Autoblog

Audi e-tron sales to be limited to 1,000 units?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi, Electric

Audi e-tron concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi may not be positioning itself as a "green brand," but it's still putting a rather big toe into the environmentally-friendly waters of electric sportscars with its R8-based e-tron, which is reportedly headed for production in 2012.

As a refresher - as if you needed one - the e-tron debuted as a concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September with some truly impressive statistics: four separate electric motors with 230 kW (313 horsepower) and 4,500 Nm (3,319.03 pound-feet) of torque (sort of), which is enough to push it to 62 mph in a mere 4.8 seconds.

So, um... want one? The line forms at the rear, and you'd better not dawdle as Audi says its only planning to build 1,000 of examples. Naturally, pricing has yet to be set, but it's reportedly expected to be "above R8 levels." Duh. Regardless, with all those lithium ion batteries and their associated electronic gadgetry, we don't imagine that Audi plans to make much of a profit when it finally goes on sale in two years.

Gallery: LA 2009: Orange Audi e-tron

[Source: Autocar]

Audi e-tron sales to be limited to 1,000 units? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red

Michael Harley — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Audi

2010 Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't the first time we've seen the drop-top Audi R8 Spyder. Images were leaked in early September, and we were there in Frankfurt for its official debut. That said, its unveiling at the LA Auto Show was less than climactic... other than the fact the Spyder was sporting a flashy bright-red bodywork.

New hue aside, the new convertible variant is a looker from its carbon-fiber mirrors to polished aluminum wheels. The blades are gone and it has gained 476 pounds in the transformation, but the standard Lambo-derived 525-hp V10 will still rip it to 60 mph in about four seconds flat. For the details (again), we've posted the press release after the jump.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red

LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: Audi e-tron, orange you terribly sad it was repainted

Michael Harley — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:56:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Coupe, Audi, Electric

Audi e-tron concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We weren't exactly electrified by Audi's e-tron concept when it debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in blazing red paint this past September, but we did like the color. So, when the e-tron reappeared at the LA Auto Show this week wearing orange... bummer.

As a refresh, the e-tron concept uses four electric motors with a combined output of 313 horsepower (and a mind-boggling 3,319 lb-ft of torque) to move its 3,527-pound mass to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds. More impressive is its rolling acceleration from 37-75 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The top speed is electronically-limited to 124 mph. According to Audi, we'll see a production version in 2012.

Gallery: LA 2009: Orange Audi e-tron

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi e-tron, orange you terribly sad it was repainted

LA 2009: Audi e-tron, orange you terribly sad it was repainted originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8

Jonny Lieberman — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Videos, Audi

Heffner Performance Twin Turbo Audi R8 - click above to watch the video

We're starting to see this type of thing more and more. And by "type of thing" we mean dyno teasers, not twin-turbo Audis. Nonetheless, you are staring at the unclothed rump of an Audi R8 with two massive turbochargers sitting on a four-wheel dynometer. And the results are, well, calling them boring to watch would be a polite understatement. However...

The car is by Heffner, and while we find the video a little lacking (you'll see), we must give it up for the soundtrack. Audibly, this is about as good as things get. And what do you get if you let Heffner replumb your R8's engine? How does 536 wheel horsepower on 93 octane sound? Sound like about 640 crank horsepower to us. Watch (or rather, listen to) the video, after the jump. Hat tip to Tony M!

[Source: Heffner Performance]

Continue reading VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8

VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Now We've Seen it All Part Pi: Pink Audi R8 in Holland [w/POLL]

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:27:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Europe, Audi

Just when you felt life was getting a little bit boring, along comes this piece of literal Dutch eye candy to remind you that many people are crazy. Yes sir, that's an Audi R8. Yes sir, someone painted it pink. But not just pink - light candy pink with darker pink blades. Now, let's say for a second that the carbon fiber blades are actually baked pink plastic. That would be kinda OK in our book. However, since they are obviously nothing but regular carbon fiber painted pink, we're against them. Moreover, they look slightly purple. And pink and purple simply do not match.

Not that there's anything wrong with pink all on its lonesome. It can be done well, and at least one of us (*ahem*) liked the Mansory Vitesse Rose at Frankfurt. But even if you totally loathe Mansory's handiwork, at least they put some effort into it. From the single photo we got here, looks like the pink R8 is just, sorta... pink. Lazy pink, really. But of course the real reason for this post (besides the laughter) is to figure out what we should call all-pink cars. Because obviously, it's now a trend.

Even though the Russians gave the Emirates a run for their stacks of $100 bills, in the end "all Dubai'd out" beat "all Moscow'd out" in our poll to determine the correct nomenclature for mirror-finished/chrome cars. But then, what to call pink cars? We've got a few ideas listed in a poll after the jump. But if you have your own suggestions, feel free to share them in the comments. Oh, and here's an all gold R8 for you to contemplate while you vote. Thanks to "The Fireball" for the tip!

[Source: autojunk.nl]

Continue reading Now We've Seen it All Part Pi: Pink Audi R8 in Holland [w/POLL]

Now We've Seen it All Part Pi: Pink Audi R8 in Holland [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Europe, Audi

2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 - click above image for hi-res gallery

While everybody and their brother likes the R8, there is a small, but vocal minority that's always thought coupe looked a little funny. Not "fugly" mind you, just a tad... off. We've heard the term "porpoise skull" bandied about. Well, that group of naysayers can now put a sock in it, as the R8 Spyder is simply gorgeous. Gone are the carbon fiber side blades, in are sensible but somehow better looking slab sides. Regardless, it's simply hot.

This particular example comes with Audi's 525 hp Lambo-sourced 5.2-liter V10 so we're putting it on our "DO WANT!" list. one of the few knocks on the hardtop R8 is that you just can't quite hear enough of the engine. We imagine hacking the roof off solves that particular problem. Also, the folding soft top operation is slick, and looks like it takes less than the 19 seconds Audi's advertising. Downside? The Spyder weighs 476 pounds more than the Coupe. But seriously, when a car looks this good, would you care? If you do, please remember that the R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 hits 60 mph in four seconds. Glad you don't care either. Full press release after the jump.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Audi R8 Spyder

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab

Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron - 4 motors, 1 battery and 3,319 lb-ft of torque!

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi

Audi e-tron concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Those with a passion for torque were disappointed when it became clear that Audi was unlikely to ever build a production version of the R8 V12 TDI that was shown at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. Now the automaker has come back with a new R8-based concept that puts the diesel to shame. The new e-tron packs four electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack with a fairly tame-sounding 313 hp but an insane 3,319 lb-ft of torque. The run to 62 mph takes 4.8 seconds, but rolling acceleration from 37-75 mph takes just 4.1 seconds thanks to the e-tron's massive amount of twist.

While acknowledging that electric vehicles are still far from economically viable volume production vehicles, Audi is nonetheless working on electric technology, both for hybrids and pure EVs. The pack sports a 53kWh capacity of which 42.4 kWh is usable. The pack weighs in at 1,036 pounds out of a total vehicle weight of 3,527 pounds and is mounted ahead of the rear axle and liquid cooled. Each of the axles sports two electric motors allowing the e-tron to retain Audi's signature quattro all-wheel drive. The e-tron has an estimated range of 154 miles on the EU combined driving cycle and you can read more about it in Audi's official press release after the jump.

Gallery: Audi e-tron concept

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron - 4 motors, 1 battery and 3,319 lb-ft of torque!

Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron - 4 motors, 1 battery and 3,319 lb-ft of torque! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi R8 Spyder gets an early unveiling

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Audi, Luxury

Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

With all the leaks leading up to the Frankfurt Motor Show, we knew this one would pop sooner rather than later. And here it is: the Audi R8 Spyder. No more spy shots or speculation. The drop-top bomber from Ingolstadt has arrived... and it's achingly gorgeous in this chocolate hue.

Without any official information to go off of, we can't comment on weights and measures, but we do know Audi will only be offering the Spyder with the Lambo-derived 5.2-liter V10, putting out 525 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. On the styling side, there's not much to report. Along with the removal of the roof, the sideblades have been dispatched in favor of a duo of scoops ahead of the rear wheels, while the windshield gets framed in brushed aluminum and a set of vented bulges trail off from the seats. Unfortunately, we don't have any shots of the R8 with the top up, but when we get an eyeful in Frankfurt, we'll get our first glimpse of the retractable soft-top and the R8's new profile. Until then, check the images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Audi R8 Spyder

[Source: Carscoop]

Audi R8 Spyder gets an early unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10

Drew Phillips — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Audi

Abt Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

After sampling the V10 version of Audi's R8, we can't imagine changing much of Audi's mid-engine road rocket if one happened to find its way into our garage. Still, there some owners will want to mess with perfection and Abt Sportline is offering a performance package that delivers an extra 75 horsepower, rounding out the total to an even 600 horsepower from the 5.2-liter V10. If those same owners deem the R8's beautiful lines lacking, they can also choose to purchase Abt's carbon fiber exterior components consisting of a new front spoiler, side sills, rear apron, rear wing, along with quad exhaust tips and BR-type five-spoke wheels. We've got to commend Abt for providing the option, but we'll pass.

Gallery: Abt Audi R8 V10

Continue reading Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10

Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2010 Audi R8 V10 answers our power prayers

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi, First Drive

2010 Audi R8 V10 - Click above for high-res image gallery

On a gravel-strewn, dead-end road 20 miles north of Sonoma, California's Infineon Raceway, the opportunity finally presents itself. We slot the R8's gated shifter into first, rev the engine to 3,500 RPM and drop the clutch. No wheel spin, no screeching tires, just an immediate and seamless conversion of potential energy into vision-warping thrust. Our skull snaps back into the headrest, our spine compresses against the seat and a few seconds later, we are running into the red.

As we hit the fuel cutoff at 8,750 RPM, it dawns on us: we totally forgot to breathe.

If forward momentum is so seamless and instantaneous that it temporarily halts the most basic of human needs, you know you're piloting something special. And the 2010 Audi R8 V10 is very, very special.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Audi R8 V10

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Audi R8 V10 answers our power prayers

First Drive: 2010 Audi R8 V10 answers our power prayers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Audi preparing lightweight, track-focused R8 V10?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Audi

First came the R8. Then came the race-spec R8 LMS. Then the V10-powered R8 5.2 FSI, with the roadster version waiting in the wings. The diesel version may have been canceled, but now Audi is said to be working on a light-weight, track-focused version of its flagship supercar.

Test mules for what is believed to be the so-called R8 Sport have been seen lapping the Nürburgring (where else?) with some subtle visual cues to its orientation. With a fixed rear wing and mildly revised ground effects, the lion's share of the modifications would be made under the skin where Audi is tipped to have removed luxuries like the stereo and air-con. A modified exhaust could add a few extra horses while the bulk of improvements to the car's power-to-weight ratio would be borne from the weight reduction.

Although Audi could draw inspiration from the new LP550 Valentino Balboni and jettison the all-wheel-drive system to save weight, following the previous Gallardo Superleggera's formula by keeping it in place would seem more in character for the automaker that staked its claim on Quattro.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: Audi preparing lightweight, track-focused R8 V10? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dealer accidently unveils Audi R8 Spyder in classified ad?

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Audi, UK

Stafford Audi, a U.K. Audi dealer, placed an advertisement on the popular website Pistonheads for the forthcoming R8 Spider. For a picture of the car, they used an uncamouflaged picture of an R8 Spider from the Iron Man sequel, as you can see from the California license plate that reads "Stark." According to the ad, though, the car was "spotted testing in Germany."

The ad copy goes on to say that the production car will differ from the coupe in the lack of side blades, extra air intakes behind the rear seats, a different location for the fuel filler cap, and the addition of rollover hoops that we assume are hidden until needed.

The car won't make its debut until the Geneva Motor Show in March 2010, but you can deposit down on one right now with Stafford. Estimated price: £105,000 ($177K U.S.).

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Source: Pistonheads]

Dealer accidently unveils Audi R8 Spyder in classified ad? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Tony Stark snapped driving Audi R8 V10 Spider

Chris Shunk — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Supercars, Audi, Celebrities

The first Iron Man movie, which came out in May, 2008, turned out to be a very supercar friendly affair. Among the vehicles in Tony Stark's multi-million dollar garage were a Saleen S7, a Shelby Cobra, a Tesla Roadster and an Audi R8. Stark even worked on a 1932 Ford Flathead roadster when he wasn't killing bad guys.

We were assuming the billionaire superhero genius will continue to have a great stable of rides in the next installment of the series, and spy photos taken on set confirm our suspicions. Robert Downey Jr. is seen driving in an Audi R8 V10 Spider during shooting of the film, which is scheduled to be released on May 7, 2010. In one of the spy photos, the V10 badging is clearly visible, confirming that Stark's drop-top R8 will be powered by VW's corporate 5.2-liter V10. With an expected 525 horsepower,the Audi R8 V10 Spider looks like our kind of Arc reactor.

[Source: Auto Express]

Spy Shots: Tony Stark snapped driving Audi R8 V10 Spider originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Audi

Audi's Multi-Media Interface, which is arguably the best of the various all-in-one graphical user interface systems favored, has just got better.

According to Audi, resolution on the system's 6.5-inch screen is getting bumped up to 800 x 480, route calculation will happen faster with a 600 MHz processor, and you can scroll along the route - not just vertically and horizontally - and get speed limit data on highways.

Additionally, the system will also finally charge external MP3 players that are plugged in to the system, song titles will be displayed,

The new A3, TT, and R8 will be the first to benefit from next-step MMI when they arrive in Stateside dealerships in the autumn. U.S. pricing hasn't been announced yet, but you can read about all of the next-gen system's new bells and whistles in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8

Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring

Chris Shunk — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Videos, Supercars, Audi

2011 Audi R8 Spyder - Click above to watch a video after the jump

We're definitely looking forward to our first official glimpse at the 2011 Audi R8 Spyder, but unfortunately, we don't know exactly when that will happen. While it was widely expected to bow at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, we've recently heard that it could show its V10-only face as late as Detroit in January.

Fear not, though, because we've got some high-quality footage of the R8 Spyder as it takes its 525 horsepower whoopin' stick to the Nürburgring. Hit the jump to view the future crown jewel of the Audi lineup as it comes hard after some of the most famous curves in the history of race tracks. If seeing the uncovered R8 Spyder on the track isn't exhilarating enough for you, make sure to turn up the volume. The sinister growl emanating from the rear of Audi's supercar in waiting is enough to send chills down the spine. We like.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

Source: Auto Wereld via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring

VIDEO: Audi R8 Spyder uncorks its V10 on the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Supercars, Audi

Audi is testing its forthcoming R8 Spyder, and the car is wearing what appears to be a completely stowable roof, not the targa-style top that has been suggested as a possibility. Yet disappearing along with the roof could also be your view of the engine. The droptop in the spy photos and in Audi's official sketch features a solid engine cover and two curious structures adorned with gills that run up to the rear window. They could line up with an interior element when the roof is down, but it would have to be mighty cool to be worth missing out on that engine. Audi's 552 horsepower competitor for cars like the Vantage V12 and Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio will bow at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: Fastest Car]

Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Sedan, Performance, Europe, Supercars, Audi

2010 Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's been all but confirmed by Audi that the R8 Spyder is due to debut alongside the new A5 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, but according to two reports from Car and Driver, there will be one less vehicle on the show stand in Germany and only one engine available in the drop-top supercar.

The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will reportedly be available with the 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10 at launch -- meaning no V8 -- with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optional R-tronic automated transmission. The 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 currently fitted to the standard R8 could be added later, but Audi seems to favor sticking with the V10 until the R8's replacement arrives a few years down the road.

Additionally, it was widely reported that the 2011 Audi A8 would be unveiled in Frankfurt, but C&D says that the launch has been pushed back sometime after the LA Auto Show in December. Apparently, the reason for the delay is two-fold: Audi doesn't want to risk quelling sales of the current A8 in some of its most important markets (China, Europe and the U.S.) and the automaker is (wisely) worried that the unveiling could be overlooked at a large auto show where too many models are vying for attention. As such, the A8 could be shown initially at a private event in Florida later this year, with the first public exhibition being the Detroit Auto Show in January.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Source: Car and Driver (1) (2)]

REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Blue By You - Fifth Gear samples the stunning Audi R8 V10

Chris Shunk — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Videos, Supercars, Audi, UK

Click above to watch the video after the jump

The 16th season of the hit British motorcar show Fifth Gear is just getting off the ground, and it's starting in style with a review of a stunningly beautiful Audi R8 V10. Unfortunately, Fifth Gear didn't appear to really wring out the 522 hp, V10 beauty during their review, but the rain may have had something to do with it. The UK team did provide plenty of exquisite shots of the top Audi, though, along with plenty of pithy dialogue.

Do the blokes at 5G feel that the added punch of the V10 engine is enough to justify the massive price premium over the standard V8-powered R8? Hit the jump to view Fifth Gear's leisurely review for yourself. We're not entirely sure we agree with the final analysis of the V10's merits, but we'll reserve judgment until we get our mitts on one. In the meantime, we appreciate the well-done video and the R8's striking blue paint - a shade we haven't encountered before, but one we look forward to seeing again and again.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Blue By You - Fifth Gear samples the stunning Audi R8 V10

VIDEO: Blue By You - Fifth Gear samples the stunning Audi R8 V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt Rumormill: Electric R8 concept joining Audi R8 Spyder

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Hybrid, Performance, Green, Supercars, Audi, Rumormill

Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Reports out of France and Germany indicate that in addition to the all-new A8 and A5 Sportback, Audi plans to reveal two versions of the R8 at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Both Auto Motor und Sport and L'Automobile report that Audi will finally reveal the R8 Spyder at the IAA expo, with the French pub saying the drop-top supercar will be available with either the standard 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 or the newly released 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10, allowing Audi to compete directly with the 911 4S, Turbo and convertible models.

However, the big news is the rumored reveal of an electric version of the R8. Details are scarce, so it's unclear if the R8 concept will be a pure EV, a diesel/gasoline-electric hybrid, a limited production model or, more likely, just an indication that Audi is looking at future powertrains. Regardless, we'll be on the floor in Frankfurt to bring you both the reveals if/when they happen.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Sources: AMuS, L'Automobile]

Frankfurt Rumormill: Electric R8 concept joining Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: GT5 to get weather changes, night racing - and yes, damage rendering [w/POLL]

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 13 May 2009 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Etc., Technology, Audi, Lifestyle

Audi is obviously looking forward to being in the coming Gran Turismo 5. After all, the Quattro company has created a website to promote its car on the Nürburgring in real life and in the game, and it interviewed GT5 mastermind Kazunori Yamauchi about what fans can expect. Yamauchi-san revealed that the game is going to offer not only more vehicles, more online features, and increased detail, but it will also include night racing, damage rendering (previously confirmed), and weather changes.

If you watch the Audi R8 Meets Gran Turismo 5 video, one of the game developers even talks of one day providing weather reports for an entire 24-hour race, and you can read the interview with Yamauchi-san by clicking on a PDF link here. The graphical and gameplay additions are surely welcome and long overdue, and could return GT5 to the head of the racing sim pack - whenever it finally gets here...

View Poll

[Source: GT Planet]

REPORT: GT5 to get weather changes, night racing - and yes, damage rendering [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 May 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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