So only a few days after its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, Audi has released the full pricing and specs of the new R8 super car for the British market. As we have said before, they seem to be in a bit of hurry to get this thing on the road.
In Britain the 2016 Audi R8 launches in May with a 540 PS V10 engine and a dual-clutch 7-speed transmission, starting at £119,500. Late in 2015 the V10 Plus model will become available with a 610 PS engine and a starting price of £137,500. There is no V8 or manual gearbox option, because according to Audi nobody wanted them anymore.
The V10 Plus is distinguished over the normal version by the virtue of its special 20-inch rims and a large fixed rear wing in carbon sigma, matching the finish of its heated and folding exterior mirrors, sideblades, front spoiler lip and rear diffuser.
Standard on the 2016 Audi R8 is Cylinder on Demand technology linked to latest start-stop system and quattro all-wheel-drive system with variable torque control, as well as virtual cockpit, Audi drive select, Audi connect and front/rear park assist. The upshot of all this is the new R8 is easier, safer, and more efficient than its predecessor. But more exciting? We’re not so sure.
The new R8 has a fantastic new cabin with cool switchgear and a marvelous 12.3-inch display with elaborate and pin sharp graphics. But the exterior design is less successful. In fact, it is largely unchanged from the previous model, save the headlights and to some extent the bumpers. And even those changes are not really for the better.
