Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ferrari California + Audi R8 + hot girls + bear suits = best rental car video ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/video-ferrari-california-audi-r8-hot-girls-bear-suits-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/video-ferrari-california-audi-r8-hot-girls-bear-suits-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/video-ferrari-california-audi-r8-hot-girls-bear-suits-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The man in the panda suit is holding an R8 key - Click above to watch the video after the jump

When we saw Henry Rollins speak a few ten years ago, he told a story about a fan who wrote to him with a peculiar problem. Seems the guy is a paramedic and one night they come upon a car crash where a beautiful naked woman is lying on the ground unconscious. They spring into action, get her in the back of the ambulance and begin emergency resuscitation. Now, the guy is alone in the back of the ambulance with the woman, and he can't get over how hauntingly beautiful she is.

And she's not responding. All her vitals were failing and he knows she's not going to make it. As she expires, the paramedic, who had suddenly and quickly developed feelings for her, kisses her on the lips. By the time they reach the hospital, the woman is dead. Trouble is, the paramedic is now completely in love with her. So much so he can't sleep, he can't eat and he's having trouble working.

Rollins said his first reaction was to write back, "YOU SICK $@#!!! GO KILL YOURSELF!" But no, the paramedic's obviously in pain and obviously needs his help. So he thinks about it for awhile and attempts to seek out helpful advice. That night at some awards ceremony he runs into none other than Tom Waits and figures if anyone has some words of wisdom for the poor, lovestruck -- but slightly demented -- paramedic it would be Waits.

Rollins tells him the story and Tom's eyes light up. "You tell him she's haunting him from the grave," Waits says in his gravely trademark baritone. "Tell him she did the same thing to me!" Now a couple of you might be wondering what on earth this story has to do with anything, let alone cars. It doesn't. But it's a fitting accompaniment to the three minutes of randomness in the video after the jump. So if you're into Furries, Ferraris, Audis, fat guys and sexy ladies, have we got a clip for you. Tip of the Panda head piece to Jesse Y!

[Source: Midway Car Rental]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ferrari California + Audi R8 + hot girls + bear suits = best rental car video ever

VIDEO: Ferrari California + Audi R8 + hot girls + bear suits = best rental car video ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8AudiR8CaliforniaFerrariFerrari CaliforniaFerrariCaliforniaFurriesFurryHenry RollinsHenryRollinsTom WaitsTomWaitsFri, 11 Dec 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Hofele Design introduces Audi A5/R8 mashup to controversial effect]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/hofele-design-introduces-audi-a5-r8-mashup-to-controversial-effe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/hofele-design-introduces-audi-a5-r8-mashup-to-controversial-effe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/hofele-design-introduces-audi-a5-r8-mashup-to-controversial-effe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hofele Design R8 Look A5 - click above for high-res image gallery

And by "controversial," we mean "disgusting." Look, the R8 has those side blades because it's a mid-engine car, but Audi felt they still need a place for a set of golf clubs, so they lengthened the cabin so the clubs can be stowed behind the seats. Meaning that the body has a whole lot of extra length in the middle. Rather than go all BMW and start torturing the hell out of the metal, they slapped on some pieces of plastic (fine, carbon fiber) and called it a day, leading to a look that some love and others loathe.

Now, the A5/S5 is a superbly beautiful car. From every angle, the seemingly minimalist design gets better and better. Especially when you run your eyes across the length of its rising and falling center line that runs from the front fenders past the doors only to terminate in the tail lamp. Just about pitch-perfect. Truly, one of the better designs this decade. German tuner Hofele Design (apparently) had but one simple mission: how to destroy it!

The results are self-evident. All those people that are moaning and complaining that their Audi A5 3.2s don't look anything like a R8 V10 can now cease their protests. All two of them. Also, and we know this doesn't need stating but here goes: why would you go through the trouble of mutating your car to the nth degree but then leave on the "A5" and "3.2" badges?

Most people who know Audis (i.e. the very people that might have an outside chance of being impressed by this) would agree that A5 and 3.2 stands for the automaker's worst engine/transmission combination, the slow-revving 3.2-liter V6 that's already been dropped from the new A4 and the numbskull six-speed Tiptronic box that likes to be in sixth gear by 39 mph. So, besides the raw, inharmonious phony aspect of the body kit (nice fake quad pipes) why on earth bother? Especially as the badge on the back says A5 and the one in the grille says S5. That's a rhetorical question, because we all know there's no answer/point. One more thing: the R8 Spyder doesn't even have side blades. And hey, why not another: the camber on the rear wheel's all messed up.


Gallery: Hofele A5 R8


[Source: Hofele Design]

Hofele Design introduces Audi A5/R8 mashup to controversial effect originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Audi A52009 Audi S52009AudiA52009AudiS52010 Audi A52010 Audi S52010AudiA52010AudiS5A5AudiAudi A5Audi A5R8Audi R8Audi S5AudiA5AudiA5r8AudiR8AudiS5HofeleHofele DesignHofeleDesignThu, 10 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inside Line editors pick their 'Most Wanted' for 2010 - do you agree?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/inside-line-editors-pick-their-most-wanted-do-you-agree/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/inside-line-editors-pick-their-most-wanted-do-you-agree/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/inside-line-editors-pick-their-most-wanted-do-you-agree/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Inside Line Most Wanted 2010 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We love award season, even if it is a bit tough to keep up with them all. Motor Trend has a set of golden calipers for its Car, Truck and SUV of the Year winners. Car and Driver has its 10Best. Automobile has the, well, the Automobile of the Year. Then there's Edmunds Inside Line and its six Most Wanted winners. Sure, Most Wanted doesn't enjoy the same sort of name recognition as the aforementioned awards, but at the very least, we tend to like the vehicles IL picks as their favorites. We also appreciate the fact that their selection process isn't exactly chock-full of rules. If they tested the vehicle before November 1, 2009, then it's eligible for Inside Line's six shooter. The only award category that truly stands out is the "Instant Classic," an award won over the last two years by the Audi R8 and the Nissan GT-R, respectively.

This year's list didn't have quite the raw power of last year's winners, but we can definitely see where the final six could be considered big fun on four wheels. The big winner is the 2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. The 540-horsepower pony car picked up IL's Instant Classic award for being such a willing dance partner - even at 3,900 pounds. In fact, Blue Oval badges dominate this year's Most Wanted list, as the EcoBoost'd Flex and the wicked cool F-150 SVT Raptor made the final cut. Porsche scored with its new Panamera, while Audi found its way back on the list with the R8 V10. The cheap thrills Mazda3 rounds out this year's list. Click on the gallery below to check out Inside Line's Most Wanted winners in our high-res gallery, then let us know if you agree with their findings by leaving a note in 'Comments.'


Gallery: Inside Line Most Wanted 2009


[Source: Inside Line]

Inside Line editors pick their 'Most Wanted' for 2010 - do you agree? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Audi R8 V102010 Ford F-150 Raptor2010 Ford F-150 SVT raptor2010 Ford Flex2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT5002010 Porsche Panamera2010AudiR8V102010FordF-150Raptor2010FordF-150SvtRaptor2010FordFlex2010FordMustangShelbyGt5002010PorschePanameraaudi R8audi r8 v10AudiR8AudiR8V10ecoboostEdmundsflex ecoboostFlexEcoboostford flexford raptorFord ustangFordFlexFordRaptorFordUstanginside lineInsideLinemazda 3mazda3most wantedMostWantedMustang GT500MustangGt500panameraporsche panameraPorschePanameraRaptorSVTThu, 03 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-r8-spyder-is-shown-again-this-time-in-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-r8-spyder-is-shown-again-this-time-in-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-r8-spyder-is-shown-again-this-time-in-red/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowaudiaudi r8audi r8 convertibleaudi r8 spyderaudi spyderAudiR8AudiR8ConvertibleAudiR8SpyderAudiSpyderauto showAutoShowla 2009la auto showla showla2009laautoshowlashowlashow2009los angelesLosAngelesr8r8 spyderR8Spyderspyder convertibleSpyderConvertibleWed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Audi e-tron, orange you terribly sad it was repainted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-e-tron-orange-we-terribly-sad-it-was-repainted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-e-tron-orange-we-terribly-sad-it-was-repainted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-e-tron-orange-we-terribly-sad-it-was-repainted/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowaudiaudi e-tron conceptaudi etronaudi r8AudiE-tronConceptAudiEtronAudiR8auto showAutoShowconcepte-tronetronla 2009la auto showla showla2009laautoshowlashoworange etronOrangeEtronr8Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: 600hp twin-turbo Audi R8 replacement in the works?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/rumormill-600hp-twin-turbo-audi-r8-replacement-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/rumormill-600hp-twin-turbo-audi-r8-replacement-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/rumormill-600hp-twin-turbo-audi-r8-replacement-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've learned to take "scoops" from Auto Express with a grain of salt. But Britain's car tabloid says they have it on good authority that Audi is working on an even more extreme successor to the current range-topping R8 supercar.

Dubbed the R10, the heart of the new four-ringed exotic is listed as a twin-turbo 5.0-liter V10 mounted amidship and pumping out 600 horsepower - through all four wheels, natch. The platform is tipped to be shared with sister company Lamborghini's upcoming replacement for the aging Murcielago, crafted from aluminum and supplemented with carbon fiber.

While such a performance beast would encroach on Lamborghini's territory and, from the sound of it, even approach Bugatti's, the Volkswagen empire has proven particularly adept at packing segments with its own products, so anything's possible. AE says prototypes are already lapping the Nurburgring and could be ready for delivery by 2012.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: 600hp twin-turbo Audi R8 replacement in the works? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r10audi r8audi supercarAudiR10AudiR8AudiSupercarsupercarMon, 23 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Heffner Performance teases Twin Turbo Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-heffner-performance-teases-twin-turbo-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-heffner-performance-teases-twin-turbo-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-heffner-performance-teases-twin-turbo-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8AudiR8dynodyno pulldynomometerDynoPullHeffnerHeffner PerformanceHeffner Performance Twin Turbo Audi R8HeffnerPerformanceHeffnerPerformanceTwinTurboAudiR8R8Twin Turbo Audi R8Twin Turbo R8TwinTurboAudiR8TwinTurboR8Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Now We've Seen it All Part Pi: Pink Audi R8 in Holland [w/POLL]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/now-weve-seen-it-all-part-pi-pink-audi-r8-in-holland-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/now-weve-seen-it-all-part-pi-pink-audi-r8-in-holland-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/now-weve-seen-it-all-part-pi-pink-audi-r8-in-holland-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi R8AudiR8Mansorymansory Vitesse RoseMansoryVitesseRosePinkPink AudiPink Audi R8Pink R8PinkAudiPinkAudiR8PinkR8R8Vitesse RoseVitesseRoseThu, 01 Oct 2009 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadians can now put an Audi R8 on their garage for just $469!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/canadians-can-now-put-an-audi-r8-on-their-garage-for-just-469/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/canadians-can-now-put-an-audi-r8-on-their-garage-for-just-469/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/canadians-can-now-put-an-audi-r8-on-their-garage-for-just-469/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As much as we love the Audi R8 (R-tronic gearbox aside), financial realities mean few of us will ever get to drive one much less own one. Audi Canada is now offering an option for those with a garage but lacking the budget to swing one of its mid-engine sports cars. They've created a wrap for garage doors that gives the appearance of an R8 parked inside. Of course, this thing won't get you anywhere aside from up and down, but it will truly affirm your poseur credentials.

If this is one of those gottahaveit items, you can order it at ownyourownr8.ca for just $469 Canadian. We searched the AudiUSA.com site, but the wrap isn't listed and we've yet to hear back from our contacts at Audi USA. Thanks to our anonymous tipster for the heads up!

[Source: Audi Canada]

Canadians can now put an Audi R8 on their garage for just $469! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 garage door posterAudiR8AudiR8GarageDoorPosterfalseFri, 25 Sep 2009 08:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Yes, that is a mirror-finish Audi R8 5.2 V10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/#comments
Mirror-Finish Audi R8 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Oh how they laughed when we suggested chroming an Audi R8. Of course, our plan was to use a couple of rattle cans and a few rolls of blue tape to git er done. Right before screaming, "Hey y'all, watch this!" and launching the R8 off a cliff. But we're a bunch of crude Americans, not nearly as stylish as our European pals that don ties to take a shower. Regardless, Audi went ahead and pulled the shiny metal trigger. The all Dubai'd-out R8 now joins the ranks of such notable taste-setters as the Bugatti Veyron Autostadt special edition, gold-mirror-finish Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Chrome SLR, etc. Yeah, we're talking smack. Partly out of jealousy, partly out of thinking what kind of a royal jackass would drive around in a mirrored car? A Kanye West-sized one, we'd think. Anyhow, "enjoy" the gallery.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Chrome Audi R8 5.2 V10


Frankfurt 2009: Yes, that is a mirror-finish Audi R8 5.2 V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8Audi R8 5.2 V10Audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR85.2V10AudiR8V10Chrome Audi R8Chrome R8ChromeAudiR8ChromeR8DubaiFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowMirrored Audi R8Mirrored R8MirroredAudiR8MirroredR8R8 V10R8V10Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 looks fantastically fab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2010-audi-r8-spyder-5-2-v10-looks-fantastically/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2010-audi-r8-spyder-5-2-v10-looks-fantastically/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2010-audi-r8-spyder-5-2-v10-looks-fantastically/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8Audi R8 SpyderAudi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10Audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR8SpyderAudiR8Spyder5.2V10AudiR8V10FrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowR8R8 SpyderR8SpyderTue, 15 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Audi e-tron - 4 motors, 1 battery and 3,319 lb-ft of torque!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/officially-official-frankfurt-2009-audi-e-tron-4-motors-1-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/officially-official-frankfurt-2009-audi-e-tron-4-motors-1-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/officially-official-frankfurt-2009-audi-e-tron-4-motors-1-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi e-tronaudi electric vehicleaudi r8AudiE-tronAudiElectricVehicleAudiR8e-tronfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowr8Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder loses blades, gains lots of headroom]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/officially-official-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-spyder-blade-gains-lots-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/officially-official-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-spyder-blade-gains-lots-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/officially-official-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-spyder-blade-gains-lots-of/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder - Click above for high-res gallery

Audi has officially dropped the lid on the new R8 Spyder and and this time around it's opening fire with the big gun V10 engine. As we've already seen in previously leaked photos, the Spyder dispenses with the regular R8's trademark side blades, instead featuring integrated air intakes on the flanks. Those new body sides and the cover for the soft top are now also made of carbon fiber, although the structure underneath remains Audi's aluminum space frame.

In spite of going with a soft top that only weighs 66 pounds, the Spyder gains a significant 476 pounds over the coupe, which may explain why Audi opted for the more powerful engine right off the bat. The Spyder also gets a reinforced bulkhead, sills and center tunnel to maintain most of its structural integrity. The power top opens and closes in only 19 seconds and can be operated at speeds up to 31 mph. Acceleration to 62 mph takes just 4.1 seconds and the terminal velocity is 194.5 mph. No U.S. launch date has been given, but we wouldn't expect to see it until at least next spring. Follow the jump for Audi's full press release.


Gallery: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder


Continue reading Officially Official: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder loses blades, gains lots of headroom

Officially Official: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Spyder loses blades, gains lots of headroom originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 spideraudi r8 spyderAudiR8AudiR8SpiderAudiR8Spyderfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowr8 spiderr8 spyderr8 v10r8audiR8SpiderR8SpyderR8V10Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: The Smoking Tire tests supercharged Raptor Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/video-the-smoking-tire-tests-supercharged-raptor-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/video-the-smoking-tire-tests-supercharged-raptor-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/video-the-smoking-tire-tests-supercharged-raptor-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the image above to view the video after the jump

With 420 horsepower, the "base" Audi R8 is a borderline supercar. But that wasn't good enough for some customers, so Audi began offering the R8 with the Lamborghini Gallardo-sourced 5.2-liter V10 powerplant with 520 ponies.

That's a lot of OEM horsepower even when considering the $150,000 price tag, but the aftermarket -- as always -- has another solution. Performance Outfitters Group in Connecticut has created the R8 Raptor by fitting the R8's 4.2-liter V8 with a supercharger that heaves five pounds of boost into the bent eight, giving the blown engine 550 lusty horsepower. The R8 Raptor was reportedly built for Bull Run duty, so this elite Audi has been fitted with all kinds of police-style lights, a bull horn, a stowable laptop and even an iPhone integrated into the sun visor.

Matt Farah of The Smoking Tire took the R8 Raptor out to the New Jersey Motorsports Park for a quick-and-dirty test and his crew distilled it into a six-minute review that you can check out after the jump. We have no idea if the R8 Raptor is faster on the track than Audi's V10 option, but looks like it would at least put up one Hell of a fight.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Smoking Tire tests supercharged Raptor Audi R8

VIDEO: The Smoking Tire tests supercharged Raptor Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR8V10r8 raptorR8Raptorsupercharged 4.2L V8Supercharged4.2lV8Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Once More With Feeling: Audi's electric concept likely to be based on R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/once-more-with-feeling-audis-electric-concept-likely-to-be-bas/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/once-more-with-feeling-audis-electric-concept-likely-to-be-bas/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/once-more-with-feeling-audis-electric-concept-likely-to-be-bas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Fourtitude, the internet experts on all things Audi, has compiled a list of rumors and clues that seem to indicate that the electric car concept expected from Ingolstadt at this month's Frankfurt Motor Show will indeed be based on the most excellent R8 platform. For starters, a surprisingly detailed initial report from L'Automobile magazine in France went so far as to include the R8 ePerformance moniker, which goes right along with the German automaker's current naming convention.

Further, L'Automobile offers up details - such as blocked off air intakes, a lower front chin spoiler and an enclosed front grille - that indicate the information may have been leaked from a company insider. Perhaps the biggest indication that an electric sportscar concept is in the offing from Audi is a teaser image grabbed from the new electricityuntamed.com mini-site. We can clearly see what appears to be the modified shape of an Audi R8, as you can see above. So, there you go.

[Source: Fourtitude]

Once More With Feeling: Audi's electric concept likely to be based on R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8audi r8 electricaudi r8 eperformanceaudi r8 evAudiR8AudiR8ElectricAudiR8EperformanceAudiR8Evelectric audielectric audi r8ElectricAudiElectricAudiR8electricity untamedElectricityUntamedfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowgreenThu, 03 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Audi reignites electric car rumors with new mini-site [w/VIDEOS]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/frankfurt-preview-audi-reignites-electric-car-rumors-with-new-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/frankfurt-preview-audi-reignites-electric-car-rumors-with-new-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/frankfurt-preview-audi-reignites-electric-car-rumors-with-new-m/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the break

The internet's been abuzz with talk of Audi's plan to bring something electric to the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month, and the German automaker has just thrown a bucket of fuel on those flames in the form of a new micro-site called electricityuntamed.com.

Naturally, details are in short supply, but Audi has put up a countdown clock that's set to go off on September 15th. Not coincidentally, that's the first day for media previews in Frankfurt. Yes, we'll be there with digital SLRs in hand and internet connections at the ready.

We really can't say if Audi's planning to show off an electric version of its awesome R8, but that's got to be the most likely candidate as its been constant rumormill material (although its been reportedly denied by Audi) for at least the last few months. It also seems to go along with the overall theme of the site, which focuses in on the power made possible by electric drivetrains. Click past the break to see what we mean. Warning: videos autoplay.


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Audi R8 V12 TDI


[Source: electricityuntamed.com]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Audi reignites electric car rumors with new mini-site [w/VIDEOS]

Frankfurt Preview: Audi reignites electric car rumors with new mini-site [w/VIDEOS] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8AudiR8electric audielectric audi r8ElectricAudiElectricAudiR8electricity untamedElectricityUntamedfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowgreenWed, 02 Sep 2009 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Abt Sportline offers 600 horsepower, new look for the Audi R8 V10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/abt-sportline-offers-600-horsepower-new-look-for-the-audi-r8-v1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AbtAbt Audi R8Abt Audi R8 V10Abt R8Abt SportlineAbtAudiR8AbtAudiR8V10AbtR8AbtSportlineAudiAudi R8Audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR8V10R8R8 V10R8V10Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Audi R8 V10 answers our power prayers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/first-drive-2010-audi-r8-v10-answers-our-power-prayers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/first-drive-2010-audi-r8-v10-answers-our-power-prayers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/first-drive-2010-audi-r8-v10-answers-our-power-prayers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

audir8v10_fd000audir8v10_fd001audir8v10_fd002audir8v10_fd003audir8v10_fd004

Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Audi R8 V102010AudiR8V10audiaudi r8audi r8 v10AudiR8AudiR8V10featuredfirst driveFirstDriver8r8 v10R8V10Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi R8: The Ultimate Driving Machine?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/22/audi-r8-the-ultimate-driving-machine/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/22/audi-r8-the-ultimate-driving-machine/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/22/audi-r8-the-ultimate-driving-machine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Oligarchical Russian BMW R8 - click above image for high-res gallery

In the pantheon of automotive wrongs, the Slavic hoser behind this "BMW R8" spotted in Moscow is a god. Hang around this car blogging business long enough and you see a lot of terrible things at SEMA. But this thing is almost cake-taking. Some of y'all might remember the Bentley badged up as Hyundai from a couple years back -- but that was at least funny. This Audi/BMW is just... weird. For instance, if the guy's being serious, like, why not just buy an M6? They basically cost the exact the same amount. And also, isn't the Audi R8 somewhat more desirable? We're really at a loss as too why anyone would do this. Your thoughts? And a very special thanks to Justin for bringing this... thing to our attention. Shudder.


Gallery: BMW R8

r8roundel00-1250875642r8roundel10r8roundel20

Audi R8: The Ultimate Driving Machine? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Aug 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8AudiR8BMWBMW R8BmwR8MoscowRussiaSat, 22 Aug 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> gets all techy, picks their top 10 favorite driver's cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/i-motor-trend-i-gets-all-techy-picks-their-top-10-favorite-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/i-motor-trend-i-gets-all-techy-picks-their-top-10-favorite-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/i-motor-trend-i-gets-all-techy-picks-their-top-10-favorite-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a truly heroic effort that's not only daunting in scope but utterly jealousy-inducing in execution, the hot shoes at Motor Trend have once again teamed up with pro-racer and 24 Hours of Daytona winner Randy Pobst to put ten of the hottest performance cars currently on sale up against each other at Laguna Seca to determine which is best. Last year, the winner was given the title of "Best Handling Car," though this year they are switching the name to "Best Driver's Car." That works.

Without getting too much into the metrics they used (it's an eighteen page article), MT went with a combination of outright speed, braking performance, lateral acceleration data and subjective seat of the pants driving impressions (plus Pobst's excellent feedback) to rank all ten cars in order. Without giving away the winner, we will say that we enthusiastically agree with their findings.

Cases in point: Chevy Camaro SS is dead last. The BMW 135i is second to dead last. The world-beating Corvette ZR1 ends up one place behind the truly superlative Shelby GT500 and the uber 'Stang isn't even the top American car. Meanwhile, the plucky little Mazda MX-5 Miata finishes higher up than all the cars we just mentioned -- including the mystery Yank tank. In fact, the only gripe we have is that last year's third place car -- the Mazda RX-8 R3 - wasn't brought back for a second go round. No one's perfect. That said, you should consider this article a must read. We have, twice.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Motor Trend gets all techy, picks their top 10 favorite driver's cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi R8AudiR8Best Drivers CarBestDriversCarBMW 135iBmw135iCadillac CTS-VCadillacCts-vCamaro SSCamaroSsChevrolet Camaro SSChevroletCamaroSsCorvette ZR1CorvetteZr1Jaguar XFRJaguarXfrLaguna SecaLagunaSecaMazda MiataMazda MX-5 MiataMazda RX-8 R3MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MiataMazdaRx-8R3Motor TrendMotorTrendNissan 370Z NismoNissan370zNismoPorsche Cayman SPorscheCaymanSRandy PobstRandyPobstShelby GT500ShelbyGt500Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:29:00 EST