 A high degree of everyday
practicality and typical Audi quality and craftsmanship complete the profile
of the perfect athlete.
Body and interior
The R8 sits broad and squat on the road, with powerful
proportions. Large wheel arches and air vents hint at the potential within.
The forward-thrust cockpit and the engine compartment behind it are key to
the proportions of the mid-engine concept. The ‘sideblade’ dominates
the side view, and also serves as an air deflector. In the ‘World Car
of the Year Awards 2008’ the R8 won the ‘World Performance Car’
and ‘World Car Design of the Year’ categories – the latter
prize following on from the previous year’s triumph by the Audi TT.
For the first time on an Audi, the four rings are situated not in the grill
but above it on the hood. The new R8 5.2 FSI quattro brings with it a
groundbreaking innovation as standard – headlamps made up entirely of
54 LEDs. The high-tech lights are offered as an option for the 4.2 liter
R8. Both engine variants come with LED rear lamps, creating a three-dimensional
effect. The R8’s body is made of aluminum, employing the Audi Space
Frame technique, and weighs just 210 kilograms (462.97 lb). It is
composed of extruded sections, aluminum sheets and casting joints. Thanks
to the fully-clad diffuser underbody and the automatically extending rear
spoiler, the body produces downforce which aids stability at high speed.
The interior combines motorsport ambience and luxury. Its key element is
the so-called ‘monoposto’ – a large arc sweeping around the
dashboard instruments. The R8 5.2 FSI quattro features heated leather seats
and a high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system as standard. Other high-end
options include the Audi parking system advanced with a rearview camera as
well as power seats. The optional bucket seats from the Audi exclusive range
are pure motor racing style. As ever in an Audi, the craftsmanship is of
the finest quality. There are numerous customization options. The long wheelbase
measuring 2.65 meters (8.69 ft)) means the inside is roomy. Another
practical benefit the R8 offers is its generous storage space, with capacity
for 100 liters (3.53 cubic ft) beneath the hood at the front and a
further 90 liters (3.18 cubic ft) behind the seats, where there is
also room for two golf bags.
Drivetrain
Audi offers a choice of two high-performance engines
for the R8. Both of them embody a wealth of know-how gained from the many
motorsport victories achieved by the company in recent years. The V8 and
the new V10 combine gasoline direct injection, dry sump lubrication and a
high-revving design concept. Both engines provide fascinating levels of power,
exciting spontaneity and a breathtaking sound. The eight-cylinder unit catapults
the R8 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is reached
at 301 km/h (187.03 mph). The V10 is even quicker, achieving the sprint
in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 316 km/h (196.35 mph).
The range:
- 4.2 FSI quattro developing 309 kW (420 bp)
- 5.2 FSI quattro developing 386 kW (525 bp)
The transmission in the R8 is a six-speed system,
optionally available as a manual or in the sequential R tronic form. The
R tronic shifts faster even than professional drivers, and its steering
wheel-mounted paddles convey a true sense of race driving. The Launch Control
program enables the R8 to start like lightning. The quattro permanent four-wheel
drive provides the essential extra grip and stability. Tailored to the mid-engine
concept, with its 44/56 percent split, it sends most of the torque to the
rear wheels.
Suspension
The suspension system handles both dynamic performance
and relaxed cruising with equal ease and comfort. The Audi high-performance
sports car offers supreme stability allied to exciting spontaneity of handling.
The front and rear aluminum double wishbone suspension setup is optimized
for neutral self-steering. The setup for the 10-cylinder R8 is somewhat stiffer
than for the 4.2 FSI. The top-of-the-range model is fitted with 19-inch wheels
instead of the standard 18-inchers. An optional extra (though standard on
the 5.2 FSI quattro) is the Audi magnetic ride adaptive shock absorber system,
which adapts its characteristic within milliseconds to the road conditions
and the driver’s driving style. The generously dimensioned brake system
features a total of 24 calipers on four perforated, internally ventilated
disks. Another enhancement is delivered by the optional ceramic brakes, which
are light, strong and durable.
The equipment, specifications, and prices stated
herein refer to the model line offered for sale in Germany. Subject to change
without notice; errors and omissions excepted. |
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