Audi updates the R8 Range

The updated R8 has been revealed for the local market. With it, Audi is also introducing a new model designation. The Audi R8 Coupé/Spyder V10 plus is now called Audi R8 Coupé/Spyder V10 performance Quattro. The nomenclature reserved for the most stalwart RS models from Audi Sport.

Audi R8 V10 performance – Exterior Design

The single-frame radiator grille is broader and flatter in terms of looks, and there are “dimmed” headlights. There are flat slits above the grille (reminiscent of the Audi Sport Quattro) whilst winglets at the side divide the large air inlets. The new front splitter is now more comprehensive, and an air inlet grille spans the rear end’s entire width. There, the rear diffuser is even more dominant and frames the new oval exhaust tailpipes. The air filter is situated in the engine compartment under a new three-part cover. It is available in a choice of plastic or carbon fibre. LED headlamps and rear lights with dynamic turn signals and high-beam control are standard with an option to upgrade to the Audi laser light at an extra cost. Standard is a high-gloss black styling package which offers buyers a front splitter, sill trims and diffuser that are all finished off in black accents. There is an option to upgrade the exterior look to the gloss carbon RS external parts. The Audi rings and badges on the exterior are painted in high-gloss black and are complemented by the standard carbon exterior mirror housings and sideblade. Colour options are enhanced with new metallic colours of Kemora grey and Ascari blue. Audi says the Audi exclusive program allows customers to have any paint colours blended according to their wishes. There are three variants and the customized paint finish to choose from for the sideblades (carbon, Kendo grey or Mythos black), and there are three colours for the fabric top of the Spyder (black, red or brown) The facelifted Audi R8 is equipped with factory-installed 20-inch Audi Sport wheels V-spoke Evo design wheels in two colour options – titanium (standard) or matte bronze. An alternative 20-inch 5-double spoke dynamic style alloy wheel in anthracite black is also available. Ceramic brakes, as well as red callipers, are a standard feature. The stabilizer at the front axle is optionally made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and aluminium, which cuts weight at the front axle by around two kilograms.

Audi R8 V10 performance – Interior design and updates

The updated R8 sees two standard-fit modules merged into one unit; the MMI navigation plus information is shown in the revised Audi virtual cockpit. It has a 12.3-inch display, and the driver can use the “View” button on the steering wheel to switch between views. The system is operated via the performance steering wheel and a rotary push-button on the centre tunnel’s console. The Audi phone box and Smartphone Interface are additional standard features. Additional options here include the R8 sports seat with Nappa leather and diamond stitching as standard. Customers can select between the upholstery colours of red, white or black. Other critical standard equipment includes a rearview camera, electric and folding exterior mirrors, comfort key, parking aid plus, R8 sports seats, seat heaters, tyre mobility kit with a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Audi R8 V10 performance – Engine and performance

The 5.2 litre V10 naturally aspirated engine continues to offer 449 kW and 560 Nm. The Coupé sprints to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and the Spyder takes 3.3 seconds. Top speed sits at 310 and 329 km/h respectively. The engine is paired with a 7-speed S Tronic gearbox which sends power to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. A throaty V10 engine note is guaranteed by an R8 sports exhaust system which comes standard.

Audi R8 V10 performance – Pricing in South Africa 

The updated Audi R8 range is priced from R3.3Million and comes standard with a five year Audi Freeway Plan:Audi R8 Coupé V10 performance Quattro R3,336,000Audi R8 Spyder V10 performance Quattro R3,592,500The new Audi R8 will officially go on sale in South Africa from 1 April 2021