Audi’s halo performance model, the R8, has just been updated for 2013. In addition to the new interior and exterior details, there’s also new LED headlamp technology as well as a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. On top of all that, a range-topping R8 V10 Plus model has just been introduced as well.
One of the R8’s key features is its lightweight construction, due in no small part to its aluminum space frame body which weighs in at just 210 kg. Audi has upped the ante with the R8 V10 Plus and managed to reduce its weight by as much as 50kg compared with the standard V10 model.
The most obvious elements of the R8’s facelift are a new front bumper that boasts restyled air intakes, revised LED headlamps and large round tailpipes at each corner of the wide rump. The V10 models feature extra details such as chrome inserts on the gloss-black single-frame grille. The LED tail-lights of all models also feature “dynamic” turn signals that swipe in the indicated direction.
Carbon fibre-reinforced polymer also features prominently on the R8 V10 Plus, as the chosen material for the famed “sideblades” that flank the cabin, the prominent front spoiler and rear diffuser. The use of CFRP has also allowed Audi to keep the weight down on the R8 Spyder – the body of the drop-top model weighs just eight kilograms more than its coupe sibling. The fabric top opens and closes at the touch of a button in 19 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 50 km/h.
A 4,2-litre eight-cylinder engine that produces 316 kW and 430 N.m of torque powers the R8 V8, while the V10 model boasts a 10-cylinder powerplant that develops 386 kW and 530 N.m of torque. The revised V10 powerplant in the Plus model produces 404 kW and 540 N.m. Audi claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of approximately 3,5 seconds on the way to a 317 km/h top speed.
All R8 models feature the company’s quattro all-wheel drive system, and now make use of Audi’s new seven-speed S-tronic dual clutch transmission. Audi claims that the S tronic system improves fuel consumption by 0,9 litres/100 km and lessens CO2 emission by as much as 21 g/km.
Prices including VAT and a five-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway plan:
R8 Coupé V8: R1 529 000
R8 Spyder V8: R1 685 500
R8 Coupé V10: R2 037 500
R8 Spyder V10: R2 194 000
R8 Coupé V10 plus: R2 319 000