2022 Audi R8 V10 performance RWD debuts – 5.2L V10 now with 570 PS, 550 Nm; 0-100 km/h as low as 3.7s

Nearly two years ago, Audi made the R8 V10 RWD a permanent addition to its line-up. Fast forward to today, the German automaker has now introduced a more powerful version called the R8 V10 performance RWD.

The new model replaces the previous RWD and will still be offered in coupe and convertible (Spyder) guises. With its introduction, the entire R8 line-up is now effectively made up of “performance” models, as the R8 V10 quattro has been discontinued.

The R8 V10 performance RWD retains its mid-mounted, Lamborghini-derived 5.2 litre naturally-aspirated V10 engine, but it now makes 570 PS (562 hp) and 550 Nm of torque. The figures represent a 30 PS (30 hp) and 10 Nm increase from before, and match those of the defunct R8 V10 quattro. Only the R8 V10 performance quattro is more powerful with 620 PS (612 hp) and 580 Nm.

Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and mechanical limited-slip differential, with the coupe taking 3.7 seconds to get from 0-100 km/h (3.8 seconds for the Spyder) and capable of a top speed of 329 km/h (327 km/h for the Spyder). The Spyder is slower due to the additional hardware needed for its folding soft-top, which means it weighs more at 1,695 kg compared to the coupe’s 1,590 kg.

Audi recalibrated the double-wishbone suspension and driving dynamics for the rear-wheel drive setup, so drivers will be able to perform “controlled drifts” when Sport mode is activated in the ESC system.

A new addition is the optional Dynamic steering system for “even more precise reaction and feedback” when cornering as well as during low-speed manoeuvres like parking. Other driving-related options include a set of Cup tyres measuring 245/30 at the front and 305/30 at the rear, along with a 19-inch ceramic braking system as an upgrade over the standard 18-inch steel setup.

The new RWD model gets a matte black finish for its grille, front splitter, rear outlet grid and oval tailpipes, while 10 body colours are available, including Ascari Blue Metallic – previously only available for the R8 V10 performance quattro. An optional Edition package adds 20-inch bronze wheels, red brake calipers, carbon-fibre side blades and black badges.

Inside, there’s a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a leather multi-function steering wheel and optional bucket or sports seats trimmed in leather and Alcantara. The optional “R8 performance” design package introduces black Alcantara and leather upholstery with Mercato Blue stitching, along with carbon-fibre inlays.

In Germany, the base price for the coupe version of the R8 V10 performance RWD is 149,000 euros (RM719,947), while the Spyder starts at 162,000 euros (RM782,762). The order books will be open from October 21 and the car is largely hand-built at Audi’s Böllinger Höfe in Neckarsulm, Germany, the same site where the R8 LMS GT4 is built.

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