The Audi R8 Thread

Facelifted Audi R8 sports sharper styling … and more power!

The facelifted Audi R8 has been revealed (in both Coupé and Spyder form), boasting a sharper design and increased power from its naturally aspirated V10. Interestingly, the V10 Plus range-topper has been renamed “V10 performance quattro”.

So, just how much more oomph does the refreshed R8 possess? Well, the 5,2-litre ten-cylinder in the base model has had its peak power hiked from 397 kW to 419 kW, while maximum torque is boosted by 10 N.m to 550 N.m. The result is a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 3,4 seconds (for the Coupé; the Spyder takes one-tenth longer) before topping out at 324 km/h (or two units lower for the convertible).

The flagship model, meanwhile, now makes 456 kW (up from 449 kW) and 580 N.m (an increase of 20 N.m), with the hardtop hitting 100 km/h from standstill in a claimed 3,1 seconds (and, again, the open-top model taking one-tenth longer). Top speed is capped at 331 km/h (or 329 km/h for the Spyder). Both versions of Audi Sport’s free-breathing V10 are now fitted with a particulate filter so as to meet the new WLTP regulations.

In addition, the Ingolstadt-based brand says modifications to the suspension and steering systems have resulted in “even more stability and precision”, while also claiming the drive select dynamic handling system modes have been “even more sharply” separated from one other.

Furthermore, the flagship gains three additional settings: dry, wet and snow. Audi says braking performance has also been improved, while the facelifted Audi R8 now ships standard on 19-inch alloys, with 20-inch items offered as an option.

In terms of styling, the updated R8’s grille boasts a wider, flatter line, while thick bars divide up the large air inlets, and three slits at the front edge of the bonnet provide a nod to the past (something we also saw on the new A1 Sportback revealed earlier in 2018). The new front splitter is wider, while under the bonnet the air filter is sited under a three-part cover, offered in a choice of plastic or carbon-fibre. Little appears to have changed at the rear.

Three exterior packages will be offered. Inside, new colour options include pastel silver with rock grey contrasting stitching, palomino brown with steel grey stitching, and black with utopia blue stitching.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/facelifted-audi-r8-sports-sharper-styling-power/
 
Facelifted Audi R8 and R8 Spyder Announced

Audi has revealed some details and images of its facelifted R8 and R8 Spyder supercars, which will be coming to SA in 2019. Some details!

The big change, other than the sharper looks, is that this facelifted Audi R8 is even more powerful. The naturally-aspirated screamer of a 5.2-litre V10 motor now produces 419 kW and 550 Nm, which is 22 kW and 10 Nm more than the outgoing car. Acceleration times are brisk, with the 0-100 kph dash dispatched in just 3.4 seconds. In the R8 V10 Performance model, it now pushes out 456 kW and 580 Nm, a 7 kW and 20 Nm increase. It's even more ballistic in an acceleration run as it takes just 3.1 seconds to hit 100 kph and will run onto a top speed of 324 kph. To meet the new stricter WLTP emissions standard, the new Audi R8 is fitted with a gasoline particulate filter.

Under the skin, there are also tweaks to the suspension which should improve stability and precision. The optional dynamic steering and electromechanical power steering has been retuned for assistance and feedback, with the aim of increasing precision, response and feedback. Audi Sport has loaded three additional stability programs into the mix: dry, wet and snow.

The Audi R8 comes with factory-fitted 19-inch alloy wheels, with ultralight 20-inch fully milled alloys being available as an option. There's the option of ceramic brake discs too. R8 customers can choose from up to three exterior packages, depending on the engine option and there are new metallic colors (Kemora Gray and Ascari Blue) too.

The new Audi R8 will reach German and other European dealerships in the first quarter of 2019 and while no official date has been set, it will be making its way to our shores in 2019 too. We'll be driving the new Audi R8 overseas in November, so stay tuned for more details.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/facelifted-audi-r8-and-r8-spyder-announced/45725/
 
Audi R8 Will Only Pack A V10 – V6 Rumors Squashed

A while back there were rumors swirling around the interwebs about a V6-powered Audi R8 arriving before the end of the year but it seems that is not happening after all.

The supercar’s project manager, Bjorn Friedrich, recently confirmed that the R8 will only be offered with a V10 engine, says CarThrottle, claiming that “it’s the best engine for the car” and thus they’ll “stick to it”.

Friedrich did not confirm or deny that the facelift R8 will bring another rear-wheel drive R8, so in all likelihood, this one is coming, too.

As a reminder, the facelifted base Audi R8 packs 562 hp (419 kW) up from 532 hp (397 kW) which allows the supercar to sprint to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.4 seconds and run to a top speed of 324 km/h.

The flagship model also got a power hike and is now referred to as the “V10 Performance Quattro” as opposed to the V10 Plus. It pushes out 612 hp (456 kW) which is a small gain from 602 hp (449 kW).

https://www.zero2turbo.com/2018/11/audi-r8-will-only-pack-a-v10-v6-rumors-squashed.html
 
Audi R8 Performance 2018 review

Should I buy one?

It’s hard to say precisely how recommendable the R8 is without a longer test on the road as well, but one of the things that has made the R8 so appealing over the years is how smooth and rewarding it is as a road car; and it’s hard to conceive too much has changed there, given the relative paucity of the chassis changes.

Its interior is striking and yet, being an Audi, easy to live with. Given there’s much to enjoy about the V10 and the driving experience whether you’re on a hot lap or not, the R8 should remain as compelling a proposition as ever. It occupies a nice spot in its class, being a satisfyingly easy car to get along with yet with a livewire engine when you ask something of it. It melds usability and glamour into a pleasing compromise better than most.

Audi R8 Performance specification

Where Spain Price £144,000 (est) On sale March Engine 5204cc, V10, petrol Power 611bhp at 8000-8250rpm Torque 428lb ft at 6500pm Gearbox 7-spd dual clutch auto Kerb weight 1670kg Top speed 205mph 0-62mph 3.1sec Fuel economy 24mpg (est) CO2 290g/km (est) Rivals McLaren 570S, Porsche 911 Turbo S

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/audi/r8/first-drives/audi-r8-performance-2018-review

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DRIVEN: Audi R8 V10 Performance quattro S-Tronic

It’s dark, wet and miserably cold at Circuito Ascari, a privately owned and intricately curved test track on the outskirts of Ronda in southern Spain. All I have to guide me around the course is the Laser Light technology fitted to the updated Audi R8; its howling V10 sports upgraded outputs of 456 kW and 580 N.m of torque, all of which is dynamically apportioned to all four of the lithe supercar’s wheels of the via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The R8 has gained a reputation of being “an easy car to drive”, but on a sodden racetrack, shrouded in darkness, it’s a completely different story.

Despite being shod with the highly acclaimed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, the revised R8 makes it immediately clear (and abundantly so) that when it traverses a perilous road surface, its handling can inflict a rather nasty bite. As the Audi builds up speed, the road ahead of me is somewhat visible thanks to headlamps’ bright beams, but I fail to spot a puddle of water right in the middle centre of the straight. In an instant, the R8’s wheels lose their connection to the road and the mid-engined machine starts fishtailing in a manner that I’ve never experienced in an Audi performance model.

With the aid of the car’s intuitive electronic stability control, I enlist the new dynamic steering setup to centre out the R8’s sudden loss of composure. With order swiftly restored, in the blink of a proverbial eye the Audi hauls into the next corner, with its naturally aspirated 5,2-litre V10 spinning merrily to 8 400 r/min. It’s only 9°C in Spain, but inside the cabin things are definitely heating up.

Given its kerb weight of 1 595 kg, the R8 is quite a hefty supercar, which is most evident when you task the brakes with scrubbing off speed at a rapid rate. The eight-piston callipers clamp the 365 mm front carbon-ceramic disks with alacrity, which creates the sensation of the Audi’s nose pressing down on its axle. Despite this feeling, the stable, linear deceleration prepares me for the next high-speed corner. This is partly thanks to the fitment of a new carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer stability bar to the front axle; it works in conjunction with the car’s Magnetic Ride suspension setup.

The new dynamic steering system is optional. The electronic setup sacrifices the car’s steering feel and feedback, but it’s apparent that once you’ve become accustomed to it, it makes the R8 sharper, as if keener to change direction. From a driver’s perspective, it’s not as satisfying to use as it makes the car feel “less mechanical”, but if your main objective is speed, this system is worth considering.

As for the extra 7 kW and 20 N.m that this Performance derivative boasts over the preceding Plus version, from a driver’s perspective the difference is not noticeable. On paper, this gives the R8 a 0-100 km/h time that’s a tenth of a second faster (Audi’s claimed figure is 3,1). Top speed is bumped up to 331 km/h and, based on the car’s impressive in-gear acceleration, it’s quite a believable claim.

All of this is beside the point, however, as the R8 Performance that will be launched in South Africa late in 2019 will retain the power outputs of the current Plus (449 kW and 560 N.m of torque), but incorporate the subtle visual changes, which include the redesigned front bumper with expanded air intakes and a more angular design. It makes the supercar look lower, wider and more purposeful.

My favourite aesthetic update is the LMS race car-inspired rear diffuser replete with integrated oval exhaust ends. It contributes to a distinctive profile which, together with the optional 20-inch alloys and fixed carbon-fibre rear wing, make the R8 look a little reminiscent of its race track counterpart. Even if it’s not dramatically different in appearance to the pre-updated model, and errs on the side of understatement compared with its Italian and British rivals, Audi’s supercar is still a head turner.

Changes within the cabin are minimal. The cockpit carries over the characteristic driver-focused design with a digital dashboard and motorsport inspired steering wheel, which features the start button and driving mode selector (among other controls). What’s more, through the Audi Exclusive department, owners can create bespoke cabin executions by specifying optional insets and trims.

The facelifted Audi R8 doesn’t mark a major departure from the previous model: it remains a well-made, sophisticated machine; a respectful continuation of its lineage. During the launch event, Audi reaffirmed its commitment to the production of its supercar, which has become an iconic product of the brand. What’s will be the next step in the evolution of the R8? It’s difficult to make an educated guess, but many will be anxious to see if Audi will retain the legendary free-breathing V10 engine.

Model:Audi R8 V10 Performance quattro S-Tronic
Price:TBA
Engine:5,2-litre, V10
Power:456 kW
Torque:580 N.m
0-100 km/h:3,1 seconds
Top Speed:331 km/h
Fuel Consumption:14,8 L/100 km
CO2:287 g/km
Transmission:7-spd automatic
Maintenance Plan:Five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan

https://www.carmag.co.za/uncategorized/driven-audi-r8-v10-performance-quattro-s-tronic/
 
People Still Can't Get Enough of the Audi R8

The Audi R8, a car rumored to either be discontinued or drastically changed in the next few years, holds the top spot as the most desired modern supercar, according to data collected from search engine inquiries. It joins models from Bugatti and Lamborghini as the most-searched supercars.

According to research into Google search inquiries by Veygo, a car insurance provider, the Audi R8 tops the list of most-searched modern supercars, beating out the Bugatti Chiron, Bugatti Veyron, Lamborghini Aventador and Lamborghini Veneno.

The runners up to these top five included the McLaren 675LT, Ford GT and the Ferrari 458, according to Veygo’s data.

When the Audi R8 debuted in the U.S. in 2007, it was like an enthusiast fever dream. Audi, which at the time was mostly known for luxury sedans and rally cars, showed up almost out of nowhere with a mid-engine, 4.2-liter V8 all-wheel drive supercar with modern looks and a gated manual, and it blew us all away.

Now late into its second generation, it looks like the R8 continues to leave an impression on people since it’s the most-searched production supercar from the last 10 years, according to this data. Veygo claims the R8 was the number one search in the category in 95 countries out of 165 studied.

It seems like this internet interest is also translating into sales, at least in the U.S. According to data from Car Sales Base, the R8 had its second-best sales year since its 2007 debut in 2018, with 927 cars sold. It’s best-ever year was 1,145 cars sold in the U.S. in 2011.

It’s also interesting to note that every other car on the top of this list also comes from a brand owned by Volkswagen Group, like Audi.

That has to be, in part, a testament to just how good former VW Group Chairman Ferdinand Piëch was at developing legacy supercar projects. Rumor has it Bugatti will even show off an $18 million customized Chiron in honor of Piëch at next month’s Geneva Motor Show. Seems like he’s earned it.

https://jalopnik.com/people-still-cant-get-enough-of-the-audi-r8-1832937195

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Audi R8 V10 Decennium marks 10 years of production

Just 222 examples will be built to celebrate a decade of V10-powered R8 models

Audi has revealed a new limited-edition version of the R8 V10 Performance, called the Decennium.

The model is planned to be produced in a run of 222 at Audi Sport's Böllinger Höfe factory on the outskirts of Neckarsulm, Germany in homage to the launch of Audi’s V10 engine in the original R8 in 2009.

The Decennium name comes from the Latin for 'decade'.

Set to make a low-key debut at next week’s Geneva motor show, the R8 V10 Decennium will be offered in the coupé bodystyle only. It comes as standard with Daytona Grey matt paint, but buyers can choose from a further five colours in the R8 catalogue.

Among the details that differentiate the R8 V10 Decennium from the standard R8 V10 is a black gloss finish for the front spoiler, side sills and diffuser, while the carbonfibre side blades and exterior mirror housings receive a high gloss finish. The standard 20in wheels and the intake manifold are finished in matt bronze.

Power comes from the same mid-mounted, naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine as used in the regular second-generation R8 V10, with 611bhp and 428lb ft of torque. Drive is sent through a standard seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and quattro four-wheel drive system.

Audi claims a 0-62mph time for the R8 V10 Decennium that's 0.1sec inside that of the R8 V10 Performance, at 3.1sec, and a top speed of 206mph.

Inside, the limited-edition R8 features a 'Decennium' logo on its centre console and door sills. This is also displayed by puddle lamps integrated into the door mirror housings.

UK pricing is yet to be revealed, but Audi says the car will cost €220,000 (£188,000) in Germany. Deliveries are planned to begin in April.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/audi-r8-v10-decennium-marks-10-years-production

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Audi R8 V10 Decennium

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.

https://www.netcarshow.com/audi/2019-r8_v10_decennium/

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Ten years of the V10! Audi reveals R8 V10 Decennium

Audi has revealed a new limited-edition R8 V10 Decennium model to mark ten years of production of Ingolstadt’s V10-powered supercar.

The automaker says just 222 units (all in the coupé body style) will be built, with the name “Decennium” coming from Latin (and, of course, meaning “decade”).

The Audi R8 V10 Decennium will be available in an exclusive matte-effect Daytona Grey colour, although the German firm says a pearl effect version of the same hue, plus Suzuka Grey, Floret Silver, Mythos Black, Ascari Blue and Kemora Grey will also be offered.

The milled 20-inch wheels and the V10’s intake manifold are both finished in matte bronze, while the front spoiler, side sills and diffuser are painted in gloss black (matched by black Audi rings and badges on the exterior). Meanwhile, the side blades and the side-mirror caps are fashioned from gloss carbon-fibre.

The cabin is finished in black, with inlays in gloss carbon-fibre and a quilted rhombus pattern stitched into the sport seats in a copper tone. The gear lever and steering wheel (the latter trimmed in Alcantara) also boast copper-coloured stitching, as do the centre armrest, door armrests and door rails. A “Decennium” logo is repeated on the centre console, the doors and inlays in the door sill trims, while the door light projects the logo onto the ground.

Power comes from an unchanged naturally aspirated 5,2-litre V10 petrol engine, which makes the full-fat 456 kW and 580 N.m. This, says Audi, translates to a zero to 100 km/h time of 3,1 seconds and a top speed of 331 km/h.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/ten-years-of-the-v10-audi-reveals-r8-v10-decennium/
 
Latin inspired limited edition R8

Decennium edition marks a decade of Audi V10s.

Audi is celebrating the tenth anniversary of its mid-engined V10 supercar with a special edition offering. It’s called the Decennium and if you attended a posh school, you’ll know that means ‘decade’ in Latin.

Expect most of the 222 Decennium R8s to be finished in an exclusive Daytona grey surface colour, although customers will have option on five other, more vivid, hues. Differentiating the Decennium from other R8s is black gloss detailing on the front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser, which should contrast quite tidily with the Daytona grey’s matt finish.

Perhaps the most notable exterior styling detail to aid recognition of a Decennium R8 are its wheels and which are matt bronze in colour. The R8’s mid-mounted V10 powerplant, visible through its clear cover, also features bronzed intake manifolds, which are sure to appeal to engine bay aestheticists.

Inside there isn’t much difference from a standard R8 V10, but for the Decennium centre console logo and door sill badging. Open the door in a low-light or shaded environment and you’ll notice puddle lamps projecting an R8 Decennium logo onto the floor.

Mechanically the Decennium is no different from a regular R8 V10. That means you get a choice of 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10 in either 419- or 456kW, driving all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Find a high friction surface and if you disable your mechanical sympathy, the 456kW R8 Decennium will run a true 3.1 second 0-100kph time, before buffering at the edge of aerodynamics at 331kph. Not a traditional acceleration or speed statistic, but the R8 V10’s 8700rpm engine speed ceiling is a very novel part of its offering – especially in a world where turbocharged performance cars force you to shift gear a lot earlier than that.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/latin-inspired-limited-edition-r8/46227/
 
Audi R8 V10 2019 UK review

Should I buy one?

Driving the Audi R8 in this form really does feel like strapping on that Lamborghini V10 as if it was some super-low-altitude jetpack, and then howling off down the road. The engine is significantly greater and more special than what you’ll find in most rivals at its price, but it powers a car that has a curious lack of dynamic swagger, and perhaps a shortage of excitement and complexity about the rest of its driving experience.

We’ll report back on the differences made to that mixture by the new V10 Performance version’s stiffer suspension springs, and its optional lightweight anti-roll bar and dynamic steering set-up, when we can. And who knows, they may be telling.

Until then, the most striking point to observe here is how plainly Audi’s supercar seems to have reverted to the firm’s wider performance car dynamic character type over the years it has been with us. Because just over a decade ago, the original R8 4.2 had the handling smarts to win one of our annual Best Driver’s Car titles; it was a world-beating prospect.

But, having suffered a notable decline on driver appeal in transformation to its second model generation, the R8 now seems to have shed another layer of its old dynamic mystique. Were it not for that V10 engine it would now be hovering dangerously close to a descriptive status we've not found a use for in more than a decade-and-a-half of road testing: that of the boring supercar.

Audi R8 V10 Coupé specification

Where West Midlands, UK Price £128,200 On sale Now Engine V10, 5204cc, petrol Power 562bhp at 8100rpm Torque 413lb ft at 6300rpm Gearbox 7-spd twin-clutch automatic Kerb weight 1660kg Top speed 201mph 0-62mph 3.4sec Fuel economy 21.2-21.6mpg (WLTP combined) CO2 tbc Rivals McLaren 540C, Honda NSX

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/audi/r8/first-drives/audi-r8-v10-2019-uk-review

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Audi R8 Spyder 2019 UK review

Should I buy one?

At this price bracket, the £149,890 R8 Spyder V10 Performance does find itself in close proximity to some truly excellent driver’s cars - the McLaren 570S Spider among them. That car’s V8 might not be quite as special as the Audi’s V10, but it steers, handles and rides even better, and the kiwi-shaped badge on its nose carries far more prestige than the Audi’s four rings.

Is the Audi a thrilling supercar, though? Dynamically, it's a bit too serious, but that engine certainly is and it gives the R8 a strong USP next to rivals that are increasingly being downsized and turbocharged. It’s also the reason I’d opt for the Spyder over the coupé: it’s the car’s party piece, and the scope the folding roof provides to further bask in the glory of its atmospheric soundtrack is tough to ignore. It might not be the most descriptive supercar to drive, but its engine makes it an increasingly rare commodity. Savour it while it lasts.

Audi R8 Spyder V10 Performance specification

Where Hampshire, UK Price £149,890 On sale Now Engine V10, 5204cc, petrol Power 612bhp at 8000rpm Torque 428lb ft at 6600rpm Gearbox 7-spd twin-clutch automatic Kerb weight 1695kg Top speed 204mph 0-62mph 3.2sec Fuel economy 20.9-21.1mpg CO2 WLTP figures tbc Rivals McLaren 570S Spider, Porsche 911 GT3

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/audi/r8/first-drives/audi-r8-spyder-2019-uk-review

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