Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Details on 2015 Audi R8 leak out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/details-on-2015-audi-r8-leak-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/details-on-2015-audi-r8-leak-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/details-on-2015-audi-r8-leak-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



News on the next-generation 2015 Audi R8 has been spilling forth for a bit now, but a report in Autocar has begun to put them into a single package. We knew that next R8 wouldn't offer a manual option, only a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and that the monocoque would be a lighter, aluminum and carbon affair. Audi has apparently pegged a target weight of under 1,500 kilograms (3,300 pounds), meaning it will shed more than 135 kg (305 lbs.) versus today's 4.2-liter V8 manual.

That will make the two engines in the next car - refined versions of the current naturally aspirated V8 and V10 - even more potent. Autocar didn't mention an increase in displacement, but horsepower bumps were rated at 20 hp for the V8, to 450 hp, and 25 hp for the V10, to 550 hp. The GT will also benefit from 20 additional horses, getting 580 hp. More interestingly, neither mill will benefit from forced induction as Audi wants to maintain "the throttle response, the soaring nature of the delivery and the inherent sound."

The evolution or disappearance of the sideblades on the "clean-sheet design" also wasn't broached, but the trademark signifiers don't appear in Autocar's rendering. The report states that it will take cues from the R8 e-tron (pictured), but they see intakes at the door shut-line, which feature very MP4-12C-like dual strakes. It's only a rendering, but if sideblades are what you're after then the future doesn't look bright. We'll see the sibling Lamborghini Gallardo replacement next year, a year before the R8 is shown in 2014.

Details on 2015 Audi R8 leak out originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 audi r8audir8r8 gtr8 v10Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/details-on-2015-audi-r8-leak-out/20165853/article-detail.xml 20165853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/next-genr8audi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/next-genr8audi.jpg <![CDATA[Audi prices R8 GT Spyder at a top-dropping $210,000*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/audi-prices-r8-gt-spyder-at-a-top-dropping-210-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/audi-prices-r8-gt-spyder-at-a-top-dropping-210-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/audi-prices-r8-gt-spyder-at-a-top-dropping-210-000/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder

Some may beg to differ, but from where we sit, the acquisition Audi made of Lamborghini back in 1998 was a good thing, and remains as such. The resulting supercars to roll out of Sant'Agata Bolognese have been better than those made under prior owners by leaps and bounds. But who would have thought the relationship would benefit Audi as much as it has?

Not only did the partnership give Ingolstadt the sweet-revving V10 engine that powered the RS6 and S8 (until recent pressures necessitated a switch to a twin-turbo V8 instead), but it also gave Audi the underpinnings for the R8 ... and a page or two out of the Lamborghini playbook.

The R8 has since grown to include two different engine specs, a convertible version and the hard-core R8 GT. But as if all that weren't enough, it led to the crême-de-la-crême R8 GT Spyder. The limited-edition roadster packs the 5.2-liter V10 engine tuned up to 560 horsepower and unburdened of 187 pounds of excess weight, all without a roof to get between driver and the wind rushing rapidly by.

The hard-core, tire-burning attitude, however, is not all the R8 GT Spyder got from its Italian cousins. It also picked up a Lamborghini's price tag, as Audi USA has just announced the sticker on the exclusive roadster: $210,000. That doesn't include the $1,200 destination charge, taxes or optional equipment like carbon-ceramic brakes or Bang & Olufsen sound system.

That may seem mighty steep, but if you've got the cash to burn, don't hesitate for too long, because with only 333 units to be built in total and just 50 earmarked for the United States, they're bound to go fast. Like, Lamborghini fast. Follow the jump for the full press release, and seeing as how Audi has released a whole mess of new photos since the car's initial launch, we've put those together for you in a fresh high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Audi prices R8 GT Spyder at a top-dropping $210,000*

Audi prices R8 GT Spyder at a top-dropping $210,000* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8 gt spyder pricingr8r8 gtr8 gt spyderThu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162360/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/audi-prices-r8-gt-spyder-at-a-top-dropping-210-000/20162360/article-detail.xml 20162360 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webaudir8gts_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webaudir8gts.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[Audi gets clever with new roadside billboards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/audi-gets-clever-with-new-roadside-billboards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/audi-gets-clever-with-new-roadside-billboards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/audi-gets-clever-with-new-roadside-billboards/#commentsFiled under: ,



Audi has started a new roadside billboard advertising campaign in the U.S. to promote the fact that people are buying the R8 GT supercar. The billboards, like this one erected in Lake Forest, Illinois, alert the good townsfolk that an R8 GT has been purchased within their city limits. In red is the warning, "Slow traffic keep right," which could also just as easily say, "Rob him while he's out driving."

Audi gets clever with new roadside billboards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingaudibillboardr8r8 gtThu, 05 Jan 2012 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20141098/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/05/audi-gets-clever-with-new-roadside-billboards/20141098/article-detail.xml 20141098 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-r8-gt-billboard-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-r8-gt-billboard-opt.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 sets U.S. annual sales record with a month to spare]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/04/audi-sets-u-s-annual-sales-record-with-a-month-to-spare/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/04/audi-sets-u-s-annual-sales-record-with-a-month-to-spare/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/04/audi-sets-u-s-annual-sales-record-with-a-month-to-spare/#commentsFiled under: , ,

audi r8 gt

Audi may not have the market share of its German rivals here in the States, but that dynamic appears to be changing. Audi announced that 2011 is already a record-setting year here in the U.S., besting its 2010 record by Thanksgiving weekend.

Audi has already sold 104,906 vehicles through November 30, better than the 101,629 units sold in all of of 2010. December is traditionally a strong sales month (who wouldn't want an R8 for Christmas?), which should only add more distance between the old sales record and the new mark. Audi Certified pre-owned sales also had a banner year, moving 33,102 used vehicles so far in 2011, beating the previous high of 32,108 units in 2008.

Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen sounds pleased with the brand's progress in the U.S., attributing the success to "the steady arrival of exciting new models that have captured the imagination of the American premium car customer." Hit the jump to read the brag-tastic Audi press release.

Continue reading Audi sets U.S. annual sales record with a month to spare

Audi sets U.S. annual sales record with a month to spare originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiJohan de Nysschenr8salessales recordusSun, 04 Dec 2011 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20117104/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/04/audi-sets-u-s-annual-sales-record-with-a-month-to-spare/20117104/article-detail.xml 20117104 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/r8-gt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/r8-gt.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[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 going carbon/aluminum for next-gen R8 chassis]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/audi-going-carbon-aluminum-for-next-gen-r8-chassis/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/audi-going-carbon-aluminum-for-next-gen-r8-chassis/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/audi-going-carbon-aluminum-for-next-gen-r8-chassis/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Cars keep getting heavier. It's an unfortunate trend, but one that we've grudgingly come to accept. But the next-generation Audi R8 is tipped to buck the trend.

According to reports quoting Audi's chief engineer Michael Dick, the 2014 R8 will undercut the current model's weight by some 100 kilograms (220 lbs), while increasing torsional rigidity by 30%. That's no mean feat, and to get there, Audi will reportedly build the chassis out of a combination of aluminum and carbon fiber.

That last bit may benefit from the advanced carbon construction methods being developed by sister-company Lamborghini, which Audi owes to a large degree for the existence of the R8 altogether.

Will that mean the next-gen R8 will shoot up in price, or are we looking at one of the most accessible carbon-fiber supercars in a field populated by exotics three to ten times the price? We'll have to wait and see, but we're expecting a facelifted version of the current model before the all-new one arrives in 2014.

Audi going carbon/aluminum for next-gen R8 chassis originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 audi r8audir8Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20084131/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/18/audi-going-carbon-aluminum-for-next-gen-r8-chassis/20084131/article-detail.xml 20084131 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/19-2012-audi-r8-gt-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/19-2012-audi-r8-gt-fd-opt.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[Audi homologating R8 LMS for Grand Am racing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/#commentsFiled under: ,

audi r8 lms

Audi has been racking up motorsports wins all over the world thanks to its R8 LMS track star. The GT3 racer has compiled over 100 victories in Europe, Asia, South America and Australia. Now it's time for the four-ringed race car to earn a few checkered flags in North America, as Audi has announced that it is bringing the R8 LMS Stateside to run in the Grand-Am series.

If you're the owner of a racing team here in the U.S., now is the time to get excited. Audi will sell you a Grand-Am-ready R8 LMS, and offer support through its Audi Sport customer racing group. The R8 LMS will make its U.S. debut at the 50th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Daytona.

Principles of racing teams, click past the jump to read the full press release. OK fine, even if you don't own a race team, you can still read it.

Continue reading Audi homologating R8 LMS for Grand Am racing

Audi homologating R8 LMS for Grand Am racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi motorsportsaudi r8 gt3audi r8 lmsgrand-amgt3r8r8 gt3r8 lmsFri, 09 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20037057/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/09/audi-homologating-r8-lms-for-grand-am-racing/20037057/article-detail.xml 20037057 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/002-audi-r8-lms-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/002-audi-r8-lms-lead.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 USA opens up the palette with R8 Exclusive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/12/audi-usa-opens-up-the-palette-with-r8-exclusive/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/12/audi-usa-opens-up-the-palette-with-r8-exclusive/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/12/audi-usa-opens-up-the-palette-with-r8-exclusive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi R8 Exclusive

Drive an Audi R8 and you're likely to turn heads just about anywhere you go. Unless, that is, you're driving it in an area where the four-ringed supercar is already commonplace. Then you're going to want to look for a way to distinguish yours from all the others. Fortunately, Audi Exclusive has the answer with its new custom R8.

The program, announced on Audi USA's Facebook page, allows customers to custom order their R8 and specify from a range of special color options. In addition to the range of colors that can be specified for the exterior and the side-blade, Audi Exclusive is offering a set of special interior trims. That way, you can get your cabin decked out in brown leather with red stitching. Or red leather with white stitching. Or how about black leather with brown inserts and piping? Maybe brown with white stitching and piping is your thing.

The possibilities are endless, but we've got a half-dozen images of a few configurations released by Audi to give you an idea of what's in store, so check 'em out.

Audi USA opens up the palette with R8 Exclusive originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi exclusiveaudi exclusive r8audi r8audi r8 exclusiver8Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20016213/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/12/audi-usa-opens-up-the-palette-with-r8-exclusive/20016213/article-detail.xml 20016213 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webexclusive-r8-6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webexclusive-r8-6.jpg <![CDATA[2011-12 Audi R8 Spyder recalled for fuel leak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/2011-12-audi-r8-spyder-recalled-for-fuel-leak/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/2011-12-audi-r8-spyder-recalled-for-fuel-leak/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/2011-12-audi-r8-spyder-recalled-for-fuel-leak/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Audi R8 Spyder

Not even supercars are safe from recalls. Audi is recalling certain R8 Spyders for a potential fuel leak, caused by the fuel supply line rubbing against the heat shield in the engine compartment. According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, this effects droptop R8s built between May 18, 2010 and June 22, 2011.

We don't need to tell you why a fuel leak is a potential disaster. Anyone who dropped the cash for an R8 Spyder surely will not want to see it go up in flames.

The official recall is expected to begin on August 22, and owners will be able to have their cars inspected and repaired free of charge. Follow the jump for NHTSA's official release.

Continue reading 2011-12 Audi R8 Spyder recalled for fuel leak

2011-12 Audi R8 Spyder recalled for fuel leak originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 audi r8 spyder2012 audi r8 spyderaudinational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsar8r8 5.2 fsi spyderr8 spyderrecallThu, 11 Aug 2011 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20015547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/11/2011-12-audi-r8-spyder-recalled-for-fuel-leak/20015547/article-detail.xml 20015547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01audir8spyderfd2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01audir8spyderfd2011.jpg <![CDATA[New R8 Limited Edition celebrates 10 Le Mans victories for Audi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/new-r8-limited-edition-celebrates-10-le-mans-victories-for-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/new-r8-limited-edition-celebrates-10-le-mans-victories-for-audi/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/new-r8-limited-edition-celebrates-10-le-mans-victories-for-audi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition
Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has worked up a special edition version of the company's R8 to commemorate the German automaker's victories at Le Mans. Powered by the same 430 horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 found in the base coupe, the R8 V8 Limited Edition models are available with special titanium-effect paint with titanium-toned wheels to match. Those rollers are 19-inch double Y-spoke bits that were crafted in the spitting image of the hardware found on the R8 GT Coupe. Buyers can also expect to find a set of red brake calipers tucked behind the wheels. All of the company's standard metallic and pearl effect paint options will also be available on the commemorative cars.

Inside, the R8 V8 Limited Edition comes with satellite navigation and Audi Music Interface with a Bang and Olufsen sound system as well as a unique interior lighting package and Bluetooth hands-free calling. Prices start at £93,935 in the UK. That figure translates to around $150,000 (including Britain's costly Value Added Tax), though there's no clear indication as to whether or not any of the 100 examples will make their way to the States or how much Audi will ask U.S. buyers to pay. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading New R8 Limited Edition celebrates 10 Le Mans victories for Audi

New R8 Limited Edition celebrates 10 Le Mans victories for Audi originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mansaudiaudi le mansAudi R8Audi R8 V8 Limited Editionle mansr8r8 v8r8 v8 limited editionWed, 29 Jun 2011 17:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19979674/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/29/new-r8-limited-edition-celebrates-10-le-mans-victories-for-audi/19979674/article-detail.xml 19979674 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-r8-v8-limited-edition-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-r8-v8-limited-edition-630.jpg <![CDATA[Audi donates two chrome R8 Spyders to raise $1 million for Elton John AIDS Foundation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/audi-donates-two-chrome-r8-spyders-to-raise-1-million-for-elton/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/audi-donates-two-chrome-r8-spyders-to-raise-1-million-for-elton/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/audi-donates-two-chrome-r8-spyders-to-raise-1-million-for-elton/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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

Back in the day, there were two automakers responsible for the famed Silver Arrows of pre-war Germany. One was Mercedes-Benz, the other Auto Union. The former has been known to revive the honorific from time to time, but with Horch, DKW and Wanderer all long gone, the only one of the four Auto Union brands that's still around is Audi.

The Ingolstadt-based automaker has, as much as it Stuttgart-based rival, become a favorite among modifiers who chrome-dip every panel of their cars. Even the automaker itself showed off a chromed R8 5.2 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009, and has now created a special chrome R8 Spyder for no less glitzy a celebrity than Elton John.

In fact, Audi made two of these R8s, both donated for auction to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation at its annual White Tie & Tiara benefit at Sir Elton's home. The first was sold for £250,000 (about $400,000). The second was sold for a similar amount, then donated back to the foundation and re-sold again, the two cars raising a total of £620,000 between them - that's nearly a cool million in American greenbacks.

Check out the bling in the high-res image gallery and the pair of press releases after the jump.

Continue reading Audi donates two chrome R8 Spyders to raise $1 million for Elton John AIDS Foundation

Audi donates two chrome R8 Spyders to raise $1 million for Elton John AIDS Foundation originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 audi r8 spyderaudielton johnelton john aids foundationr8r8 spyderMon, 27 Jun 2011 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19976861/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/27/audi-donates-two-chrome-r8-spyders-to-raise-1-million-for-elton/19976861/article-detail.xml 19976861 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web-chrome-r8-spyder_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web-chrome-r8-spyder.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Audi R8 GT [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/2012-audi-r8-gt-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/2012-audi-r8-gt-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/2012-audi-r8-gt-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Supercar Without The Bad Attitude

2012 Audi R8 GT
2012 Audi R8 GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Regardless of the frequency, our pulse still races every time we fire up a ten-cylinder engine. It's not just the unique sound or the warbled vibration that gets the blood flowing - it's the anticipation. Whether the badge says Gallardo, Viper or M5, a V10 under the hood promises intoxicating power and frenzied excitement.

The new Audi R8 GT packs just such an engine - a 5.2-liter V10. Mid-mounted in an aluminum and magnesium monocoque chassis, the powerplant is rated at 560 horsepower. With all-wheel drive and a sequential gearbox, the coupe rockets to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds before hitting an aerodynamic wall just shy of 200 miles per hour. It is, notes Audi, the lightest, fastest and most powerful supercar in its lineup.

Constructing the R8 GT was hardly a mild undertaking. Audi first put the R8 on a diet, shedding 180 pounds. They then turned their attention to the powerplant, where engineers were able to coax the 5.2-liter V10 into delivering another 35 hp. The suspension, brakes and underpinnings were upgraded, while the automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive system received their own new set of commands. Lastly, unique cosmetic touches were applied that not only improved the R8's appearance, but boosted performance.

As Audi has limited production of the R8 GT to just 333 copies worldwide (with only 90 examples falling into very lucky hands within the United States), we consider ourselves fortunate to be one of just a handful of journalists at Sonoma, California's Infineon Raceway to put the world's newest exotic through its paces on a race circuit.

Continue reading 2012 Audi R8 GT [w/video]

2012 Audi R8 GT [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi r8 gt2012+audi2012audiaudiaudi+r8audi+r8+gtaudir8audir8gtcarbon+fiber+r8+brakescarbonfiberr8brakesfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveinfineonr8r8 gtr8 v10Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19972971/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/22/2012-audi-r8-gt-first-drive-review/19972971/article-detail.xml 19972971 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-audi-r8-gt-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-audi-r8-gt-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 GT Spyder promo is sexy, but SFW]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/18/audi-pimps-the-r8-gt-spyder-in-new-trailer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/18/audi-pimps-the-r8-gt-spyder-in-new-trailer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/18/audi-pimps-the-r8-gt-spyder-in-new-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Audi R8 GT Spyder
Audi R8 GT Spyder promo - Click above to watch video after the jump

This promo clip for the V10, 5.2-liter, 560-horsepower, 197-mph Audi R8 GT Spyder isn't NSFW, but you'll probably watch it as if it were. While it's playing, you'll forget about everything else on Earth until someone clears their throat behind you and asks, "What is that you're watching?" You'll replay it a few times and make mental notes like, "Oh yeah, that's my favorite part." And when it ends it will always feel like it's too soon. Two minutes of totally SFW video is after the jump. But don't say we didn't warn you.

Continue reading Audi R8 GT Spyder promo is sexy, but SFW

Audi R8 GT Spyder promo is sexy, but SFW originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Jun 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi r8 gt spyderaudiaudi r8 gt spyderr8r8 gtr8 gt spydervideoyoutubeSat, 18 Jun 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19970352/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/18/audi-pimps-the-r8-gt-spyder-in-new-trailer/19970352/article-detail.xml 19970352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/audir8gtspyderclip_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/audir8gtspyderclip.jpg -1 2