Geneva: Audi R8 Spyder V10

As part of their Geneva Motor Show program Audi have released some new press images of their stunning R8 Spyder V10 5.2 FSI. It’s a pretty nice looking car, so let’s take a look at what they’ve got to show.

You can check them out after the jump, remember all images are available in wallpaper-friendly 2000px super image sizing by simply clicking on the pic you like. For more detail on this 386kW velvet sledgehammer, take a look back at the info posted when the R8 Spyder was launched at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Audi Model Range Geneva Motor Show 2010

The Audi R8

Right from the start, the Audi R8 raced out to a leading position in the supercar segment thanks to the formidable power of its V8 or V10 engine, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, and its lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) body made of aluminum. The good everyday practicality and perfect fit and finish typical of Audi complete the profile of this model athlete. In late 2009, the R8 5.2 FSI quattro claimed the title of “SportsCar 2009” among the production supercars – a respected honor awarded by the readers of the trade journal Auto Bild SportsCars.

Body and interior
Large wheel wells and air intakes visualize the potential of the R8. The forward-thrust cockpit and the engine compartment behind it are key to the proportions of this mid-engine concept. The vertical sideblade, which also serves as a baffle plate for the intake air, structures the flank. The R8 5.2 FSI quattro comes equipped with a groundbreaking innovation as standard: headlights made up entirely of light-emitting diodes. They are available as an option for the R8 4.2 FSI quattro.

The body of the R8 is an aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) and weighs only 210 kilograms (462.97 lb). The superstructure, which is made by hand, comprises extruded sections, aluminum panels and casting joints. The fully-enclosed diffuser underbody and the rear spoiler that slides out automatically help ensure that the R8 generates downforce at high speeds.

The interior evokes a luxury-grade racing atmosphere. Its distinguishing characteristic is the monoposto – a large arc that sweeps around the instruments. The long wheelbase measuring 2.65 meters (8.69 ft) equates to a roomy interior. There is space for two golf bags behind the seats, and the luggage compartment under the hood offers an additional 100 liters (3.53 cubic ft) of storage capacity. The R8 5.2 FSI quattro comes standard with leather seats, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and the navigation system plus. The optional bucket seats from the Audi exclusive range exude pure racing style.

Drivetrain
Audi offers two high-tech engines for the R8: both reflect the wealth of expertise which helped to fuel the brand’s numerous racing triumphs. The V8 and the V10 combine direct gasoline injection, dry sump lubrication, and a high-revving concept. Both engines provide fascinating levels of power, exciting spontaneity, and a breathtaking sound. The eight-cylinder R8 rockets from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.6 seconds en route to a top speed of 301 km/h (187.03 mph); the V10 in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 316 km/h (196.35 mph).

The engines:

• 4.2 FSI quattro with 309 kW (420 hp)
• 5.2 FSI quattro with 386 kW (525 hp)

Power is handled via six speeds which the driver selects by means of a manual transmission or an R tronic. The automatic transmission makes lightning-fast shifts and can be operated using the paddles on the steering wheel. The “launch control” program enables the R8 to make stunningly fast starts. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive is tailored to the mid-engine concept with its rear-biased axle load distribution, with the standard distribution sending roughly 85 percent of the power to the rear wheels.

Chassis
The chassis masters effortless cruising every bit as well as it does dynamic performance. The front and rear aluminum double wishbone suspension setup is optimized for neutral self-steering. The setup for the R8 with V10 engine is somewhat stiffer still than for the R8 4.2 FSI. The top-of-the-line model comes standard with 19-inch wheels. The R8 features a brake system comprising a total of 24 pistons on four perforated and internally ventilated discs. The optional ceramic brakes are extremely lightweight, strong, and durable. The adaptive shock-absorber technology Audi magnetic ride is optional (standard in the 5.2 FSI quattro).

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro

The new R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro uses the V10 engine with 386 kW (524 hp). It accelerates in 4.1 seconds from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and reaches a top speed of 313 km/h (194.49 mph).

The open two-seater interprets the dynamics and emotion of the high-performance sports car with its own accents. The storage space behind the seats and side blade on the flanks are eliminated here. The rear side panels are made of a hard-to-manufacture carbon fiber composite material, as is the large cover over the roof compartment. Two cowls extending to the spoiler lip give the rear of the open-top two-seater a powerful profile.

In classic Audi style, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a cloth top, which keeps the total weight and the vehicle’s center of gravity low. The soft top takes up little room when opened; when closed it integrates ideally into the design line. Its two slim fins draw a contour similar to that of the solid roof of the coupé. The cover is perfectly suitable for high-speed driving and is very quiet. The standard hydraulic motor opens and closes within 19 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph).

The wind deflector is installed in just two steps. The glass window is integrated into the bulkhead separates and can be raised and lowered via a switch. Also integrated into the bulkhead is rollover protection in the form of two strong, spring-loaded plates; the ASF body is reinforced in critical areas.

The leather seats of the open two-seater are specially pigmented to reduce heating as a result of the sun’s rays. Among the exclusive options is the innovative seatbelt microphone for the hands-free unit, which makes it possible to talk on the phone with the top down on the highway. Integrated into each of the two belts are three small microphones; a fourth is mounted on the windshield frame.

Note: The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.