It integrates two head restraint loudspeakers in each seat.

Handcrafted manufacture: the “Audi Böllinger Höfe” production facility

The quality of the R8 Spyder V10 plus (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.5 l/100 km [18.8 US mpg]; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 292 [469.9 g/mi]) fulfills the most stringent standards. The body and final assembly are completed in the “Audi Böllinger Höfe” production facility operated by Audi Sport near Neckarsulm. The processes are organized to be highly flexible so that individual customer requests can be fulfilled. About 500 highly qualified employees construct the cars by hand with meticulous care. Before they are delivered, each high-performance sports car is put through a stringent test procedure until their final test drive on public roads.

Orders are now being accepted for the Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus, and the first cars will be delivered in late summer 2017. The base price in Germany is 207,500 euros.

A new R8 Spyder? Just in time for autumn…
Well, yes. But if ever there’s been a convertible that’s not about merely sunning yourself, it’s this one. The Audi R8 Spyder is a supercar with occasional tanning facilities, rather than a cabriolet hopelessly trying to be sporty. And this is the most powerful one yet.

The second-generation Spyder launched last year, with only the R8’s lesser-powered V10 available. Its 533bhp was hardly lacking, mind. But now Audi has snaffled the 602bhp, 5.2-litre V10 from the range-topping R8 Plus and slotted it under the long rear deck of the drop-top. The R8 Spyder Plus is precisely £15,000 more than the standard Spyder. Which means it tops £145,000.

That’s a lot.
Yep, Audi’s charging VW Polo money for a VW Up-sized power increase. But the Plus treatment doesn’t end at another 69bhp.

There’s also a copious amount of carbon trim – fixed rear spoiler included – plus standard-fit bucket seats, ceramic brakes and variable Performance modes for the powertrain. That adds up to over £13,000 in options on a standard R8, leading us to conclude this Plus is far and away the value choice of the range.

There’s also 25 kilos of weight loss, which alongside the additional power, slices the Spyder’s 0-62mph time to 3.3secs, a 0.3sec drop. The top speed also climbs past the 200mph mark, to 204mph. And while we’re talking value, it’ll do 22mpg and it emits 292g/km of CO2. Yeah, they’re worse than before. Let’s move on.

Move on to how it drives, please.
All that is good about R8s is here in spades, it’s just marginally quicker and sharper. I think you’d need some timing gear and a very straight piece of track to really tell them apart in terms of performance, though.

It’s not that a 13 per cent power increase is small, it’s just that, on top of an already quite plump power figure, it doesn’t make itself obvious. And despite being absurdly quick, speed isn’t the R8’s USP anyway – it’s the noise and drama it makes attaining that speed. There are no turbos, so you can rev and rev (and rev some more). The redline sits past 8,000rpm.

And holy hell, it sounds good. This is where the Spyder’s USP comes to the fore, too. Our entire time with it was accompanied by sodden tarmac and unrelenting rain. Yet at no point did we wish the sun would come out. That’s because the R8 offers two solutions to sub-ideal Spyder conditions.

One, you can drop the little glass window behind your head, and the V10’s sensational wail pours into your ears through the letterbox gap that remains. Two, you can drop the roof entirely (a 20-second, fully electric operation) and drive at a speed the rain can’t scientifically hit you at.

Really?
No. That theory’s almost certainly nonsense. But wet weather is ideal for feeling thoroughly involved in what the chassis is doing. The mixture of 602bhp, extraordinary four-wheel-drive grip and a whip-crack seven-speed paddleshift gearbox means that, in the dry, this is a car with almightily high limits.

With a bit of dampness, though, and with the electronic nannies loosened – quickly done by twiddling the little chequered flag dial on the steering wheel, which unlocks the Dry, Wet and Snow options of Performance mode – you can start to feel like you’re make a useful input into which direction the R8’s pointing.

Bad stuff? This is still a 1.7-tonne car, and while it shrugs off its mass with hilarious abandon in a straight line (and around corners, too), you’ll feel it on the brakes. On track – hardly a natural clime for a cabrio, but a good place for testing a car this powerful – the brakes have an unenviable task on their hands, and wilt surprisingly early for ceramics. At normal road speeds, though, they should be adequate.

Tell me about the Plus’s other goodies.
After the Performance knob and the brakes, the next biggie is the bucket seats. These might be contentious. They have less adjustment than standard R8 seats, which in the coupe, isn’t an issue. But the Spyder isn’t just a simple roof chop, and its more reinforced structure slightly shortens the R8’s cabin.

Taller drivers might find the Spyder a little tight inside, so it’s probably worth having an actual sit in some cars if you’re over six foot, and not just prod wantonly on the nicest bits of the configurator without visiting a dealership.

Mind, the seats can make a tremendously nerdy boast: their Nappa leather has special pigmenting to stop them heating up when they’re hammered by the sun’s rays. A rainy couple of days in Scotland didn’t give us the chance to try out that particular claim. But they did make us fall for the R8 Spyder Plus. Wintry weather may be coming, but this is a convertible that will laugh it off.

Puristic driving dynamics: the new Audi R8 V10 RWS

• First Audi production model with rear wheel-drive as a limited edition
• 50 kilograms (110.2 lb) lighter than R8 Coupé V10
• Stephan Winkelmann, Managing Director Audi Sport GmbH: “R8 V10 RWS successfully brings driving concept of our R8 LMS racing car to the streets”

The Audi Sport GmbH is extending its R8 model series to include a new derivative with rear-wheel drive. The Audi R8 V10 RWS (Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.6 – 12.4, combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 286 – 283**) comes in a limited series of 999 units with both Coupé and Spyder variants. It will be rear-driven (Rear Wheel Series) and be built exclusively by hand at the Böllinger Höfe R8 factory.

“The R8 V10 RWS is made for purists,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. “A limited-edition special model for customers with an appreciation for essential driving enjoyment, the R8 V10 RWS is an absolutely exclusive offer. With its mid-mounted V10 engine and rear-wheel drive, it successfully brings the driving concept of our R8 LMS racing car to the streets.”

Matt black design elements, optional films

The puristic character of the new R8 variant is underscored by the matt black grille of the Singleframe and the matt black air apertures at the front and rear of the car. The upper sideblade (of the Coupé) is finished in gloss black, the lower blade in the body color. Similar to the R8 LMS GT 4, the Coupé is available with an optional red film running over the front bonnet, roof and rear end. Inside, the driver and passenger sit in sport seats covered in leather and Alcantara. Bucket seats are available as an option. The dashboard bears an emblem “1 of 999,” indicating the limited number of units.

5.2 FSI engine – one of the last naturally aspirated engines in its segment

The mid-mounted V10 engine of the Audi R8 V10 RWS produces 397 kW (540 hp). It delivers its peak torque of 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. The 5.2 FSI engine accelerates the Coupé from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62.1 mph) in 3.7 seconds (Spyder: 3.8 seconds) and beyond to a top speed of 320 km/h (198.8 mph) (Spyder: 318 km/h [197.6 mph]). With the top closed, average fuel consumption of the R8 V10 RWS is 12.4 liters per 100 kilometers (19.0 US mpg), corresponding to 283 grams CO2 per kilometer (455.4 g/mi). With the top open, these figures are 12.6 liters (18.7 US mpg) and 286 grams CO2 per kilometer (460.3 g/mi).

Specially tuned chassis setup allows controlled drifts

The Coupé weights 1,5090 kilograms (3,505.3 lb) (without driver). 50 kilograms (110.2 lb) less than the R8 Coupé with all-wheel drive which needs additional components like propshaft, multi-plate clutch and center differential. The Spyder is 40 kilograms (88.2 lb) lighter than the R8 Spyder V10, weighing in at 1,680 kilograms (3,703.8 lb) (without driver). The axle load distribution of 40.6:59.4 (Coupé) and 40.4:59.6 (Spyder) together with chassis and handling tuning specially adapted for rear-wheel drive provide for incredibly fun driving.

The chassis setup and control systems allow controlled drifts if the driver chooses “dynamic” mode in the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system and sets the Stabilization Control ESC to “Sport”. The ESC intervenes reliably at the limit. The electromechanical power steering is completely free of torque steer and enables precise handling. The Audi R8 V10 RWS rolls standard on black-finished, 19-inch, cast aluminum wheels in a five-spoke V-design, with 245/35 tires up front and 295/35 at the rear.

The Audi R8 V10 RWS will be available for order in Germany and other european countries from autumn 2017, and from the beginning of 2018 the first units will hit the streets.The Coupé starts at 140,000 euros, the Spyder at 153,000 euros.

We’ve discussed the possibility of a less expensive, V6-powered Audi R8 before. The old 333-hp supercharged mill from the S4 would have worked well, but it seems the company decided on the 434-hp, 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 from the Porsche Panamera, which could be upgraded to 500 or more hp in a new R8.

The joint-venture engine, between Audi and Porsche, makes sense considering the brand would like to sell the R8 in China, where road tax is linked to engine size. A 2.9-liter could be almost half the tax burden of the current 5.2-liter V10. It’ll also put out fewer emissions.

The only visual changes, according to Autocar, look to be smaller exhaust baffles behind the rear grilles. That’s where Audi put the camouflage on development cars, hence we expect the changes to be focused there.

Like we said last time, if Audi can somehow pair this V6 to its rear-wheel drive
R8 for around $100K, it could be a new competitor to the Mercedes-AMG GTs, Jaguar F-Types and Porsche 911s of the world. And again, if it added the gated shifter from the original, it would sell at least one, to me, in about 10 years. And isn’t that enough!?

Back in March, Audi R&D boss Peter Mertens dropped the bombshell news that the Audi Sport division didn't have any plans drawn up yet for a third-generation R8.

It didn't mean Audi Sport was definitely going to axe the car after the current model's run, but it did leave the possibility on the table.

A new report out from Autocar on Wednesday claims Audi Sport has since decided to go ahead with a third-generation R8 powered exclusively by an electric powertrain.

Without citing a source, the British publication reported the car will arrive around 2022 and move into hypercar territory thanks to a 1,000-horsepower output.

A spokesperson for Audi said details for the next R8 haven't been locked in and all options are still on the table. Audi has, however, hinted at an electric supercar with the unveiling of the PB18 e-tron concept during last month's Monterey Car Week.

The concept featured a 95-kilowatt-hour solid state battery and a trio of electric motors for a combined output of 764 horsepower and 612 pound-feet of torque. The concept also featured almost identical dimensions to the R8.

With Audi planning to launch multiple electric cars in the coming years and ultimately transition to a fully electric lineup, it's natural the brand's performance division also goes the electric route. In fact, Audi sport has already confirmed plans to launch the e-tron GT electric super sedan in 2020.

Audi Sport also has some experience with electric performance. The division rolled out an electric version of the original R8 in 2013 but killed the project at the last minute after performance was shown to lag the less expensive Tesla Model S. Audi Sport gave the electric R8 another go with the second-generation R8 in 2015 but stopped sales after just one year due to a lack of interest. The car was still slower than a Model S and cost more than $1 million. Hopefully Audi Sport gets it right the third time around.

A 456 kW (620 hp) V10 engine, bronze-colored highlights inside and out, and strictly limited: Audi is celebrating the success story of the V10 engine with the Audi R8 V10 Decennium. The edition model with 222 units coincides with the sales launch of the new Audi R8. The name Decennium comes from Latin and means "decade." It stands for ten years of fascination on the road and success in motorsport.

Right from the exterior design, the Audi R8 V10 Decennium makes its character abundantly clear. The special model is available as a coupé and painted in exclusive Daytona Gray, matt effect. The milled 20-inch wheels and the intake manifold of the 5.2 FSI engine are finished in matt bronze. The front spoiler, the side sills and the diffuser are painted in gloss black, supplemented by black Audi rings and badges on the exterior. The side blades and the exterior mirror housings are made from gloss carbon fiber. Alternatively, there is a choice of the exterior colors Daytona Gray, pearl effect; Suzuka Gray, metallic; Floret Silver, metallic; Mythos Black, metallic; Ascari Blue, metallic and Kemora Gray, metallic.

The interior of the Audi R8 V10 Decennium is also finished entirely in black, with the inlays in gloss carbon fiber adding highlights. The quilted rhombus pattern stitching on the sport seats is finished in gloss black; the contrasting stitching in a gloss copper tone. The selector lever and the steering wheel - with Alcantara rim and black 12 o'clock marking - feature copper-colored stitching, as do the center armrest, the door armrest and the door rail.

A "Decennium" logo adorns the center console, the doors, the inlays in the gloss carbon fiber door sill trims as well as the logo projector. The badge in the center console stands out visually from the gloss carbon fiber around it. It comes with a partially matt finish - a process patented by Audi. The surface of the material is roughed a few thousandths of a millimeter using a special powder. The door light projects the "Decennium" logo onto the ground, supplemented by the model's sequential limited-edition number. As with all R8 variants, the Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI navigation plus come standard.

The naturally aspirated 5.2 FSI in its most powerful output rating forms the heart of the Audi R8 V10 Decennium. With 456 kW (620 hp) and maximum torque of 580 Nm (427.8 lb-ft) it catapults the edition model from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 331 km/h (205.7 mph). The Audi R8 V10 Decennium will be available from spring 2019 on and will cost 222.000 EUR in Germany, including an exclusive car cover with bronze-colored "Decennium" embroidery.

The high-performance sports car has an even sharper exterior design; suspension and performance have been improved once again: The two naturally aspirated engines available for the volume-production model now develop 419 kW (570 hp) and 456 kW (620 hp). Modifications to the interior equipment round out the range of options. The price for the R8 Coupé V10 quattro is 166.000 EUR. The R8 Spyder V10 quattro starts at 179.000 EUR. The performance variants begin at 200.000 EUR for the Coupé and 213.000 EUR for the Spyder.

A decade of success: the V10 engine in the Audi R8
The V10 naturally aspirated engine found its way into the Audi R8 in two versions in early 2009 - with a displacement of 5.2 liters, direct injection and a maximum output of 386 kW (525 hp).

In the R8 GT edition model launched in 2010 the ten-cylinder unit produced 412 kW (560 hp), while the R8 V10 plus (from 2012 onward) produced 404 kW (550 hp).

Audi extensively overhauled the 5.2 FSI for the second-generation R8, which followed in 2015: The addition of intake manifold fuel injection improved the exhaust gas characteristics, a COD system (cylinder on demand) disabled five cylinders in partial-load operation, thus increasing efficiency. And the fascination potential grew too: The 5.2 FSI now responded even more directly and revved up even faster. The sales launch offered a choice of variants with 397 kW (540 hp) and 449 kW (610 hp). The current upgrade further increases the power output to 419 kW (570 hp) and 456 kW (620 hp).

The defining characteristics of the V10 unit come from motorsport, including the high-rev concept up to 8,700 rpm and the dry sump lubrication that permits a low installation position. The cylinder banks of the V10 engine face each other at 90 degree angles. The crankshaft is designed as a common-pin shaft and alternates the ignition intervals between 54 and 90 degrees. The cylinder firing sequence of 1 - 6 - 5 - 10 - 2 - 7 - 3 - 8 - 4 - 9 creates a unique pulse and an unmistakable sound. At a maximum speed of 8,700 rpm the pistons cover an average 26.9 meters (88.3 ft) every second - surpassing today's Formula One figures. At this speed, the piston experiences an acceleration equivalent to a load of around two tons at its reversal points.

The high-performance engine also achieved great success on the racetrack, making its debut in the GT3 Sport in the Audi R8 LMS in 2009. The R8 LMS ultra followed in 2012, along with the second-generation R8 LMS in 2015, which was upgraded in fall 2018. In early 2018 the R8 LMS GT4 joined Audi Sport's customer sport program. In both GT categories the 5.2 FSI has only minimal differences to the volume-production engine. It dispenses with dual injection, in the intake passage there is an air restrictor, the control unit map characteristics and the bearing shells have been modified. With a service interval of 10,000 kilometers (6,213.7 mi) and mileage of 20,000 kilometers (12,427.4 mi) to the first overhaul, the 5.2 FSI sets new standards in motorsport. Many teams are even using it for additional cycles.

By the end of 2018, the drivers of the Audi R8 LMS GT3 won 62 overall driver rankings and 78 further titles in class rankings. The Audi drivers took overall victory in 24-hour races eleven times. Seven victories at 12-hour races and three wins at 25-hour races round off the ten year track record of the GT3 sports car.

Audi is ready for a new category in motor racing: The Audi R8 LMS GT2 stands for several superlative features in Audi Sport customer racing's program. With 470 kW (640 hp), it is by far the most powerful sports car in the eleven-year history of the customer racing program. The race car achieves its specific power output of 123 horsepower/per liter of displacement with a near-production-level 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine. With it, the weight-to-power ratio of the Audi R8 LMS GT2 amounts to some 2.1 kg/hp. From a historical perspective, in about four decades, there has never been an Audi Sport race car with a naturally aspirated engine with such a favorable ratio between homologation weight and engine power.

Finally free: Audi Sport delivers the fascinating V10 engine in the GT2 model in a way that allows it to naturally aspirate air totally unrestricted also in racing and thus achieves its so far highest power output. Stéphane Ratel Organisation (SRO), which is responsible for the current GT2 regulations, gives center stage to the weight-to-power ratio as a leveling factor. Thus, with some 2.1 kg/hp, a balance is to be created between GT2 race cars using naturally aspirated engines and nominally clearly more powerful models with turbocharged engines.

This idea aims to close a gap in international GT racing. Audi Sport customer racing has been present in GT3 racing with the R8 LMS since as far back as 2009 and in the GT4 entry-level category since 2018. With very high aerodynamic downforce and ample pedigreed racing technology, the GT3 model, in terms of expense, setup and vehicle control, tends to address pros. The GT4 category offers young drivers being promoted from lower categories, as well as amateurs and gentlemen, a GT race car that is easy to control and very economical in terms of purchasing costs. While the GT2 race car outperforms both models with regard to engine power and top speed, its concept is designed to be nearly as fast as a GT3 when it comes to lap times. Hence its high longitudinal dynamics with limited lateral acceleration primarily addresses gentlemen drivers. This is precisely the target group for which the new GT2 class has been created.

In terms of technology, the Audi R8 LMS GT2 is based on the production version. The Audi Space Frame (ASF) with its intelligent material mix of aluminum and CFRP forms the basic structure of the race car, while a steel roll cage provides the required safety in racing. The geometry of the chassis corresponds to the Spyder version, just like the door cut-out. The extruded profiles in the roof area have been adopted from the Coupé. The cockpit section is completed by a slim-tailored hard top that gives the bodywork a unique, lean-sculptured look. Like the other body parts, it is made of CFRP for weight reasons. The cage consisting of tubes that, compared to the GT4 model, have a lower wall thickness but high strength due to higher-grade steel, additionally reduces mass. With a dry weight of 1,350 kilograms, the Audi R8 LMS GT2 tips the scales at 100 kilograms less than, for instance, the GT4 version.

Aerodynamically, the GT2 race car clearly differs from its siblings. Healthy temperature management of the engine is guaranteed by the voluminous radiator at the front end with CFD-optimized air flow channels. Unlike the GT3 and GT4, the vents are on the right and left, causing the air to flow past the windshield in order to avoid thermal conflicts with the engine's air intake on the roof. The sideblades in front of the rear wheels follow the form prescribed by the R8 Spyder. However, they expose a larger cross section for air intake. A new front splitter, CFRP underfloor sections and a rear diffusor featuring the well-known GT4 geometry, but made of CFRP in the GT2 model, channel the air underneath the race car. The innovative rear suspension of the rear wing enhances air flow to the car and generates further downforce on the rear axle.

The wheel suspension with double wishbones front and rear as a pure racing suspension has been redesigned for weight reasons. Audi Sport combines new hub carriers and wishbones with the brake calipers of the GT3 version on the front axle and the GT4 brake calipers on the rear axle. The suspension struts have been adopted from the same modular kit as their counterparts for GT3 and GT4. In the steering system with its electrohydraulic servo pump, Audi uses synergies from the GT4 modular kit.

Audi Sport has upgraded the electronic architecture including the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (ASR) and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) versus the GT4 model. New software enables a four-level adjustment of the systems and is in line with the needs of the field of application.

In terms of safety, the Audi R8 LMS GT2 is top-class too. The Audi Protection Seat PS 3 optimally surrounds and supports the driver, while safety nets on the sides provide another increase in protection. The fire extinguishing system and six-point harnesses satisfy the high FIA standards. The safety fuel cell matches the design in the GT4 model, but has a 15-liter catch tank with a fill level sensor. A quick-refueling valve for endurance events can be ordered as an option. The safety steering column is adjustable in height and length and the pedals with their quick-adjustment mechanism sit on rails. Consequently, a precise seating position can be individually set for any physique. The rescue hatch in the roof facilitates access for the extrication team in the event of an accident. In this way, it makes it possible to remove the helmet of the driver in need of help and to apply a Kendrick Extrication Device for stabilization. The windshield and the side windows are made of lightweight and strong Makrolon. The camera-based digital rear-view mirror is new because the race car has no rear window due to the voluminous intake system. The construction of the doors is new too. They are made of carbon fiber and together with the CFRP-AFRP side impact protection with aluminum honeycomb that has been mandatory since 2019 satisfy the latest safety requirements for side impact protection.

This comprehensive package of power and performance, fascination and safety predestines the Audi R8 LMS GT2 as an ideal race car for gentlemen drivers and automobile enthusiasts who would like to call a future collector's item their own.