The Second-Generation Audi R8 Spyder

Approximately one year after the debut of the new R8 Coupe"R8 Spyder" has made its Japanese debut. The R8 Spyder, now in its second generation after a full model change seven years in the making, is powered by the same 5.2-liter V10 DOHC engine as the standard coupe model, delivering 540 ps and 540 Nm of torque. Thanks to a body that is 15% lighter than its predecessor, the 0-100 km/h acceleration time has been reduced by 0.2 seconds to 3.6 seconds.

While rigidity might be a concern for an open-top body, the adoption of the new-generation Audi Space Frame (ASF), which combines aluminum and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in its frame for a total weight of 208 kg, has improved torsional rigidity by 50% compared to the previous model.

The electro-hydraulic soft top is made of sound-insulating cloth. Its frame uses aluminum and cast magnesium, while the top compartment cover is made of CFRP. It opens and closes in approximately 20 seconds, and can be operated at speeds up to 50 km/h.

Beyond the roof's operation, the exterior's difference from the coupe is the honeycomb grille installed between the LED rear combination lights, creating a distinct expression.

The Audi R8 Spyder is priced at 26,180,000 yen and is scheduled to go on sale in early July at Audi Sport stores nationwide.

The Fastest TT Ever

The third-generation Audi TT, which debuted in Japan in 2015, is now arriving in the country. Third-Generation "TT"The top model of the "TTRS" is powered by a newly developed, all-aluminum, inline five-cylinder TFSI gasoline direct-injection turbo engine. Audi has a deep connection with five-cylinder engines, and Toru Saito, President of Audi Japan, commented, "This engine inherits the tradition of the original quattro and Audi's motorsport heritage, and this latest version has now been completed." He added, "It was developed with a particular focus on high output, economy, and weight reduction."

Specifically, through weight reduction technologies such as the adoption of a lightweight crankshaft, previous modelthe engine's weight has been reduced by 26 kg compared to the conventional model. Equipped with a new turbocharger, its maximum output is 60 hp higher than the previous model at 400 ps, and its maximum torque is increased by 30 Nm to 480 Nm. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 3.7 seconds (3.9 seconds for the Roadster), making it the fastest TT ever.

Furthermore, by placing a compact and lightweight electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch behind the propeller shaft, the front-rear weight distribution is optimized. In conjunction with Audi drive select (which allows selection of four driving modes: comfort, auto, dynamic, and individual), precise control is achieved, leading to "even better handling performance" compared to the previous model, according to Mr. Saito.

Regarding the TTRS's exterior, Mr. Saito stated, "The horizontal lines emphasized from the front air inlets to the diffuser further enhance the sporty design of the TT." The RS design, including the RS-specific front apron, three-dimensional single-frame grille with quattro logo, and the prominently flared front fenders, rear diffuser, and spoiler lip, clearly differentiates it from other models.

Another distinctive exterior feature is the adoption of organic LEDs (OLEDs) for the taillights, a first for Audi (optional). Mr. Saito highlighted its benefits, stating, "OLEDs offer clear contrast, allow for partial brightness adjustment, consume less power, and reduce the weight of the lighting units."

The Audi TTRS Coupe is priced at 9.62 million yen, and the Roadster at 9.78 million yen. Orders will begin on March 28th, with sales commencing in mid-May through authorized Audi dealers and Audi Sport stores nationwide.

The First RS3 Sedan Appears

The final model announced this time is the Audi "RS3 Sedan". This is the first sedan model in the RS3 lineage.

Compared to the previous "RS3 Sportback", announced domestically in the fall of 2015, the engine output has increased by 33 hp to 400 ps, with a maximum torque of 480 Nm available from 1,700 to 5,850 rpm. By adopting an aluminum alloy crankcase, the engine's weight has been reduced by 26 kg compared to the previous 2.5 TFSI (which used a cast iron crankcase), resulting in a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.1 seconds.

Simultaneously, the adoption of dual injection, which sprays gasoline into both the intake manifold and combustion chamber, and Audi Valvelift System (AVS), which variably controls the opening and closing timing of the exhaust valves, has improved not only output performance but also fuel efficiency. Fuel consumption is kept to just 8.3 liters per 100 km (approximately 12.0 km/l) in the European driving cycle (NEDC).

This model also clearly adopts the design language of the RS model family, with RS-specific front bumpers with spoilers, a three-dimensional single-frame grille with a sharper quattro logo, and prominently flared front fenders, rear diffuser, and spoiler lip asserting its RS identity. Furthermore, the taut suspension has resulted in A3 Sedana 25 mm lower ride height compared to the "

Mr. Saito commented, "In addition to the RS3 Sedan, we plan to introduce an improved version of the "Sportback also receives an update" Sportback within the year. The previous RS3 Sportback has sold 400 units since its introduction in the fall of 2015 and is a highly popular model. I am strongly confident that the sedan being released this time will be equally well-received by many Japanese fans as the Sportback."

The Audi RS3 is priced at 7.85 million yen and is scheduled for release in early July, available at Audi Sport and authorized Audi dealerships.