Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack squares off against Audi R8 V10 Plus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GT-R vs Audi R8

The team over at Motor Trend has pitted the new Audi R8 V10 Plus against the Nissan GT-R. While both of the bright red all-wheel-drive supercars are comparably matched in power output, the similarities end there. Audi offers a mid-engine aluminum coupe with a naturally aspirated V10 that spits out 550 horsepower. Nissan shows up with a more traditional coupe equipped with a 545-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 at the front of the car.

The Head-to-Head video takes both cars to the Streets of Willow Springs in the California desert for some track work with professional racing driver Randy Pobst behind the wheel. After a day at the track, the pair head to the local mountains for some spirited real-world driving. One dominates on the circuit, while the other earns back its credibility in the canyons. We won't tell you which coupe comes out on top, but we think you may be surprised. Follow the link below to watch for yourself.

Continue reading 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack squares off against Audi R8 V10 Plus

2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack squares off against Audi R8 V10 Plus originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 v10 plusmotor trendnissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r track packrandy pobstvideoWed, 22 May 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580390/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/20580390/article-detail.xml 20580390 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/autoblogheadtohead628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/autoblogheadtohead628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 V10 gets tuned up by ABT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ABT-tuned Audi R8 V10 - front three-quarter view, red

Bavarian tuners ABT have done another job on the Audi R8 V10, pumping up the 5.2-liter FSI V10 from 525 horsepower to 600 hp, and torque from 391 pound-feet to 406 lb-ft. With 50 more horsepower than the R8 V10 Plus - but not the extreme weight-loss scheme - ABT claims a 0-62 mile per hour run of 3.5 seconds, the same as the R8 V10 Plus, and a top speed for the mid-engined coupe of 198 miles per hour "is no problem at all."

Managing all that speed are the aero tweaks provided by a comprehensive body kit including a rear wing, a lowered and beefed-up suspension, a stainless steel exhaust and 19-inch wheels in two different designs.

The press release below has a few more bits of info on the matter. And while ABT hasn't put a price on the Audi upgrades, but it's safe to say that nearly 200 mph in an R8 won't come cheap.

Continue reading Audi R8 V10 gets tuned up by ABT

Audi R8 V10 gets tuned up by ABT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abtabt r8 v10aftermarketaudiaudi r8audi r8 v10Mon, 20 May 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/20574728/article-detail.xml 20574728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/abt-audi-r8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/abt-audi-r8.jpg <![CDATA[Iron Man approves of the 2014 Audi R8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/iron-man-approves-of-the-2014-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/iron-man-approves-of-the-2014-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/iron-man-approves-of-the-2014-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: ,



Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man, has been a pretty loyal R8 guy in the movies - there was a coupe in his garage in the original film, and he conspicuously rocked a V10 Spyder in the sequel. One notable dalliance with a prototype Acura NSX in The Avengers notwithstanding, Audi's supercar seems like Stark's go-to choice when he's not flying around, be-suited.

The trend is set to continue in Iron Man 3, as well. Right as we were learning what Audi will be charging for a 2014 R8, this promo for the car and the movie has cropped up on YouTube. Called Canvas, the Audi spot is basically new R8 porn, peppered with movie quotes and shadowy clips. It's well worth the 56 seconds it takes to watch it, if only for the sound of the Audi V10 on full song. If you've got headphones, wear them.

Continue reading Iron Man approves of the 2014 Audi R8

Iron Man approves of the 2014 Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8iron maniron man 3tony starkvideoFri, 12 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538636/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/iron-man-approves-of-the-2014-audi-r8/20538636/article-detail.xml 20538636 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/iron-man-audi-r8-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/iron-man-audi-r8-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Audi R8 officially on sale, starting at $114,900*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2014-audi-r8-officially-on-sale-starting-at-114-900/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2014-audi-r8-officially-on-sale-starting-at-114-900/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2014-audi-r8-officially-on-sale-starting-at-114-900/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Audi R8 V10 Plus

After skipping the 2013 model year, the Audi R8 is back for 2014 with a new look, added performance and a slightly higher starting price. In V8 coupe form, the 2014 R8 starts at $114,900 (*not including $1,250 for destination and a $3,000 gas-guzzler tax), but looking at that price, which has risen just $5,900 since the performance coupe first debuted in the US for 2008, inflation doesn't seem to have hit the R8 as hard as some other sports coupes - like, say, the Nissan GT-R.

Opting for the S tronic automatic gearbox will cost $9,100 for all models, while R8 V8 and R8 V10 models still offer the drop-top Spyder model for an extra $13,500. Not available in Spyder form, is the all-new 550-horsepower R8 V10 Plus, which starts at $170,545. Scroll down for the full pricing breakdown of the 2014 R8, which went on sale yesterday.

Continue reading 2014 Audi R8 officially on sale, starting at $114,900*

2014 Audi R8 officially on sale, starting at $114,900* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 audi r82014 audi r8 msrp2014 audi r8 pricingaudiaudi r8audi r8 v10 plusr8 pricingFri, 12 Apr 2013 10:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538617/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/2014-audi-r8-officially-on-sale-starting-at-114-900/20538617/article-detail.xml 20538617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-audi-r8-v10-plus-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2014-audi-r8-v10-plus-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 V10 Plus takes on Ducati Diavel in straight line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/audi-r8-v10-plus-takes-on-ducati-diavel-in-straight-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/audi-r8-v10-plus-takes-on-ducati-diavel-in-straight-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/audi-r8-v10-plus-takes-on-ducati-diavel-in-straight-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The classic car-versus-motorcycle comparison is put to the test as Autocar pits a 2013 Audi R8 V10 against the Ducati Diavel in a run from 0-150-0 miles per hour. While you might expect the 162-horsepower Ducati weighing just 515 pounds to blow away the 542-horse, 3,500-pound Audi, this particular test measures the acceleration and braking of both high-performance machines.

Drag racing an Audi R8 against a Ducati on a long, flat stretch of concrete sounds fun to us, and Autocar documented the whole test for our viewing pleasure. We don't want to spoil the fun for you, so let's just say that a Volkswagen-owned brand wins. Scroll down to watch the video for yourself.

Continue reading Audi R8 V10 Plus takes on Ducati Diavel in straight line

Audi R8 V10 Plus takes on Ducati Diavel in straight line originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi r8audiaudi r8audi r8 v10 pluscar vs bikeducatiducati diavelvideoFri, 05 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20531823/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/audi-r8-v10-plus-takes-on-ducati-diavel-in-straight-line/20531823/article-detail.xml 20531823 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audi-r8-vs-ducati_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audi-r8-vs-ducati.jpg <![CDATA[Audi reveals refreshed 2013 R8 lineup [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/audi-reveals-refreshed-2013-r8-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/audi-reveals-refreshed-2013-r8-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/audi-reveals-refreshed-2013-r8-lineup-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Audi R8

It's hard to believe that Audi launched the R8 a full seven years ago. Since that time, the automaker has kept the two-seat sports car fresh with several changes including the addition of the roofless Spyder, an optional V10 and the sportier GT model, but now Audi has determined that it's finally time for the model's first full-on refresh. Today, Audi revealed the revamped 2013 R8 lineup, highlighted by subtle styling changes, a seven-speed S-tronic transmission (no more dreadful R-tronic!) and a new flagship V10 Plus model.

It takes a keen eye to pick out the design changes to the new R8, the most prominent being the redesigned LED headlights and taillights that come standard on all models. Audi has also revised the front bumper and grille, and out back, there's a larger diffuser and new circular tailpipes.

2013 Audi R8 SpyderPerhaps the biggest change to the R8 for 2013 is the addition of the new seven-speed S-tronic transmission that utilizes two mult-plate clutches. Each clutch engages with two independent sub-transmissions and alternately select gears, resulting in smoother shifts that take mere hundredths of as second. Thankfully, a six-speed manual is still offered, although Audi claims that the car equipped with the S-tronic is actually faster to 60 miles per hour by three-tenths of a second in all models.

A new R8 V10 Plus arrives at the flagship model, featuring the same carbon fiber reinforced plastic used on the R8 GT. The front splitter, mirrors, side blades, rear diffuser and lining for the engine compartment are all constructed of the lightweight material. The 5.2-liter V10 has also been slightly improved compared to the standard V10 model, producing 550 horsepower and 398 pound-feet torque.

European models will start rolling off the line at the end of this year, and while Audi has not mentioned U.S. availability or pricing, we expect our version of the R8 to follow very shortly thereafter. Scroll down to watch a video of the 2013 Audi R8 in action or to read the complete details in the official press release.

Continue reading Audi reveals refreshed 2013 R8 lineup [w/video]

Audi reveals refreshed 2013 R8 lineup [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi r82013 audi r8 plusaudiaudi r8audi r8 plusaudi r8 v10r8Tue, 24 Jul 2012 22:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20285463/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/audi-reveals-refreshed-2013-r8-lineup-w-video/20285463/article-detail.xml 20285463 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-audi-r8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-audi-r8.jpg <![CDATA[Facelifted Audi R8 recorded on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/facelifted-audi-r8-recorded-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/facelifted-audi-r8-recorded-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/facelifted-audi-r8-recorded-on-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The facelifted 2013 Audi R8 was out on public roads and, naturally, videotaped. Sheathed in camo again after having been at it totally naked not long before, there is less to visualize, but you can at least see - and, just as importantly, hear - it in action. Make sure to watch the whole thing: the special feature at the end of this video is a brief shot of the once-again naked R8 taking a turn at the Nürburgring.

Stylistic changes are limited to small details like new LEDs, taillamps and exhaust tips. More powerful engines are tipped to be on the menu, with the 4.2-liter V8 climbing to 450 horsepower and the 5.2-liter V10 ascending to 540 hp.

We'll probably get a close look at it during the 2012 Paris Motor Show; scroll down to see it from afar in the video.

Continue reading Facelifted Audi R8 recorded on the 'Ring

Facelifted Audi R8 recorded on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi r8audiaudi r8r8spy videovideovideosThu, 21 Jun 2012 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20262001/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/21/facelifted-audi-r8-recorded-on-the-ring/20262001/article-detail.xml 20262001 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/audir8facelift_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/audir8facelift.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 facelift comes into focus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



These are spy shots of the facelifted Audi R8 that we expect to see later this year. You'll need to look very closely at the front to see where the lifting and tucking has been done: new LED headlights inside a slightly reworked grille. Around back are round tailpipes like those on the R8 GT.

This is a refreshed model that will hold us until the 2015 Audi R8 arrives - the one with the carbon and aluminum chassis, more power and no manual transmission on offer. That last fact is tragic enough because we still love sports cars with sticks, but descends into the catastrophic since the six-speed manual available now is outstanding. We're sure the next-gen coupe will be awesome, but we'll enjoy this one while we have it. Check it out in the high-res gallery of spy shots above.

Audi R8 facelift comes into focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 audi r8audiaudi r8r8spy photosspy shotsTue, 22 May 2012 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242490/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/20242490/article-detail.xml 20242490 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audir8facelift2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audir8facelift2.jpg <![CDATA[CH Auto's Lithia EV strikes an Audi-like profile in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



There's a certain German sports car that the designers at CH Auto might have been dreaming about before they penned the Lithia. We don't think this kind of inspiration is anywhere near criminal, though, and before anyone broaches the topic of Chinese design, they should know that the CH Auto's design chief is an ex-General Motors man: Dan Darancou, who has work on the Buick Invicta Concept and the SEMA Chevrolet Camaro Black on his resume.

CH Auto helps automakers prepare cars for sale in China, from design through to engineering - part of Darancou's brief is to make sure those two departments work together. The Lithia, showed off at the Beijing Motor Show, has probably been done as a company calling card. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, the spec sheet claims a 150-kilometer range (93 miles).

CH Auto's Lithia EV strikes an Audi-like profile in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8beijing 2012beijing motor showch autoch auto lithiadan darancoulithiar8Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224500/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/20224500/article-detail.xml 20224500 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chautolithia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chautolithia.jpg <![CDATA[Audi's #WantAnR8 Twitter ad campaign returns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Audi R8 Commercial

Audi has resurrected its Twitter campaign to put lucky fans behind the wheel of an R8 for a day. The program generated a massive amount of attention last year, spurring the company to bring it back for Round Two. It all got started when Joanne McCoy tweeted using the hashtag #WantAnR8 in early 2011. Audi showed up at her Washington, D.C. home with a brand-new mid-engined sports car for the day, and the company went on to share the love. So far, the hashtag has been used over 75,000 times since its inception, but that number is expected to skyrocket.

The new contest is available for entry until October 29. For 2012, Audi is splitting the campaign into four entry periods, with two winners from each period. That means there will be a total of eight winners this go around. Those who take the top prize will have the choice of either driving the R8 on a track at the company's Audi Sportscar Experience in Sonoma, CA or have the car delivered to their house. Tough call.

Audi has released a new commercial to announce the return of the campaign. Click past the jump for a look see.

Continue reading Audi's #WantAnR8 Twitter ad campaign returns

Audi's #WantAnR8 Twitter ad campaign returns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi r8audiaudi r8commercialr8twittervideoviral marketingwantanr8Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20197290/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/audis-wantanr8-twitter-ad-campaign-returns/20197290/article-detail.xml 20197290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/audi-r8-commercial-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/audi-r8-commercial-628.jpg <![CDATA[British limo company eager to show its chops with stretched Audi R8 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/british-limo-company-eager-to-show-its-chops-with-stretched-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/british-limo-company-eager-to-show-its-chops-with-stretched-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/british-limo-company-eager-to-show-its-chops-with-stretched-audi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Some vehicles are made to be stretched. Others, less so. A Lincoln Town Car, for example, is a good platform for a limo. A Mercedes-Benz S-Class, sure. A Rolls-Royce Phantom. We could even see the attraction behind a Cadillac Escalade limo, if we had to. But not an exotic supercar.

The folks over at Carbonyte would beg to differ, though. The British coachbuilder made its reputation, such as it is, by helping Mercedes-Benz and McLaren develop the chassis for the SLR. But after that, things took a drastic turn for the worse.

Following the SLR project, Carbonyte turned its attention to unusual stretch jobs that usually involve supercars we'd rather not see chopped up and lengthened. Among its first projects was a stretched Ferrari 360 Modena that did not please the people in Maranello. Then the firm turned a Smart ForTwo into a giant rolling Red Bull can, before setting its sights on the Bugatti Veyron and Koenigsegg CCX.

We're glad we never saw those projects come to fruition, but the company is now reportedly preparing to do the same with an Audi R8. Whereas the Ferrari job incorporated two giant gullwing doors to give access to all the rear buckets at once, the R8 project - commissioned by the same company that owns the Ferrari limo - appears to feature individual gullwing doors for each of the passenger seats.

The vehicle is reportedly tipped to be completed by this coming summer, and will retain the donor car's 5.2-liter V10 - but we'd guess not its all-wheel drive system, and none of its handling dynamics. Check out the renderings in the image gallery above and the ludicrously dramatic video after the jump.

Continue reading British limo company eager to show its chops with stretched Audi R8 [w/video]

British limo company eager to show its chops with stretched Audi R8 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 5.2 fsiaudi r8 v10carbonytelimolimo brokerlimobrokerlimousiner8stretchTue, 24 Jan 2012 17:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151585/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/british-limo-company-eager-to-show-its-chops-with-stretched-audi/20151585/article-detail.xml 20151585 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webr8-limo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webr8-limo.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Audi R8 to do away with manual gearbox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/2014-audi-r8-to-do-away-with-manual-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/2014-audi-r8-to-do-away-with-manual-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/2014-audi-r8-to-do-away-with-manual-gearbox/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Audi R8 shifter

Perception versus reality. It's the schism that defines so many struggles in life - sports cars among them. While we know beyond the shadow of a doubt that the latest automated dual-clutch transmissions can shift faster and smoother than any human possibly could, purists still want that manually operated clutch pedal and a proper stick to row through the gears. Sure, many will tell you, though the robotic transmission might do a better job of it, they (and by they, we include many of us here at Autoblog among them) still take pleasure in doing it the old-fashion way.

Those purists are finding themselves increasingly disappointed by many automakers who are fazing out the old three-pedal setups. And the latest performance icon to join those ranks could very well be the next-generation Audi R8, if the latest reports are to be believed. Although the current R8 is encumbered by a lackluster automatic transmission option, later in 2012 Audi is expected to offer a seven-speed DSG that will, according to the ruminations, be the only gearbox offered once its complete replacement rolls along in 2014.

The manual won't be the only element missing from the next-gen R8, though. Britain's Car magazine also claims it on good authority that the iconic side-blade that distinguishes the current R8 will be gone from the next model, and while a V10 may be offered at the beginning, it may be fazed out for a turbo eight with more power. Here's to progress, then, and enjoying working that clutch pedal in the meantime.

2014 Audi R8 to do away with manual gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 audi r8audiaudi r8manual transmissionr8Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131115/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/21/2014-audi-r8-to-do-away-with-manual-gearbox/20131115/article-detail.xml 20131115 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/r8-shifter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/r8-shifter.jpg <![CDATA[Audi releases upgraded R8 LMS Ultra for customer racers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

audi r8 lms ultra

While most of the industry is busy with new debuts in Los Angeles, things aren't slowing down one bit on the racing side of the business. In the past couple of days alone, Chevrolet has debuted a new Corvette Daytona Prototype, Dacia has launched a new ice-racing minivan, Mini has announced a new B-spec Cooper, and now Audi has released their latest customer sports racing car.

The R8 LMS Ultra picks up where its predecessor left off - and that's quite a starting point: In just three years, the R8 LMS has won 115 races and 12 championships on racing circuits around the world. The improvements encompassed in the Ultra, however, promise to increase that number significantly.

Compared to the existing R8 LMS, the R8 LMS Ultra has lost some weight (thanks to carbon reinforced plastic doors), been made safer (thanks to new safety foam and racing bucket), gained a new transmission, had its cooling and breathing improved, its weight better balanced, its suspension and rolling stock beefed up and its aerodynamics optimized.

The same production-based 5.2-liter V10 carries over essentially unchanged, offering up to 570 horsepower depending on the regulators mandated by various racing series. The R8 LMS Ultra conforms to standard GT3 regulations, and can be yours for the low, low price of 329,900 euros ($445k USD) with deliveries beginning in March. Details in the press release after the jump, high-res photos in the gallery.

Continue reading Audi releases upgraded R8 LMS Ultra for customer racers

Audi releases upgraded R8 LMS Ultra for customer racers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 lmsaudi r8 lms ultragt3quattro gmbhr8r8 lmsr8 lms ultrar8 v10Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108779/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/18/audi-releases-upgraded-r8-lms-ultra-for-customer-racers/20108779/article-detail.xml 20108779 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/audi-r8-lms-ultra_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/audi-r8-lms-ultra.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> visits Norway, looks for lineage in Audi R8 Spyder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



When Motor Trend tecnical director Frank Markus decided he needed to get away, you should know that his 'time out' wouldn't merely be a weekend at the local hot springs or camping down by the river. The MT crew has made fine work of taking glorious trips in glorious cars - and a Subaru Outback - and Markus would keep it up, tracing Viking routes and his own heritage in an Audi R8 V10 Spyder along Norway's Atlantic Road.

We'd love to tell you about it but we'd be remiss - the story is worth the read and the video, after the jump, is even moreso worth the watch. To Markus and his steed, we say "skaal!"

Continue reading Motor Trend visits Norway, looks for lineage in Audi R8 Spyder

Motor Trend visits Norway, looks for lineage in Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8audi r8 v10 spyderfrank markusmotor trendnorwayr8 v10r8 v10 spyderroad tripWed, 09 Nov 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20102259/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/20102259/article-detail.xml 20102259 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/markusr8norway_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/markusr8norway.jpg <![CDATA[Will Porsche be forced to use next-gen Audi R8 platform for Ferrari 458 rival?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/will-porsche-be-forced-to-use-next-gen-audi-r8-platform-for-ferr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/will-porsche-be-forced-to-use-next-gen-audi-r8-platform-for-ferr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/will-porsche-be-forced-to-use-next-gen-audi-r8-platform-for-ferr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Porsche headquarters sign

In 2010, Porsche and Audi were both understood to be vying for the chance to provide future sports car platforms for the entire Volkswagen Group. Not to take anything away from Audi, but few would be surprised to learn that Porsche was chosen for the task.

It seems that Porsche had plans for the platform as early as March of 2011, considering it might underpin a Ferrari 458 competitor that would slot in between its own 911 and 918 Spyder. If such a car is made, what it is based on now seems to be a matter of timing: if Porsche produces its new model soon, a report in Autocar says VW wants it built on the next-generation R8 chassis that will also support the coming Lamborghini Gallardo. The overlords apparently feel that the aluminum and carbon fiber structure will be good enough for Porsche's light heavyweight challenger.

That might not be good enough for Porsche - at least according to Autocar, which suggests that Porsche might wait all the way until 2020 to produce its rumored supercar. By then, all of the group's sports cars will be on Porsche-designed platforms, so the Stuttgart firm won't need to accept one from across the aisle.

Will Porsche be forced to use next-gen Audi R8 platform for Ferrari 458 rival? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8modular standard platformmsb platformplatform sharingporscheporsche supercarR8Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20100997/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/08/will-porsche-be-forced-to-use-next-gen-audi-r8-platform-for-ferr/20100997/article-detail.xml 20100997 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/porsche-hq-sign_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/porsche-hq-sign.jpg <![CDATA[Audi giving tweeting fans R8 for a day... will you be next? [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 audi r8

Spending time with any iteration of the Audi R8 is a glorious occasion. Your life becomes brighter, and everyone you pass on the street feels a bit better about their day for just having seen one. Audi wants you to experience this for yourself, and you're going to need to flex your Twitter muscles to make it happen.

Using the hashtag #WantAnR8, Audi wants you to explain all of the reasons why you would, um, want an R8. Sounds silly, but it paid off nicely for Audi R8 fan Joanne McCoy. She spoke of her love of the sultry German sports car, and Audi promptly loaned her one for the weekend.

Audi plans to hand over the keys to a few more fans, and will also run the #WantAnR8 program during the upcoming Petit Le Mans race. Attendees at the racing event could tool around for a few hours in an R8 of their "own".

Click past the jump to watch Joanne spend some time with her favorite sports car.

Continue reading Audi giving tweeting fans R8 for a day... will you be next? [w/video]

Audi giving tweeting fans R8 for a day... will you be next? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8r8twittervideowantanr8Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20068573/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/29/audi-giving-tweeting-fans-r8-for-a-day-will-you-be-next-w-v/20068573/article-detail.xml 20068573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/lead1_audir8v10review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/lead1_audir8v10review.jpg <![CDATA[Audi shows off near-production R8 e-tron prototype]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/audi-shows-off-near-production-r8-e-tron-prototype/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/audi-shows-off-near-production-r8-e-tron-prototype/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/audi-shows-off-near-production-r8-e-tron-prototype/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi R8 e-tron Prototype

When Audi unveiled the original e-tron Concept at the last Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009, a production version seemed to be nothing more than a glimmer in the very distant future. Two years later, it appears that the automaker has made plenty of progress in bringing an electric-powered R8 into the world.

Yesterday in Frankfurt, Audi revealed a new R8 e-tron "technology demonstrator" that represents something fairly similar to the production model we'll see in the near future. Some unique visual features separate the R8 e-tron from the petrol-powered version, including the carbon fiber vents on the hood and chrome slats in the front grilles and rear bumper. Like the concept, the production version of the car is expected to feature four electric motors sending power to each wheel, with performance targets including 0-60 mph in less than five seconds and a 150 mile range.

You can see the new Audi R8 e-tron prototype in detail in the high-res gallery above.

Audi shows off near-production R8 e-tron prototype originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi e-tronaudi r8audi r8 e-trone-tronfrankfur motor showfrankfurtfrankfurt 2011r8Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20041827/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/14/audi-shows-off-near-production-r8-e-tron-prototype/20041827/article-detail.xml 20041827 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/audi-r8-e-tron-frankfurt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/audi-r8-e-tron-frankfurt.jpg <![CDATA[Is this the face of the next Audi R8?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/is-this-the-face-of-the-next-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/is-this-the-face-of-the-next-audi-r8/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/is-this-the-face-of-the-next-audi-r8/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Audi R8 leak

It may be hard to believe, but the Audi R8 has already been on the market for five years. And while it was cutting edge then and is still eminently fresh and desirable by any account, sooner or later it's going to need a bit of a touch-up up to keep ahead of the competition. And this could be our first look at what to expect.

Apparently leaked out together with some other photos, this solitary shot is believed to be a design mock-up of the front-end of the next R8. The nose features Audi's latest hexagonal grille shape and a very sharp-looking set of all-LED headlamps that (with apologies to Bryan Adams fans) cut like a knife across the car's face.

Mechanically, the new R8 is likely to carry over the existing choice of V8 or V10 engines with Quattro all-wheel drive, although prototypes have reportedly been seen with 2.5 and 3.0-liter TFSI engines driving the rear wheels only. What is understood is that the much-derided R-tronic transmission will finally be replaced with a better dual-clutch gearbox.

Sources speculate that Audi could be preparing to unveil the new R8 at the rapidly approaching Frankfurt Motor Show, but that could prove little more than wishful thinking. One way or another, we'll find out soon enough, so watch this space for more.

Is this the face of the next Audi R8? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi r82013 audi r8audiaudi r8audi r8 v10r8Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20024774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/23/is-this-the-face-of-the-next-audi-r8/20024774/article-detail.xml 20024774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2013-audi-r8-pi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2013-audi-r8-pi.jpg <![CDATA[Audi celebrates 100th win of the R8 LMS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi R8 LMS

Having dominated rallying in the 1980s and Le Mans prototype racing since the turn of the millennium, Audi has grown accustomed to the checkered flag. But that's always been with manufacturer-backed works teams. So when Ingolstadt launched the R8 LMS in 2008, it charted new territory.

The GT3 racing version of the cutting-edge supercar was the first racecar built by Audi specifically for customer racing teams, and it has been a virtually unprecedented success. This past weekend, in fact, the R8 LMS scored its 100th win when Hitotsuyama Racing took the checkered flag in the GT3 Asia Series race at Suzuka.

That's a remarkable achievement for one car. All told, the 100 race wins were chalked up by 41 cars being fielded in 18 racing series around the world, in which the R8 LMS has won a remarkable one in every three races it's entered. That in itself is quite a feat, and you can read more about it in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Audi celebrates 100th win of the R8 LMS

Audi celebrates 100th win of the R8 LMS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 lmsgt3r8r8 lmsTue, 23 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20024031/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/23/audi-celebrates-100th-win-of-the-r8-lms/20024031/article-detail.xml 20024031 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/270808-a-audm_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/270808-a-audm.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 GT thoroughly explained by Emanuele Pirro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/audi-r8-gt-thoroughly-explained-by-emanuele-pirro/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/audi-r8-gt-thoroughly-explained-by-emanuele-pirro/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/audi-r8-gt-thoroughly-explained-by-emanuele-pirro/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Audi R8 GT

Emanuele Pirro has spent the last 17 years as an Audi works driver, so it's safe to say he knows his way around Quattro-equipped iron. Not only has Pirro had the pleasure of first crack at the latest gems from Audi in that time, he's also had the pleasure of winning three LeMans victories behind the four rings.

During the course of over four videos produced last week for Audi's social media outlets in the United States, Pirro details the limited-edition 2011 Audi R8 GT. Starting with the car's 560-horsepower, V10-motivated 3.6 second 0-60 time, Pirro takes four episodes to explain why you want need an R8 GT, as if you didn't already know. Included in that long list of reasons are the carbon fiber spoiler and front splitter. Did we mention this beast is 180 pounds lighter than the regular car?

For Pirro's full impressions of the baddest R8 available, click past the jump.

Continue reading Audi R8 GT thoroughly explained by Emanuele Pirro

Audi R8 GT thoroughly explained by Emanuele Pirro originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 audi r8 gtaudiaudi r8emanueleemanuele pirrolemanspirror8 gtMon, 15 Aug 2011 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20017322/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/15/audi-r8-gt-thoroughly-explained-by-emanuele-pirro/20017322/article-detail.xml 20017322 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/audi-r8-gt-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/audi-r8-gt-lead.jpg -1 2