Audi R8 Spyder V10 debuts at New York Auto Show

Audi R8 Spyder

The second-generation Audi R8 Spyder V10 has been revealed at the New York International Auto Show. Replacing the original Spyder from 2010, there isn’t much that we haven’t seen already of the new model, thanks to a set of very revealing spyshots.

However, we do have the facts to accompany a set of fresh official photos this time around. For starters, the brand’s 5.2 litre naturally-aspirated V10 is present and correct, developing 540 hp and 540 Nm. The R8 Spyder V10 is capable of performing the century sprint in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 318 km/h.

The variant is also equipped with a seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system as standard. For additional exhaust volume, an optional sports exhaust is available. Audi has made no mention of the rumoured turbo V6 engine or a V10 plus variant for the R8 Spyder.

Audi R8 Spyder

Overall, the new Spyder is 14 mm shorter and 36 mm wider than the previous open-top sports car. It measures 4,426 mm long, 1,940 mm wide and 1,244 mm tall. Its wheelbase stretches 2,650 mm long.

All of the R8 Coupe’s key styling elements are clearly visible, save for a few unique items. The familiar Audi Singleframe grille features a honeycomb pattern, flanked by standard-fit LED headlights. Audi’s laser light technology is optionally available for the R8’s front lighting, but directional indicators front and rear are standard-fit on all models.

The coupe’s glass panel at the rear has been replaced with a new carbon fibre-reinforced cover that’s reminiscent of the previous R8 Spyder. Also, a new honeycomb mesh trim has been added between the tail lamps. Up top, the Spyder’s cloth roof is said to weigh 44 kg, and tucks away into the rear storage compartment above the engine bay.

Audi R8 Spyder

At the press of a button, an electro-hydraulic drive can open and close the soft top in just 20 seconds. This can be done while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. The hood module is located behind the seats, comprising of components for the roll-over protection, hood, hood tray, rear-window compartment and a multiple-joint hinge for the hood compartment cover.

Audi adds that the cabin is much quieter than the previous model, with the fabric wind deflector said to make the cabin even quieter and reduce wind turbulence with the roof down – cutting reverse flow around the head by about 90%, and around the shoulder and neck by about 80%. The rear windscreen can also act as an extra deflector, or retracted to allow more of the V10’s roar to enter the cabin.

Despite its chopped roof, the German car maker says that the torsional rigidity of the Spyder’s chassis has been increased by 50% over its predecessor. The new multi-material Audi Space Frame and several reinforcements made to the sills, A-pillars and windscreen frame contributes to this.

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Chris Aaron

With an equal passion for fast cars and everyday workhorses, Chris Aaron maintains a passion for European makes, Formula 1, playing the electric guitar and spending endless hours on the PlayStation - first-person shooters and the Gran Turismo franchise are his favourites. He also finds it strange to have written this in the third person.

 
 

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