Audi Unveils the New R8 | Audi
Audi R8 | Audi R8
Audi's Flagship Sports Car, the R8, Undergoes a Full Model Change
Audi's new R8 will have its world premiere this March at the Geneva Motor Show. This second generation model is more modernized and boasts significantly improved performance. Based on the information revealed so far, automotive journalist Hiromi Takeda delves into the new R8.
Text by Hiromi Takeda
Audi's Latest Design Language
Audi's new R8, set for its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this March, recently released a teaser video of its test runs in camouflage.Test Run VideoThe official photos and overview of the new Audi R8 were announced on the 26th, prior to its unveiling at the show.
The Audi R8, named after the successful LMP racing car that achieved remarkable results in endurance races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, was launched in 2006 as Audi's flagship sports car, incorporating technology from its racing counterpart.
Audi R8 V10 plus
Audi R8 V10 plus
Perhaps due to it being the second generation of a globally successful R8, the design strongly evokes the image of the previous model. However, the incorporation of Audi's latest design language, including the hexagonal grille, has significantly modernized its appearance.
However, the most significant change is the removal of the "blade," the decorative panel that ran along the side of the body and was a distinctive design element of the previous R8 coupe. Some might argue that with the Audi supercar style now fully established, it's no longer necessary. Yet, given the strong following of the previous R8, this change may prove controversial.
Meanwhile, the interior adopts the "Audi virtual cockpit"...New Audi TT...New Q7...which was also featured in the new Q7. A key characteristic is the replacement of the instrument panel with a 12.3-inch display, allowing the driver to customize the displayed information.
Audi R8 | Audi R8
Audi's Flagship Sports Car, the R8, Undergoes a Full Model Change (2)
New R8 Available in Two Grades
While the previous model offered both V8 and V10 power units, the lineup is currently consolidated to V10 engines. Two grades will be available: the "R8 V10" with a maximum output of 540 ps and 540 Nm of torque, and the "R8 V10 Plus," which has been tuned up to 610 ps and 560 Nm of torque.
Both grades are equipped with an updated dual-clutch 7-speed sequential "S tronic" transmission. Audi's signature "quattro" AWD system is set to deliver 100 percent of torque to the rear wheels during normal driving.
Audi R8 V10
Audi R8 V10
Furthermore, the newly designed aluminum space frame, which utilizes carbon fiber in addition to aluminum alloys, has improved torsional rigidity by approximately 40 percent while achieving a 50 kg weight reduction compared to the previous model. The R8 V10 Plus weighs in at a mere 1,454 kg.
As a result, even the standard R8 V10 achieves a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h. The R8 V10 Plus boasts performance truly befitting a supercar, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h.
Additionally, the R8 V10 Plus differentiates itself from the R8 V10 not only through its engine output but also via standard equipment such as carbon fiber front splitters, side blades, rear diffusers, and rear wings, creating a distinct exterior appearance.
Audi R8 | Audi R8
Audi's Flagship Sports Car, the R8, Undergoes a Full Model Change (3)
Racing Model Developed in Parallel
What's particularly interesting about the announcement of the new Audi R8 is that Audi is already signaling the upcoming release of numerous variant models. One of these is the "R8 e-tron" EV version, boasting a total system output of 462 ps and 920 Nm of torque from its dual motors.EV Version "R8 e-tron"And then there's the "R8 LMS," designed for participation in sports car races worldwide.
The "R8 LMS" and "R8 LMS Ultra," FIA-GT3 machines developed and sold based on the previous R8, have competed successfully in various series, from the FIA GT Championship to Japan's SUPER GT and the Super Taikyu series. The confirmation of their successors' arrival is indeed significant.
Audi R8 V10 plus
Audi R8 V10 plus
The next-generation "R8 LMS," developed in accordance with the new FIA regulations effective from the 2016 season and slated for race debut that same season, has been developed in parallel with the road version, achieving a 50 percent parts commonality, including the engine.
The new R8 represents a natural evolution in every aspect of the previous model, which debuted and achieved success as Audi's first mid-engine sports car. Its full reveal awaits the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.