Even sharper and more striking: the Audi R8 V10 RWD and the Audi R8 LMS GT4
Our updated rear-wheel-drive R8 model returns to the range as a permanent fixture alongside the further enhanced R8 GT4 customer racing car.
The Audi R8 V10 RWD uses the design and technological foundations of the 540PS version of the latest generation R8 and combines rear-drive handling characteristics delivered by a mechanical rear differential and an intelligent stabilisation control system that allows controlled drifting for drivers who occasionally have a circuit to hand.
Those who see a chequered flag on a more regular basis are also now catered for by the near-production-level Audi R8 LMS GT4 - the customer sport racing car for the international GT4 category. It also features rear-wheel drive and is being released at the same time with a new design and optimised vehicle dynamics.
Both models are expected to open for ordering in the UK in January 2020 with deliveries from March.
The design of the R8 V10 RWD
The new design features highlight the dynamics of the Audi R8 V10 RWD, which is offered as a Coupé and Spyder. The Singleframe is broader and flatter, and the slits below the bonnet nod to one of the brand’s icons, the Audi Sport Quattro.
The air inlets, the front splitter and, in particular, the air outlet grille at the rear have become broader. The diffuser, which is flanked by two oval tailpipes, has moved further upwards. In the engine compartment, the air filter is situated under a new cover, which is available in carbon fibre.
The sideblades of the R8 V10 RWD hint at the model’s special status: the top blade is designed in glossy mythos black, while the bottom blade is painted in the colour of the vehicle. The front blade, the side sill inserts and the diffuser are painted in gloss black as standard. The new colour Kemora grey has also been added to the palette of exterior finishes. Inside, the driver and passenger sit in sport seats covered in leather and Alcantara – ahead of the passenger, an inset RWD logo denotes this model’s special status.
The heart of the high-performance sports car: the 5.2 FSI
The heart of the Audi R8 V10 RWD high-performance sports car beats behind the passenger cell. The naturally aspirated V10 delivers lightning-fast response and immense torque to the tune of an incomparable soundtrack. The 5.2 FSI delivers 540PS, and at 6,500 rpm achieves a peak torque of 540 Nm which is transferred to the rear wheels through a seven-speed S tronic and a mechanical locking differential.
The R8 V10 RWD Coupé accelerates from zero to 62mph in 3.7 seconds, and powers on to a 198mph maximum speed. The values for the Spyder are 3.8 seconds and 197mph.
The race car: Audi R8 LMS GT4
The GT4 race car is exclusively intended for private drivers. Since 2018, the original model has accumulated as many as 17 titles worldwide in racing. The latest generation version takes visual cues directly from the production model and impresses with driving dynamics that have been further enhanced. The 5.2-litre V10 engine, delivering up to 495PS as specified by the regulations, powers the racing car through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
For the first time, the ABS and traction control (TC) systems can be precisely adjusted. The program characteristics allow for eight different settings, respectively, which the driver can individually select, depending on weather, track conditions and tyre grip when racing. For this purpose, the Audi R8 LMS GT4 is equipped with the steering wheel of the GT2 racing version. The two rotary switches for ABS and TC are centrally located in the steering wheel, directly in the driver’s view. This allows them to immediately respond to new challenges and to configure their personal setup of both systems while keeping their eyes focused on the race track.
As most GT4 racing series prescribe driver changes, individual preferences can be easily and accurately selected before and after the pit stop. With these enhanced setup options, the drivers of the Audi R8 LMS GT4 are now even more competitive.
