2015 Audi R8: Unveiled Before Geneva
Audi’s supercar, the legendary R8, was overdue for an update. Since it shares its drivetrain and chassis with the Lamborghini Gallardo (a car that is no longer produced), we knew that the R8 was about to be modernized. After being treated to a slew of spy shots, we can now see exactly what the sports car will look like.
At first glance, the 2015 R8 is not exactly revolutionary; its lines may be more angular, its headlights longer and the car’s iconic side blades might now be two pieces of trim, but we can easily recognize the R8.
Most of the changes have occurred under the sheet metal, though: the new R8 is 50 kg lighter than the outgoing model, its aluminium chassis is 40% more rigid and the quattro all-wheel drive system has been rethought. In normal driving, it sends 100% of the torque to the rear wheels, but it can transfer all power to the front wheels if it needs to.
For the drivetrain, Audi chose to offer the R8 with a 5.2-litre V10 engine; the V8 has been phased out. Two versions are available; the base model outputs 540 horsepower, while the V10 Plus model boasts 610 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. In its most powerful configuration, the R8 can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and hit 330 km/h.
Electric car lovers will also be happy to hear that the R8 e-tron will now be available. The car will have a range of 450 km on a full charge, which should take less than 2 hours. With its 462 horsepower and 679 pound-feet of torque, the e-tron should get to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.
We expect to see both versions of the 2015 R8 at the Geneva International Motor Show.
