Next-generation Audi R8 details revealed

Audi has officially released the details of the 2nd generation R8 supercar. The new R8 features evolutionary design updates and will initially be offered with a naturally aspirated V10 engine in two states of tune. In the lower variant, the 5.2-litre mill produces 532 BHP and 540 Nm of torque, while the higher variant makes 602 BHP and 560 Nm of torque. The power is transmitted through a 7-speed S tronic transmission to a newly developed quattro drive system.

The top end R8 V10 Plus weighs in at 1,454 kgs and the dry weight is down by around 50 kgs in comparison to the outgoing model. On the R8 V10 Plus, 0-100 km/h comes up in a claimed 3.2 seconds and the car hits a top speed of 330 km/h. The less powerful R8 V10 on the other hand manages a 0-100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds and hits a top speed of 323 km/h.

The second generation of the Audi R8 forms the basis for more models, including the R8 e-tron. The new R8 e-tron makes 456 BHP and 920 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h comes up in 3.9 seconds and the car manages a claimed range of over 450 kms.

As standard, the new Audi R8 V10 has 19-inch wheels with size 245/35 tyres up front and 295/35 at the rear. Audi will also offer optional 20-inch wheels for the first time in the R8. With this option, the tyres are size 245/30 at the front and 305/30 at the rear.

Cosmetic changes include a new honeycomb mesh front grille, redesigned air vents and standard LED lights with optional laser headlamps that boost the high beam range to 600 metres. On the sides, the shoulder line connects the wheels and the car gets well pronounced body contours that add a muscular appeal.

At the rear, the air vents appear smaller and connect to the sleek tail lights. The two tailpipes of the exhaust system have a trapezoidal design and the rear window offers a clear view of the illuminated engine compartment. The R8 is equipped with an electrically extending spoiler, while the R8 V10 plus gets a fixed wing made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). Ten standard exterior colours are available and the R8 V10 plus gets an additional matt paint finish camouflage green as well.

Prices start at 165,000 euros (INR 1.15 Crore approx) for the R8 V10 and 187,400 euros (INR 1.31 Crore approx.) for the range topping R8 V10 plus. The new Audi R8 is produced at the new Bollinger Hofe quattro GmbH production site and sales will begin around May-June 2015.