2013 Audi R8 revealed

Compared to the existing version, the 2013 Audi R8 doesn’t look particularly different.

Up front, LED headlights are now standard on all versions, the grille has been tweaked and the bumper is a new design. The alterations are just as limited at the rear, where LED lights also feature, the exhaust pipes have become circular and the bumper now incorporates a diffuser element.

Audi R8 V8 Coupé (2013) Front Side
2013 Audi R8. Scroll down for more images.

However, the lack of visual changes conceals some useful technical updates.

Key among these is the ditching of the old R tronic automated manual gearbox, replaced by a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission as the ‘two pedal’ alternative.

Combined with the tweaked 4.2 litre V8 FSI engine - which has seen its output increase by 9 bhp (7 kW / 10 PS) to 424 bhp (316 kW / 430 PS) - the effect of S tronic is better performance and efficiency.

Coupé variants, for example, will now take 4.3 seconds to accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h), an improvement of 0.3 seconds. Average fuel consumption is 22.7 mpg (12.4 l/100km), whereas before it was 21.2 mpg (13.3 l/100km).

While the 517 bhp (386 kW / 525 PS) and 530 Nm (390 lb/ft) of the regular 5.2 litre V10 engine remain unchanged, Audi has decided to introduce a range-topping Plus model. Available only as a coupé, it boasts an extra 24 bhp (18 kW / 25 PS) and 10 Nm (8 lb/ft) of torque.

With the standard-fit S tronic (the six-speed manual is relegated to the options list), that added power results in a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph (317 km/h). Interestingly, it still manages to achieve 21.8 mpg (12.9 l/100km), which is hardly any worse than the entry-level V8.

The R8 V10 Plus is distinguished by its carbon fibre side blades, door mirror housings and engine bay lining. A front splitter, also made from carbon fibre, is included in the specification, as are carbon fibre ceramic brake discs, gloss black 19” alloy wheels and recalibrated suspension settings.

UK prices for the 2013 Audi R8 have yet to be announced, but in Germany they will be slightly higher than currently:

· R8 V8 Coupé - €113,500
· R8 V8 Spyder - €124,800
· R8 V10 Coupé - €154,600
· R8 V10 Spyder - €165,900
· R8 V10 Plus Coupé - €173,200

Sales are due to begin at the end of this year.

Audi R8 V10 Coupé (2013) InteriorAudi R8 V10 Coupé (2013) Side

Audi R8 V10 Spyder (2013) Rear SideAudi R8 V10 Plus Coupé (2013) Front Side

Audi R8 V10 Coupé (2013) Rear SideAudi R8 V10 Spyder (2013) Dashboard

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