Audi R8 V10 performance RWD
With all the new EVs rolling off Audi's production line, you might have thought that the company was well and truly done with Internal Combustion supercars. However, the German company might still have a thing or two to offer. Well, that's if the all-new Audi R8 V10 performance RWD is anything to go by.
First released in 2006, the R8 has made leaps and bounds in terms of power and performance with a few subtle upgrades in each sequel. While the debut 2006 model shipped with 420hp, the updated 2022 Audi R8 V10 performance RWD ships with a much-improved 562hp for the base model.
The design, though, has more or less remained the same over the years. The only significant change has been the addition of a convertible (Spyder) model in 2009, and that too receives the V10 upgrade.
Engine
While it's nothing to be ashamed of, Audi made little mention (again) of the fact that the R8 ships with Lamborghini's roaring V10 engine, in line with the company's close collaboration (read: ownership) of the Sant'Agata Bolognese-based outfit.
The engine, in this case, produces a stunning 562hp and 550-newton meters of torque for the base models. That jumps up to a potential of up to 602hp with upgrades. The coupe's 0-60mph time is a healthy 3.2 seconds, while the top speed is stated as 205mph. The Spyder, on the other hand, comes in a bit slower with a 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 203mph.
The car's engine works in collaboration with a seven-speed S Tronic gearbox that, as you might have already noticed from the car's long name, delivers the car's horses to a rear-wheel-drive system.
With a new rear-wheel-drive system comes improved drifts, a fact that the German company put much emphasis on in its press briefing. Audi stated that along with an improved suspension system and "dynamic steering", the new R8s provide better and much more controlled drifts.
Exterior Design
As mentioned earlier, not much has changed with the new version. If you've seen past versions of the R8, trust me you do not have to catch a glimpse of this one as the old R8's sporty and aggressive design cues are all here.
A large single-frame matte black radiator, a front splitter, large air intakes, oval tailpipes, laser headlights are among some of the more familiar components that have made a return with the all-new Audi R8 V10 performance RWD.
Yes, as has been the case with recent models, the body is also built using Audi's special Aluminum and carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Still, about the body, Audi promises ten color options for new owners, including the much-loved Ascari Blue Metallic from the R8 V10 Performance Quattro.
Interior Design
On the inside, the new R8s offer a sporty but minimalistic profile akin to that of their GT4 siblings. Black Alcantara leather fittings matched with Mercato Blue contrast stitchings cover most interior components, while neat carbon inlays compliment the overall aesthetic.
Audi's custom virtual cockpit grabs all the headlines with a 12.3 screen that doubles as both an instrument panel and as an easy-access infotainment system. The car's leather steering wheel controls a multitude of functions, while a choice between bucket or sports seats guarantees the occupants' comfort.
In Germany, prices for the Coupe version start at €149,000 (approximately $172,000), and buyers will have to fork out at least €162,000 (or $187,000) for the Spyder. While worldwide pricing is yet to be revealed, order-placing is set to commence in October 2021.
