The Audi R8 is the fastest volume-production model of the Audi sport brand offered in both a Coupe version and Spyder version boasting an even sharper
design. Although the official launch in South Africa has been announced for the 1 st April 2021, VIP customers have started taking delivery of the R8 V10 as part of Audi’s pre-launch strategy. So, let’s look at why super car enthusiasts are so excited about the latest Audi R8 to be launched to the world.
Power and torque: The engine.
The 5,2 FSI in the R8 V10 quattro continues to offer 449 kW with peak torque at 560 Nm. Instant response, lightning-fast high-revving producing a unique sound from the naturally aspirated V10 engine. The coupe sprints from 0 to 100km/hr in 3,2 seconds and the Spyder 3,3 seconds. Standard R8 sports exhaust system and 7-speed S tronic transmission propels the car to a top speed of 329 km/hr.
Razor sharp precision: The Driving experience.
Sports suspension, dynamic steering, and electromechanical power steering continues to deliver effortless precision and responsive driving. The steering is very direct during manoeuvring while it is calm and smooth on the highway. Three additional drive mode programs are now offered to the well-known Audi drive modes, dry, wet and snow. The R8 brakes from 100 km/hr to a standstill 1,5 metres earlier than the previous model and 5 metres shorter when braking to standstill from a speed of 200 km/hr. The new model is equipped with Audi Sport wheels V-spoke Evo design in two colour options, titanium (standard) or matte bronze. Alternatively, 20-inch 5- spoke dynamic style alloy wheels are also available in anthracite black. The Ceramic brakes as well as the red callipers are a standard feature. The stabilizer in the front axle is made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer and aluminium, which cuts weight at the front axle by around two kilograms.
Sharper and tauter: The design. The familiar singleframe radiator grille is even wider, and flatter and the front end looks even sharper than before with a new wider front splitter underscoring the sporty look. The rear has a more dominant diffuser that frames the new oval exhaust tailpipes. New metallic colours of Kemora grey and Ascari blue are recent additions to the updated paint range. The Audi exclusive program allows customers to have any paint colours blended according to their wishes. Three colours are available for the sideblades, carbon, Kendo-grey or Mythos black. The Spyder also offers three colours for the fabric roof top, black, red or brown. LED headlamps and rear lights with dynamic turn signals and high beam control are standard with an option to upgrade to Audi laser lights at an extra cost. Upholstery colours are available in red, white or black and R8 sports seats with Nappa leather and diamond stitching are also standard.
The operating concept: The Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI. Inside the cockpit the entire operating concept is focused on the driver alone who can operate all key functions without having to take their hands off the steering wheel or look away from the road. MMI navigation from a 12.3-inch display and the driver can use the “View” button on the steering wheel to switch between views. The performance screen is dominated by a large tachometer and different gages can be positioned around it, for example output, torque, G-force and lap-times. Audi phone box and Smartphone interface are additional standard features. Other key standard equipment includes rear view camera, electric and folding exterior mirrors, comfort key, parking aid plus, R8 sport seats, seat heaters, tyre- mobility kit with tyre pressure monitoring system to name a few.
Local retail price and availability.
As mentioned above the official launch in SA is the 1 st April 2021. The new R8 has introduced a new model designation with this upgrade. It is now called the Audi R8 Coupe/Spyder V10 performance quattro. An analogy to the most powerful RS models from Audi Sport.
(Prices include taxes and standard five-year Audi Freeway Plan)
Audi R8 Coupe V10 performance quattro: R3,336,000
Audi R8 Spyder V10 performance quattro: R3,592,500
