PHOTO: One of the last supercars with a naturally aspirated engine, the Audi R8 Coupe V10 RWD’s 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine sends its output to the rear wheels.
Latest version of iconic V10-powered model debuts in the Philippines, complements 100% electric performance of Audi e-tron GT range.
“Born on the racetrack, built for the road;” no Audi has been closer to motor racing than the Audi R8. Now, the new Audi R8 Coupe V10 RWD arrives in the Philippines with its glorious supercar era-defining internal combustion engine, complementing the progressive 100 percent electric power plant of the equally high-performance Audi e-tron GT range.
Like all the RS models built by Audi Sport, Audi AG’s high-performance division, the R8 Coupe V10 RWD went through over 8,000 kilometers of development work and testing at the demanding Nurburgring track in Germany.
The Audi R8 Coupe V10 RWD is one of the last supercars with a naturally aspirated engine. Powering it is a 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine that makes 570 hp and 550 Nm. A seven-speed s-tronic dual clutch transmission sends these output to the rear wheels, with a mechanical limited-slip differential distributing the power based on the driving situation. Combined with these are a lightweight body and structure built mostly from aluminum and carbon fiber reinforced plastic components, resulting in the Audi R8 V10 RWD being able to sprint from rest to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 329 km/h.
The Audi R8 V10 RWD’s driving dynamics is tuned to the rear-wheel drive setup. When Sport Mode is activated, the suspension and control systems will allow controlled drifts. The electromechanical power steering provides precise reaction and feedback, while also making parking or maneuvering in tight spots easier. Extra-light 19-inch and 20-inch aluminum cast wheels ensure precise handling and lane control during quick turns. High-performance brakes guarantee controlled deceleration every time.
Illustrating the Audi R8 V10 RWD’s supercar nature is a cockpit completely focused on the driver. The model’s seating position is similar to the LMS racecars in which only the driver can operate all key functions without him having to take his hands off the steering wheel, or look away from the road. The multifunction steering wheel plus integrates buttons for the MMI, ignition, the basic modes of Audi drive select, and the performance programs. The 12.3-inch display of the Audi virtual cockpit shows information from the MMI navigation plus, as well as a tachometer.
Audi builds the R8 V10 RWD at its Bollinger Hofe plant in Neckarsulm, Germany, alongside the LMS GT4 racecar — with which the road-going version shares nearly 60 percent of its parts. Besides these models, Audi also produces the Audi e-tron GT range at the same site. The factory uses only eco-electricity and heat from regenerative sources. This means production of the Audi R8 and e-tron GT are net carbon-neutral, and proves that high performance and environment-friendly processes can co-exist.
