Launch of the All-New Audi R8 in the Middle East
Audi Middle East held a launch event in Abu Dhabi to unveil the all-new R8 and the R Sport brand for the region. You can read more about the launch here. Let’s take a closer look at the R8. We will focus on the V10 Plus model, as it was the only version available at the event.
Vehicle Details
The R8 is completely redesigned and shares many components with the LMS (approximately 50% of the parts are the same). It features a new performance mode that offers three driving settings:
- Dry
- Wet
- Snow
The weight of the Audi R8 V10 Plus is 1,454 kg. It also includes Audi's new virtual cockpit, which I consider one of the best I've ever seen.
New Audi R8 Engines
The all-new R8 offers two new engine options:
- 5.2L V10 with 540 horsepower
- R8 V10 Plus with 610 horsepower
This makes it the fastest production car in Audi's history. Both versions come with a 7-speed S-Tronic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, allowing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 9.9 seconds, with a top speed of 330 km/h for the V10 Plus.
Driving Experience
I had the opportunity to test drive the new Audi R8 at the Yas Marina Circuit. The session consisted of three laps to familiarize the driver with the car's dynamics, especially the transmission, to learn how to use the pedals for the desired speed. The "downshift" function worked smoothly. Following this, we took a fast lap that was thrilling and enjoyable. The car handled excellently most of the time, although I occasionally felt a lack of control, which is common in all-wheel-drive vehicles, so I wasn't too surprised. I was busy enjoying the impressive sound of the V10 engine. Compared to its cousin, the Lamborghini Huracan, it is somewhat quieter. Overall, the experience on the track was immensely satisfying. Thus, my first impression of the new R8 was very positive.
Check out the Audi R8 Buyer’s Guide.
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