New Audi R8 ready for launch in Europe

The new Audi R8 is faster and more more powerful than its predecessors. The top version, R8 V10 plus, shall now be the carmaker's fastest production – it has a a top speed of 330 km/h and a power output of 610 hp. It reaches 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 3.2 seconds.

According to Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi Board Member for Technical Development, close cooperation between race-car engineers, race drivers and developers has certainly paid off.

“The new Audi R8 will deliver exactly what customers expect from a high-performance sports car,” said Hackenberg. “This car brings our concentrated motorsport competence from the racetrack to the road.” The completely revised vehicle concept of the Audi sports car assures this. It features an even more powerful naturally aspirated V10 engine – mounted according to the mid-engine principle – that fascinates with its unique sound. The high-torque engine, a new type of lightweight design and an improved quattro drive system with fully accessible and variable torque control make the Audi R8 even more dynamic – off the racetrack as well."

Another feature in the Audi R8 is the performance mode of the drive select system. It lets drivers coordinate driving dynamics parameters to the friction value and condition of the road.

Tthe Audi R8's first generation was launched in 2007. Since then, the company has sold just under 27,000 units of the model.

Advance sales of the new Audi R8 begin on May 13, 2015. The entry-level price for the Audi R8 V10 is 165,000 euros (Rs. 1.26 crore), and the top version, the Audi R8 V10 plus, sells for 187,400 euros (Rs 1.43 crore). First deliveries will be made this autumn.