Audi reveals refreshed 2013 R8 lineup

Gallery:
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2013-...photo-5172104/

It's hard to believe that Audi launched the R8 a full seven years ago. Since that time, the automaker has kept the two-seat sports car fresh with several changes including the addition of the roofless Spyder, an optional V10 and the sportier GT model, but now Audi has determined that it's finally time for the model's first full-on refresh. Today, Audi revealed the revamped 2013 R8 lineup, highlighted by subtle styling changes, a seven-speed S-tronic transmission (no more dreadful R-tronic!) and a new flagship V10 Plus model.

It takes a keen eye to pick out the design changes to the new R8, the most prominent being the redesigned LED headlights and taillights that come standard on all models. Audi has also revised the front bumper and grille, and out back, there's a larger diffuser and new circular tailpipes.

Perhaps the biggest change to the R8 for 2013 is the addition of the new seven-speed S-tronic transmission that utilizes two mult-plate clutches. Each clutch engages with two independent sub-transmissions and alternately select gears, resulting in smoother shifts that take mere hundredths of as second. Thankfully, a six-speed manual is still offered, although Audi claims that the car equipped with the S-tronic is actually faster to 60 miles per hour by three-tenths of a second in all models.

A new R8 V10 Plus arrives at the flagship model, featuring the same carbon fiber reinforced plastic used on the R8 GT. The front splitter, mirrors, side blades, rear diffuser and lining for the engine compartment are all constructed of the lightweight material. The 5.2-liter V10 has also been slightly improved compared to the standard V10 model, producing 550 horsepower and 398 pound-feet torque.

European models will start rolling off the line at the end of this year, and while Audi has not mentioned U.S. availability or pricing, we expect our version of the R8 to follow very shortly thereafter.


http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/a...ineup-w-video/

 

So the christmas tree front LED lights are gone, but at the same time this new front end looks more bland and less aggressive than the old one.

 

Nice to see the 6-speed manual return, but this will be the last time. The next generation won't offer one. S-Tronic is a welcome addition

 

Likely to be desired model then years down the road. That or people will switch to the competition instead .

 

That looks magnificent!!!

 

Rear turn signals are hot!

 

I like the way they incorporate the diamond cross stitch pattern in the seats, door panels, and headliner in this last gallery shot.

 

beautiful car.

I hope this design continues for a loooooooooong time (a la 911)

 

Audi did a great job, very nice improvements, and they kept some old things that people like, such as the parking brake and the manual option. I also love that new blue color !

 

Seriously nice update. The jewelry LED's up front were cheesy and the old headlights looked like they were glued onto a big black eye. Much cleaner and better integration now. Also love the new taillight blinkers, but the Mustang has done it for years.
This car rocks.

 

really? you're comparing these rear turn signals to the Mustang?!?!

LOL....don't forget the Cougar had them in the 60s!!!!

 

I'll take the V10 Plus Spyder, with the S-tronic transmission, please.

Oh...black with tan interior, if you don't mind.

 

Nice updates. I'm sure that current R8 owners are pleased

 

LOL! Yes.... at least the concept of multiple lights flashing in a sequence.

 

just messin with ya man...

I wonder what the warning flashers look like LOL.