What's this all about?
Adding to the now lengthy list of supercars being debuted at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, Audi has revealed its new R8.
It doesn't look very different...
You're right, it doesn't. It's more evolution than revolution in terms of exterior design. Like the Porsche 911, there's only so many ways that you can package a mid-engined supercar and given the success that Audi had with its first generation, naturally it didn't want to mess with the formula too much.
The R8 now has a more angular appearance, with a larger front grille and new headlights that will feature the option of a laser-powered high beam. Yes, lasers. The contrasting blade that ran down the side of the previous R8 is gone and in its place is a new panel that also carries over onto the rear quarter window, serving to highlight the substantial air intakes on the side.
Inside, it has undergone a good deal of modernisation. Like the new Audi TT, the interior is very driver-focused, with a new flat-bottomed steering wheel that has even more functionality built into it. Behind that is a high definition 'virtual cockpit' screen, again like that seen on the new TT.
What about the engine?
Buyers will have a choice of two power outputs from the 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10. The standard model will generate 540hp, delivering a 0-62mph time of just 3.5 seconds. If that doesn't quite whet your appetite, Audi is also producing an R8 V10 plus model, which will feature a more powerful version of the same engine. Power output is 610hp it can shave an additional two-tenths of a second off the dash to 62mph.
Sounds thirsty!
Not as much as you might think. Audi's engineers have fitted its fuel-saving cylinder-on-demand technology to the car. This shuts off ignition and injection to one bank of cylinders when the engine is under less of a load, saving up to ten per cent fuel as a result.
When can I have one?
The R8 makes its debut to the public this week at the Geneva Motor Show and it is expected to be on sale later this summer.
Dave Humphreys - 3 Mar 2015