Audi reveals 562hp R8 V10 Performance RWD

Audi has revealed the newest addition to its R8 lineup, the 562-horsepower R8 V10 Performance RWD.

According to the German automotive brand, the R8 V10 Performance RWD (rear wheel drive) is the sporty new cutting edge of serial rear-wheel-drive sports cars from Audi. This new performance model effectively replaces the R8 V10 Quattro and the R8 V10 RWD.

“The Audi R8 V10 RWD really struck a chord with customers right from the start with its rear-wheel drive derived from the R8 LMS race car and its unfiltered dynamics. Now it has 30ps (29.5hp) and 10Nm more, taking the driving experience to a whole new level,” said Audi Sport GmbH Managing Director Sebastian Grams.

Outside, the R8 V10 Performance RWD features GT4-inspired design elements including a matte black flat singleframe radiator grille (with an R8 emblem flanked by large air intakes), front splitters, rear air outlet grid, and oval tailpipes.

The cabin of the R8 V10 Performance RWD was designed and engineered to resemble a race car cockpit. The “Monoposto” encloses the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch screen and a multifunctional leather steering wheel.

R8 bucket or sports seats — upholstered in leather — come as an optional add-on.

Thanks to the power coming from its naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 FSI engine, this mid-mounted engine sportscar speeds from zero to 100kph in 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 204mph. The coupe version, on the other hand, speeds from standstill to 100kph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 203mph.

Its 562-horsepower mill is mated to a seven-speed S tronic gearbox. Deceleration comes from an 18-inch high-performance steel braking system with a wave design.

Meanwhile, a mechanical limited-slip differential distributes the torque ideally based on the driving situation, ensuring prime traction even when the roads are wet. In addition, its electronic stabilization control (ESC) makes controlled drifting possible.

An electromechanical power steering provides close contact with the road.

The suspension system of the Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD has been adapted to suit the rear-wheel-drive platform. It sports double wishbones and a passive differential lock with an axle distribution ratio of 40:60.

Production, “largely by hand,” will be done at the brand’s Böllinger Höfe plant in Neckarsulm, Germany. Audi says that they will start accepting orders starting October 21.

The R8 V10 Performance RWD coupe and spyder models will be offered in four variants with prices ranging from £126,885 to £162,680.

Photos from Audi

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