Audi R8 set for Geneva Debut

Published Date: 4th Feb 2015

These Exclusive images reveal how the new Audi R8 supercar will look when unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor show

                       

In the past the Audi R8 has proved a huge success for the German manufacturer and replacing it is no easy task. The latest model is starting to bloom and take shape after it was spotted in disguise testing at the legendary Nurburgring in Germany for its maiden cruise.

Audi has pushed out only one real change for the R8 since it launched in 2006 and that was a facelift last year. This latest-generation installment will be getting a nice overhaul, both in the cabin and on the outside alike. Our images reveal an instantly recognisable R8 profile and features such as the trademark side blades.

Towards the front-end there’s new menacing bumper with new air vents and a redesigned grille which will feature on future Audi RS models. The sides appear to feature more sculpted and rigid-looking panels, but the most obvious change can be seen at the back of the R8, with an aero-optimised rear diffuser slipped in below the rear bumper. A new exhaust system with squared-off tailpipes can also be seen, which sits flush with the reshaped rear end.

Audi won’t be following rival manufacturers such like Porsche, Ferrari and McLaren down the hybrid supercar route, however. Instead, the R8 will be fitted with a revised version of the current V8 and V10, with power hikes of around 25bhp for both, taking them to 450bhp and 570bhp respectively. For the first time on the R8, all engines will get cylinder deactivation and stop-start technology. Expect a 10 per cent additional fuel economy.

The German car-maker is looking to use inspiration from the Audi R8 LMS racer, with a carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) bonnet and roof to save weight, and a version of the downforce-generating double diffuser used on the LMP1 Le Mans winner is expected, too. The car will also draw on the R8 e-tron – adopting its Multimaterial Spaceframe body, which uses 23 per cent carbon fibre in its construction to save 23kg.

Likely to be included also, are the e-tron’s glass fibre-reinforced polymer suspension springs, CFRP anti-roll bars, ceramic brakes and titanium rear wheel hubs. And a huge effort has been made to keep weight below 1,500kg.