INGOLSTADT: Audi’s new R8 V10 performance RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) is more athletic now with a revised engine and a host of new technological highlights.
Available as a Coupé or Spyder, the new RWD variant is a sporty complement to the all-wheel drive R8 V10 performance quattro.
The mid-mounted engine sports car gets the overly sporty design inspired by its GT4 siblings.
Elements of this include the broad, flat Singleframe radiator grill in matte black with an R8 emblem flanked by large air intakes, the front splitter and rear air outlet grid as well as the oval tailpipes.
The slit under the front hood is reminiscent of the legendary Audi Sport quattro.
Inside, the most eye-catching element is the “Monoposto” – the large, heavily contoured arch that spans the area in front of the driver’s seat and is strongly reminiscent of a racecar cockpit.
The “Monoposto” encloses the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch screen, which is integrated into a freestanding casing.
The R8 leather steering wheel with Multifunction plus offers two or, in the performance version, four control satellites, each for using Audi drive select, to start the engine, to activate Performance Mode and the engine sound as well as to control the Audi virtual cockpit.
The driver and passenger can enjoy the ride in the newly available R8 bucket or sports seats, upholstered in leather and Alcantara.
Meanwhile, the 5.2-lire V10 FSI naturally aspirated engine is powerful now and is mated to a seven-speed S Tronic transmission, also gets new features such as dynamic steering, CFK stabilisers and ceramic disc brakes.
The V10 engine now delivers 570PS and 550Nm of torque, up by 30PS and 10Nm from previous.
The R8 V10 performance RWD can accelerate from zero to 100kph in 3.7 seconds (3.8 seconds for the Spyder) with a top speed of 329kph (327kph for the Spyder).
The suspension and driving dynamics are specifically balanced for the rear-wheel drive derived from the R8 LMS racecar.
The electromechanical steering comes with Dynamic Steering, available for the first time for the rear-wheel drive R8, provides even more precise reaction and feedback.
This makes driving more dynamic through more direct steering, on curvy country roads or when turning.
It also increases comfort by making steering easier, such as when parking or maneuvering.
When Sport Mode is activated in the Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC), the suspension setup and control systems will allow controlled drifts.
The R8 performance RWD’s sport suspension is adapted specifically for rear-wheel drive, has double wishbones and a passive differential lock.
The axle distribution is 40:60. Extra-light 19 and 20-inch aluminum cast wheels ensure precise handling and lane control in quick turns.
Cup wheels in 245/30 R20 up front and 305/30 R20 at the back, are available optionally and provide extra grip and dynamics.
The R8 V10 performance RWD is built – largely by hand – in the “Böllinger Höfe” plant at the Audi location in Neckarsulm, Germany.
It can be ordered from Oct 21 and the base price for the Coupé is €149,000 (RM719.400) in Germany. The Spyder starts at €162,000 (RM782,200).
Keyword: Audi R8 V10 performance RWD ramps up the thrills