Audi’s next R8 is already in development with promises of being fast enough and advanced enough to keep up with supercar competitors like Lamborghini and Porsche (which it actually share a parent with).

Two variants will be available for the next R8, starting with a 4,2-liter V8, and going up to the 5.2-liter V10, both mated to a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. Each being based on the first-generation’s power, refinements have been made for greater horsepower and improved fuel economy. The V10 is expected to kick out 550hp, and still provide 25.7 mpg.

A GT is also in the works for limited production and 2016 release that makes 580 hp from a 5.2-liter V10 engine, expected to compete with the Ferrari 458 Scudiera and others in the segment.

Check out more news on the Audi R8.

Design for the R8 is expected to set the standard for Audi models to follow, and will include E-Tron, aluminum structure, four-wheel drive, and a mid-engine layout. Exterior design should be totally different from the current R8.

Borrowing from Porsche, the R8 should be receiving additional technology like brake energy recuperation and automatic stop-start.

Audi is also setting out to cut weight down on the R8, even though new safety technology is included, using a modular construction process. More carbon fiber parts have been added along with aluminum monocoque to lighten the body, as well.

The model is scheduled for debut at the Moscow Motor Show in August, with release in the UK as a coupe for late 2014, and a roadster for mid-2015.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: AutoCar

The hand-built 2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder will see a limited production run of just 333 units, however, only 50 will make it to the United States.

Each model will come with a uniquely distinguished with an individual vehicle number displayed on the gear shift and a starting price tag of 211,200 (including $1,200 Destination and Delivery and Taxes).

Check out the full list of standard and optional features after the jump.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder comes from 5.2 liter FSI V10 that produces 560 horsepower and a peak torque of 398 lb-ft. That means each unit of horsepower has(6.46 lb). Mated to a 6-speed R tronic transmission with two fully automatic modes, the R8 GT Spyder goes from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 197 mph. Only 333 units will be produced.

R8 GT Spyder Standard Features | Highlights:
− 5.2L 10-cylinder, gasoline engine, aluminum block
− quattro® all-wheel-drive
− Exterior mirrors: power adjustable, heated Front Airbags: Driver and passenger full-size dual-stage front airbags and knee airbags
− Side airbags: Driver and passenger seat mounted head and thorax airbags
− Front disc brakes: 8-Piston calipers, perforated, internally vented
− Rear disc brakes: 4-Piston calipers, perforated, internally vented
− LED headlights and daytime running lights
− Sport seats, heated, 10-way power with 4-way power lumbar
− Audi navigation system plus, 6-disc CD changer, Sirius Satellite Radio, Aux-in jack with 7 speakers and 5-channel amplifier with a total output of 140 Watts
− Preparation for mobile phone (Bluetooth®) with seatbelt microphone

R8 GT Specific Standard Features | Highlights:
− 19″ R8 GT wheels with summer performance tires
− R tronic ®, 6-speed sequential gearbox with shift-by-wire technology and sports mode
− R8 GT specific sport suspension system
− R8 GT specific carbon fiber matte exterior mirrors
− R8 GT specific LED tail lights
− R8 GT specific aluminum door sill inserts
− R8 GT specific steering wheel
− R8 GT specific sport seats in Alcantara and leather
− R8 GT specific carbon fiber matte interior inlays (monoposto and interior door handles)
− R8 GT specific numbered aluminum gear knob
− Windshield frame in Alcantara

Optional Equipment | Highlights:
− Audi navigation system plus with Audi music interface w/ iPod® cable (replaces 6-disc CD changer)
− Audi Carbon Ceramic Brakes
− Bang & Olufsen Sound System (12 speakers 495 watt)
− Titanium Finish 19″ 5-arm-double-spoke-design aluminum alloy wheels with summer performance tires
− Forged Aluminum 19″ 5-twin-spoke-Y-design in matte silver look with summer performance tires
− Carbon fiber matte door and center console panels
− Windscreen Frame in Fine Nappa Leather (interior)

- By: Omar Rana

Audi announced today that it will be heavily investing into its future and will hire close to 1,200 workers in 2012. Between 2012 through 2016, Audi plans to invest at total of €13 billion ($16.9 billion USD) in new products and technologies and in expanding its plants.

Almost €8 billion ($8 billion USD) of this investment will be allocated for the German locations of Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm.

“We are aiming to achieve strong growth on an international scale and boost our lightweight construction and electric mobility areas of expertise in particular,” said Thomas Sigi, Member of the Board of Management for Human Resources at Audi. “That is why we will be hiring even more people and are planning to appoint a further 1,200 experts next year.”

Audi hired a total of 3,500 workers in 2011.

Next year, the automaker plans on bring various models to the roads including the A8 Hybrid, next-generation A3, S6, S7 and S8. The company will also introduce the limited production Audi R8 e-tron.

- By: Omar Rana

The Audi R8 was a game changer for the luxury German automaker when it hit roads in 2006. Well, the R8 is now nearing the end of its lifecycle and according to new reports, Audi is working on a successor to the R8 for spring 2014.

While the car was introduced in 2006, this isn’t the first change to the R8. In 2012, Audi will give the R8 supercar a mild facelift and some technology upgrades. Later in the year, the R8 will receive a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, an improved MMI system, increase in the power coming from V10 (up to 540-hp). Towards the end of 2012 and beginning of 2013, Audi will introduce the R8 e-tron in very limited numbers.

2014 is the year when the R8 will get a second-generation model, which will receive a nice redesign, the manual transmission will be axed and plenty of new tech.

Click here for more news on the Audi R8.

Will it be lighter and faster? Of course. Rumors suggest that the V10 will be dropped for the twin-turbo V8 in the Continental GT and S8 and should be upgraded to produce around 600-hp.

We’re looking forward to what Audi has in store.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CAR

As beautiful as Audi’s lineup is inside-out, it’s hard to find a nice variety of design differences between most of its vehicles. For example, the new A6 looks very similar to the A4 and the A7 looks very similar to the A8. Audi has heard the feedback of its customers and is working on a range-wide revamp of its design language as it expands its lineup with a range of new SUVs, sedans and sports cars.

Audi design director Stefan Sielaff says that the company is already into the project and will closely define a set of individual themes for each of the three major segments.

The new project is known as AQR – A which stands for Audi (sedans and hatches), Q for Quattro (SUVs) and R for sports cars.

“We know that some people think our saloons look too alike and are well into a project to change that,” Sielaff told AutoCar, “we will mainly do that with the proportions of those cars”.

We guess we can expect some nice Audi design concepts to debut very soon.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana, Nikolina Kostrevski - egmCarTech.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

The exterior gets a hefty carbon fiber treatment with a front grill, hood, side skirts, rear spoiler, and additional front, side, and rear detailing. A set of 20-inch alloys have also been added.

Click here for more news on the Audi R8.

Interior upgrades include options for a full leather interior, custom floor mats, and aluminum sills and pedals.

Power has been modified with a sport exhaust system and sport air filter, with an output of 552-hp at 800 rpm and a maximum torque of 405 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm.

- By: Alexandra Koken

• Key Competitors: Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, Mercedes SL63 AMG, Ferrari 458 Spider.
• Power: 5.2l V-10 560 hp.
• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
• Performance: 0-60 in 3.8 seconds, 197 mph top speed.
• Pricing: $210,000.
• Availability: 333 in total, 50 to the US.

Ingolstadt’s famous, or Audi, has just unveiled its latest iteration of their superb R8 for the North American market here at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show: the 2012 R8 GT Spyder.

As you’d expect from the name and by viewing the pictures, this latest R8 is a drop top. Pegging itself  as a step above the standard R8 V10 Spyder, the R8 GT Spyder is powered by the top of the line R8’s Lamborghini-based 5.2L FSI V10 that produces 560hp and 398 lb-ft of torques. Mated to a six-speed R-Tronic sequential semi-automatic gearbox.

Only a small total of 333 R8 GT Spyders will be produced with just 90 hitting our shores.

- By: Chris Chin

Work on the second-generation Audi R8‘s carbon fiber/aluminum architecture is already under way and will also pin the next Lamborghini Gallardo.

The move will help Porsche save on development costs and development time that it takes to build an architecture from scratch. The car is expected to be launched in 2015.

The next Audi R8 is rumored to get the new V8 twin-turbo that recently debut in the S8 – the engine can be pushed to more than 513-hp. A new dual-clutch 7-speed S-tronic gearbox will take place of the current automated six-speeder.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

Rumors have been floating around that Audi was planning on an addition: a baby R8. And apparently, reports say Audi insiders have been leaking quite a bit of information.

Internally known as the R4, the model will be a two-seater sports car that will sit in between the Audi TT and the Audi R8 to rival the new drop-dead gorgeous Jaguar C-X16.

“If the go-ahead was given today, it would take around three years to put into production,” said the source. “If you start with a roadster, it’s easy to make a coupe version, too [it’s simply a matter of putting a roof on].”

The engines supplied are said to be Audi’s new 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder that is estimated to produce around 400hp. A hybrid function is also a possibility and will be integrated into the R4’s standard all-wheel drive system. An electric motor will sit at the front axle, with the engine in the middle. Neither of the motors will be mechanically connected and will instead use a clever torque vectoring system that first debuted in the e-tron Spyder, the source indicated.

When driven, the R4 would be able to drive its electric motor alone for up to 37 mph and 30 miles.

The source concluded that if the R4 were to get the greenlight, it would cost around £50,000.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoExpress

Given Audi’s current propensity for aluminum and the controversial carbon fiber stripe on the existing R8 supercar, welcome and unsurprising news comes from Audi that the next R8 will have a hybrid aluminum and carbon fiber chassis. VW group ownership of both the R8 and the new Lamborghini Aventador begs the question: why not a carbon fiber monocoque?

Though not exactly in the same class, McLaren’s alphabet soup car also sports the carbon fiber monocoque, further egging on the question of an all-carbon car.

Audi’s head of development, Michael Dick says the use of both materials yields even better results, suggesting that the choice allows for a lighter car: the tub alone loses 45 pounds out of 490. Dick also pointed out that it is the less expensive way to go. Will Audi pass this savings onto the consumer is the question though.

In the unconfirmed rumor mill, there is discussion of an R8 “NF” lightweight supercar and a dual clutch transmission, either way, it seems those who enjoy driving fast Audis will probably continue enjoying fast Audis.

- By: Sawyer Sutton

Source: Automobilwoche

Those of you who lust after an R8 that may be slightly out of reach now have a better chance then anticipated to experience one first hand.

Audi is holding a contest via Twitter, asking fans to tweet using the hashtag #WantAnR8 as a way to tell Audi why you would want an R8. Easy enough, right? So far, Joanne McCoy has won a day with ‘her’ R8, and Audi still has more to offer.

Click here for more news on the Audi R8.

Additionally, the brand is extending the contest to the approaching Petit Le Mans race, where people attending will get the chance to drive an R8 that day.

- By: Alexandra Koken

- By: Omar Rana

The Audi e-tron concept is powered by four electric motors – two each at the front and rear axles – producing 313-hp and a maximum torque of 3,319 lb-ft of torque (501.5 lb-ft in real world terms). 0 to 62 mph comes in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 124 mph. Driving range equals 154 miles on a full charge.

Click here for more news on the Audi R8 e-tron.

Audi will build 1,000 units of the R8 e-tron. The model is set to go on sale in select markets by the end of 2012 – U.S. is one of them.

- By: Omar Rana

When Audi unveiled the new 2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder, production of which will be capped at 333 units, it said that only 90 units would come to the United States.

Well, it seems like Audi has changed its mind. Days before the Audi R8 GT Spyder’s debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi says that only 50 units will make it to the stateside.

Seeing as each unit will sell for $200,000+ in the United States, we expect the GT Spyder to remain very exclusive – that is unless Audi does a 2013 model year.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder comes from 5.2 liter FSI V10 that produces 560 horsepower and a peak torque of 398 lb-ft. That means each unit of horsepower has(6.46 lb). Mated to a 6-speed R tronic transmission with two fully automatic modes, the R8 GT Spyder goes from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 197 mph. Only 333 units will be produced.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Inside Line

With cameras and witness phone calls, police caught many drivers in a group of 13 that were driving sports cars at speeds estimated to be over 120mph, however, are unable to go forward with more charges.

Police have the cars on film near the George Massey Tunnel, but there is nothing there to get the drivers on speeding charges. Norm Gaumont, RCMP traffic services; Supt. says “We already checked the cameras… nothing dangerous happened in the tunnel.”

The drivers are being charged with driving without due consideration for others. They are also facing multiple fines, including $196 ticket, $300 in penalty points premium, and towing and storage costs of approximately $350.

Consisting of 12 men and one woman, the group of drivers were all under 21, and many still had a novice license. Only one of the 13 actually owned the vehicle they were driving. All of the vehicles are impounded for seven days. The vehicles include three Lamborghinis, three Nissans, a Ferrari, an Audi, and Aston Martin, and two Mercedes.

The drivers with novice licences are having them reviewed for possible further penalty, however Gaumont says “We don’t have police officers who observed the offence, and we don’t have lasers and radars that have the speeds. We have to really depend on third-party individuals who had called in.”

Gaumont still believes that Surry has sufficient street racing deterrents, despite the incident.

The 13 vehicles seized:

• 2007 Ferrari 599
• 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo
• 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo
• 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo
• 2009 Audi R8
• 2012 Nissan GT-R
• 2010 Nissan GT-R
• 2010 Nissan GT-R
• 2010 Maserati GranTurismo
• 2010 Maserati GranTurismo
• 2011 Mercedes SL63 AMG
• 2011 Mercedes SLS AMG
• 2005 Aston Martin DB9

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: Driving

Audi’s R8 LMS model has won its 100th race, marked by a win at the 24- hour race at pa-Francorchamps. Hitosuyama Racing is responsible for the win, in the GT3 Asia Series.

After its 2008 Essen Motor Show debut, the Audi GT3 sportscar lead to the Audi AG, which was created for customer teams. Taking the win in just about every third race, the R8 LMS has seen some of the most success out of the GT3 category cars.

Audi Managing Direct of quattro Werner Frowein says “Everybody who was and are still involved in this project can be proud of the success of the R8 LMS. The Audi R8 is a fascinating sports car. For me, personally the R8 LMS is currently the most beautiful race car in the world.”

Head of Audi Sport Romolo Liebchen contributes “You shouldn’t forget that we are only at the very beginning of our customer racing activities. The positive record of the R8 LMS is all the more gratifying… The V10 engine from the production R8 remains almost unchanged for racing purposes and has a very long service life as a consequence. This is exactly what customer sport needs because the running costs are kept low in the process.”

Due to its low-maintenance, the Audi R8 is ideal for drivers just getting into the sport. Racing an Audi also comes with some perks, including getting a racing licence.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Word on the street is that Audi has some pretty interesting test mules for the next-generation R8 running our in Germany. Reports have suggested that Audi is also testing an R8 with a 2.5 TFSI and a 3.0 TFSi with rear-wheel-drive and an S-tronic match.

“It’s all part of Audi’s experimentation in downsizing,” one source says.

Click here for more news on the Audi R8.

Whatever the case is under the hood, we’re pretty excited to see what Audi designers come up with for the Lamborghini Gallardo based supercar. A new image, courtesy of Fourtitdue, has popped up on the Internet and it apparently gives us a peak at what the front of the next R8 will look like.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Fourtitdue

Recalls really seem to be the buzz as of recent. So here’s another recall. Volkswagen is issuing one for 920 2011-2012 Audi R8 Spyder units. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a fuel leak may occur.

The cars in trouble were built between May 18, 2010 and June 21, 2011. Owners would be able to find out if it is their R8 by looking at the assembly date on the driver side doorjamb.

Word is that a fuel supply line may rub against a heat shield in the engine compartment. Fuel could then leak in the engine bay and could potentially cause a fire.

The recall is expected to start around August 22 where dealers will inspect the fuel line and replace it for free. Owners of the R8 can call Audi at 800-822-2834 or NHTSA’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 for more info.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: Kicking Tires

Some luxury carmakers provide a program and service that allows buyers to customize their cars very specifically for a premium price. Some of things that the program provides include custom colors and special and unique options. For instance, BMW has their BMW Individual program while Audi has their Audi Exclusive program. Now, for the first time buyers can customize their future R8 from the factory with custom colors using Audi’s Exclusive program.

Buyers can now choose from an array of special colors for the exterior, the side blades and nearly all parts of the interior. So that means, you can get nearly whatever combination you want. Black on maroon red with white stitching and silver side blades? Done.

Click here for more news on the Audi R8.

To show off what the Audi Exclusive program is capable of offering the R8, they released a collection of photos of just some examples of the almost infinite nnumber of color combinations that you can get.

Have a look at them after the jump.

Audi R8 Exclusive:

- By: Chris Chin

Source: Audi