The Second Generation of the Audi R8 Spyder

Spectacular design and breathtaking dynamics, combined with the allure of open-top driving – Audi presents the second generation of the R8 Spyder. The new model offers the finest in high-tech with its 540-hp V10 mid-mounted engine, quattro drive with variable torque distribution, lightweight body of carbon fiber and aluminum, and new performance mode.

The dynamic character of the new Audi R8 Spyder is immediately apparent at first glance. The new model looks much more chiseled and athletic than its predecessor. It has grown by 36 mm (1.4 in) in width to 1.94 m (6.4 ft). This added width is underscored by the horizontal lines at the front and rear of the car. The sculpted Singleframe with its eye-catching honeycomb grille appears wider and is positioned lower. Positioned seamlessly above the Singleframe are the wedge-shaped LED headlights. The narrow LED lights provide a distinctive red light signature at the stately rear of the car. The new sideblades emphasize the sporty lines on the flanks.

The convertible top weighs just 44 kg (97 lb), thus contributing to the low center of gravity of the car. Two fins running to the rear stretch the cloth. They and the large cover of the compartment for the convertible top harmonize perfectly with the design of the R8 Spyder. An electro-hydraulic drive opens and closes the top in just 20 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.1 mph).

The interior of the new Audi R8 Spyder echoes the streamlined styling of the exterior and also visualizes the systematic lightweight construction concept. The defining element is the monoposto, the large arc running around the cockpit. The instrument panel appears to float weightlessly, and cylindrical controls for the automatic air conditioner are arranged along its lower edge. The large 12.3-inch, fully digital Audi virtual cockpit presents all information using rich 3D graphics.

The impressive mid-engine with dual injection system sets the tone in the new Audi R8 Spyder V10. The free-breathing, 5.2-liter engine develops 397 kW (540 hp) of power and 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm, delivering impressive road performance: from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 318 km/h (197.6 mph). The new R8 Spyder thus tops its predecessor by 15 hp, 0.2 seconds in the sprint and 7 km/h (4.3 mph) in top speed. At the same time, a variety of efficiency technologies reduce fuel consumption by 10% versus the previous generation model. Thanks to these technologies, the new R8 Spyder consumes just 11.7 liters per 100 km (20.1 US mpg), corresponding to 277 grams of CO2 per kilometer (445.8 g/mile).

‘The new Audi R8 Spyder is faster, lighter and more dynamic than its predecessor,’ says Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of quattro GmbH. ‘Together with the Coup?, it forms the vanguard of the Audi model lineup and offers the ultimate in open-top driving enjoyment.’