Audi Takes the Top off of the R8
If you could never afford or ultimately missed out on the now defunct Lamborghini Gallardo, Audi’s R8 has long been your next best option. Designed and manufactured exclusively at Audi’s high-performance Quattro GmbH subsidiary, the Gallardo-based R8 (it uses the Lambo’s platform) has been the hallmark of Audi’s patented Quattro all-wheel drive system since its 2006 debut — and nothing has changed in the decade since. Now the German automaker is back with its latest version of the vehicle, following up last year’s rendition with its latest R8 Spyder V10.
Coupling a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 with a seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission, the car still boasts 540 horsepower and acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds (before hitting a top speed of 197 mph), but ditches the original hardtop in favor of a new fabric roof. Retractable at speeds of up to 31 mph, the roof can open or close in just 20 seconds — meaning this is the perfect R8 for the warmer months ahead.
The 2017 Audi R8 Spyder V10 will hit dealers later this year. In the meantime, head on over to Autoblog to check out Audi’s full press release for the vehicle.