New Audi R8 V10 Performance RWD revealed with upgraded 562bhp V10 engine
Audi’s simplified the R8 range, upgrading the RWD model to 562bhp in both coupe and Spyder forms
The Audi R8 has just been given a gentle update for the 2022 model year, consolidating the range into just two models from the previous three, and upgrading the entry-level RWD with more power and a subte chassis upgrade.
The new base-level R8 is now called the V10 Performance RWD, and comes with a 29bhp boost to its 5.2-litre V10 engine resulting in a 562bhp peak power figure, with torque marginally up at 405lb ft (+7lb ft). These higher figures don’t improve the R8’s 0-62mph time which is as before at 3.7sec, but the top speed has jumped from 199mph to 204mph.
Without front driveshafts, the RWD weighs-in at a kerb weight of 1590kg in coupe and 1695kg in Spyder forms, making it 110kg heavier than an equivalent Porsche 911 Carrera, although the Porsche’s far smaller engine accounts for a lot of the difference.
Audi has supplemented these changes to the RWD’s chassis with the option of the dynamic steering system from higher spec Quattro models, as well as giving the traction control system a new Sport driving mode that allows a certain degree of slip to be held before reining things in if the angles gets a bit much.
The RWD’s ‘waved’ steel brake discs and six-piston calipers remain as before, so too the 19-inch twin-spoke wheel design and body-coloured side intake covers, but UK buyers will also have the option of a second Edition specification, building on the standard equipment with 20-inch wheels, Nappa leather seats, carbonfibre sideblades and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
This model joins the existing V10 Performance Carbon Edition, which remains at the top of the range which retains its 612bhp engine variant and 3.1sec 0-62mph time.
Both models are available to order now, with prices for the new RWD model starting at £126,885 for the coupe and £135,575 for the Spyder. These prices represent a near-£10,000 increase on the previous RWD model, but see the new car take the place of the previous V10 Quattro model in the range, albeit with two driven wheels.
