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Audi updates its iconic SA-bound R8 with design tweaks, enhanced performance

Audi has refreshed the design and tweaked the engine of its high-performance R8.

The production model follows the world premiere of the R8 LMS GT3 at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. Apart from the sportier design, the R8 Coupé and Spyder have more powerful engines.

The models will go on sale in Europe in early 2019. Audi South Africa says the refreshed R8 will arrive locally during the third quarter of 2019.

Even more powerful

Instant response, lightning-fast high-revving and a unique sound – the heart of the Audi R8 is its V10 naturally aspirated engine. It is available to customers in two output ratings.

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The almost identical drive technology of the V10 engine in the R8 LMS GT3 and R8 LMS GT4 is put to good use on the racetrack. The V10, which is produced at the engine plant in Gyor, Hungary, is very compact.

A separate radiator controls the temperature of the engine oil, which comes from a dry sump. This principle was adopted from motor racing and allows for an extremely low installation position of the engine, producing a low centre of gravity.

The pump module operates with multiple suction stages and assures proper lubrication under all conditions – including during lateral acceleration of around 1.5 G, which is possible in the R8. Both engines have a gasoline particulate filter.

Razor-sharp precision

Modifications to the suspension provide even more stability and precision. The assistance has been re-tuned both with the optional dynamic steering and the electromechanical power steering: Steering response and the feedback from the road come across as even more precise across the entire range of speeds.

Depending on the selected engine, the three additional programs dry, wet and snow are added to the well-known Audi drive select modes with the performance mode. They adapt the key dynamic parameters to the friction coefficient of the road.

2019 Audi R8

                                                                        Image: Audi

Thanks to the enhanced Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC), the top-of-the-line model brakes from 100km/h to a standstill up to 1.5m earlier; the stopping distance from 200km/h is up to five meters shorter – in each case depending on the exterior conditions.

The new Audi R8 is equipped with factory-installed 19" wheels. Ultralight 20" fully milled wheels in five-V dynamic design with new summer and sports tires, which convey even more precise handling, are available as an option.

2019 Audi R8 rim

                                                                         Image: Audi

Audi offers ceramic brake discs as an alternative to the standard steel discs. The stabilizer at the front is optionally made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and aluminium, which cuts weight by around two kilograms.

Sharper and tauter

The honed character of the new R8 models also becomes clear visually. The Singleframe radiator grille has a wider, flatter line. Thick bars divide up the large air inlets. Flat slits in the hood are reminiscent of the Audi Ur-Quattro brand icon.

The new front splitter is now wider, as is the striking low-set air vent grille at the rear. The grille rounds off the diffuser that extends quite some way up. All of which underlines the sporty look of the Audi R8. In the engine compartment, the air filter is situated under a new, three-part cover – available in a choice of plastic or carbon fibre.

2019 Audi R8

                                                                               Image: Audi

R8 customers can choose from up to three exterior packages, depending on the engine variant; these packages add various highlights to the front splitter, the side trims and the diffuser.

As an option, the Audi rings and badges on the exterior are painted in high-gloss black. The new metallic colours Kemora Gray and Ascari Blue add to the paint range. The Audi exclusive range gives customers the opportunity to customize many details of their Audi R8 – inside and out.

The new R8 models will be arriving at dealerships in Germany and other European countries in the course of the first quarter of 2019. The models will go on sale in early 2019. 

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