What's the news?

Tuning company MTM has gotten its hands on the new Audi R8 V10; creating a version that's more aggressive to look at, and even quicker to drive.

Exterior

Both the coupé and Spyder R8s have been fettled by MTM. The first thing you'll notice about the car pictured here is the extrovert and very un-Audi-like chequered flag decal set; which drivers can specify in a number of colour choices. Also new is a body kit that's been bolted on to the car's original bodywork. A front lip spoiler, side skirts and rear spoiler make up this package.

MTM's Nardo alloy wheels come in either 19- or 20-inch form; with the latter completely filling the R8's arches. The new sports suspension can also lower the car's ride height by up to 60mm.

Interior

Due to the already high quality interior Audi has fitted to the standard R8, not much has changed here. MTM did feel, however, that the R8's standard seats were a tad too heavy; so the company threw them away and fitted carbon-fibre Recaro items instead. Complete with the MTM logo stitched into the headrests, the new seats help to save 40kg in weight; and apparently hold the driver firmly in place when driving the R8's newfound limits.

Mechanicals

It's here where MTM has made the biggest difference. Thanks to an ECU remap and a loud new sports exhaust; the standard Lamborghini-based 525hp 5.2-litre V10 now produces a hefty 606hp. Torque is also up from 530Nm to 580Nm. These figures give 0-62mph times of 3.5- and 3.7 seconds for the coupé and Spyder respectively; and a top speed for both of 200mph.

To contain all this power, fully adjustable sports suspension has been fitted, as have massive 380 x 34mm vented disc brakes with eight-pot callipers up front. Rear brakes remain standard.

Anything else?

MTM has yet to mention anything regarding price or UK availability. Suffice to say that if it does make it here - and we really hope it does - your bank balance will need to be more than just 'healthy' to get your hands on one.

James Giddings - 12 Nov 2012