SuperheroRide: PGA Cars previews hot, new Audi R8

MANILA, Philippines - The new Audi R8 features a bolder, more imposing look as well as a new transmission system to further give it an edge among its supercar competition. From the outside, the new R8 features a restructured all-LED headlight and taillight system with set accents that highlight Audi’s exquisite attention to design detail. Up front, the single-frame high-polished grille now features tapered corners at the top, while the redesigned diffuser and large, rounder tailpipes round up the transformation at the back. The R8 also comes with a variety of new alloy wheel designs measuring 19 inches and up.

As Audi’s technological tour de force, the high-performance supercar now comes with a newly developed 7-speed S-tronic transmission. This fast-shifting dual-clutch transmission enables the R8 to cut its sprint times by 0.3 seconds while improving fuel consumption by 0.9 liters per 100 kilometers. Aside from the new transmission, Audi adds a new launch control function that provides optimal traction when starting. And of course, power is delivered via Audi’s trademark quattro permanent all-wheel drive system with a rear-axle bias. The R8 is also available with standard sports suspension that features a dynamically tuned suspension and damping as well as Audi Magnetic Ride.

Currently, Audi is offering the new R8 with a single engine: a high-revving 4.2-liter V8 engine featuring FSI or Fuel Stratified Injection technology delivering 430hp at 7,900 rpm and 430Nm of torque from 4,500 to 6,000 rpm. This enables the R8 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 301 km/h. The range-topping 5.2-liter V10 powered R8 will soon join the line-up as well. And aside from the potent powerplant and drivetrain, thanks to Audi’s expertise in ultra-lightweight construction, the new R8 weighs at a svelte 1,560 kilograms—as much as a regular sedan but with two to three times the power.

With all this power available, Audi has made sure to give the R8 surefooted braking courtesy of internally vented and perforated disc brakes with 8-piston fixed calipers at the front and 4-piston fixed calipers at the back. The brakes feature a wave design that reduces the weight without sacrificing performance or longevity. For those who want only the best, Audi is also offering optional carbon fiber-ceramic disc brakes that are even lighter and boast better heat resistance.

Despite Audi’s unparalleled attention to give the R8 world-class performance, it doesn’t scrimp on luxury and convenience features. Standard features include automatic climate control, a multi-functional sports steering wheel, Nappa leather sport seats, and a 140-watt 7-speaker system. Other available features include electric seat adjustment, Bluetooth hands-free phone integration, and a Bang and Olufsen 12-speaker surround sound system.

The new R8 is now available for viewing at Audi’s showrooms in Greenhills, Alabang, and Global City with units set to arrive starting the third quarter of this year. Meanwhile, Marvel comic book and superhero fans can also see the new R8 (along with the Audi A8 L) on the big screen in The Wolverine which is now showing at all movie theatres nationwide.