Audi has finally taken the wraps off the second generation of the R8 supercar. The reveal of the car has been on the cards for some time now, and we'll finally get to see it in the flesh at the Geneva Motor show.
The new Audi R8 receives evolutionary styling, which is why we see the familiar single-frame front grille with a honeycomb pattern, flanked by standard flat LED head-lights or optional laser lighting clusters, which double the range to 600 meters.
The side profile of the car gets curved contours and a prominent shoulder line interconnecting the wheels, and also dividing the side blades in two. This makes the R8 look longer than before, according to Audi. The LED tail-lights sit above the generously sized air inlets that give the R8 its muscular stance.
There's also a retractable rear spoiler, though the Plus model gets a carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) fixed wing. The large diffuser sits between trapezoidal exhaust pipes, while the rear window provides for a view of the heart.
As far as the engine goes, the Audi R8 gets a 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 that will be offered in two states of tune - 540bhp and 610bhp (the V10 Plus model).
In terms of performance, the Audi R8 will need 3.5 seconds for a 0-100Km/h run before topping out at 320Km/h. On the other hand, the Plus model does the sprint in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 330Km/h.
Both versions of the engine are mated to an updated 7-speed S-tronic gearbox with three automatic modes and manual control. It sends power to a permanent quattro all-wheel drive system equipped with a front electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch. The rear end hosts a mechanical differential lock, which helps provide optimal traction on any road condition.
The new Audi Space Frame combines several materials like aluminum and CFRP to enable a lightweight construction. The R8, hence, weighs just 1555 Kg, while the V10 Plus is even lighter at 1454 Kg. This makes the car up to 50 Kg lighter than its predecessor. Audi has also managed to up the torsional rigidity by approximately 40 per cent.
Inside, the Audi R8 sports newly-developed bucket seats and a driver-oriented cockpit that features an uncluttered design. Many of the buttons and knobs have been replaced by the configurable 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit. Customers will have to choose between Alcantara/pearl Nappa leather and fine Nappa leather upholstery, and will be able to add clear coated carbon fibre accents. At an additional cost, one can get a 500-Watt Bang & Olufsen sound system along with an Audi phone box.
Of course, the car will come to India, and we are hoping to see it here this year itself, considering that Audi is going all out to defend its numero uno spot here.
