Simply stunning

The new Audi R8 Spyder has emerged as one of the stars of the New York International Auto Show. A stunning open-top interpretation of the new R8 shape, the new Spyder boasts outstanding performance to match its looks, its normally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine propelling it from standstill to 100km/h in a mere 3.6 seconds – just 0.4 of a second behind its Coupe stablemate – on its way to a top speed of 318km/h.

Weighing just 1,612kg, the Spyder is based around the newest incarnation of the Audi Space Frame (ASF) made from a combination of aluminium and carbon fibre for maximum strength – a 50 percent increase in torsional rigidity over the previous model.

This increased strength more than makes up for for the absence of a fixed roof as part of the vehicle’s structure and allows for the cloth roof can be opened or closed via the electro-hydraulic drive system in just 20 seconds and while the Spyder is travelling at speeds of up to 50km/h.

Of course if conditions permit, driving with the roof down and stored is the optimum way to enjoy the new Audi Spyder and the sonorous V10 engine. Producing 397kW of power and 540Nm of torque at 6,500rpm, the race-bred engine note is as thrilling as the car’s styling and while it is at its best under load and being pushed, ever around town, the sound of the Spyder is a highlight.

Efficiency has also been designed into the Spyder as with all new Audi models, a range of efficiency technologies increasing fuel efficiency by 10 percent over the previous model, but at no cost to performance.

The V10 engine is married to a seven-speed S ironic transmission with power going down to al four wheels by the newest version of Audi quattro permanent all-wheel drive. This new quattro system allows the distribution of power according to the situation and conditions – up to 100 percent to the front or rear wheels if required. The Spyder also offers adjustable driving dynamics via the Audi drive select, with – with dry, wet and snow modes available in addition to the range of dynamic and more comfort oriented programs.

The interior of the Spyder is a work of art, the driver and passenger ensconced in sports seats, surrounded by the very latest in automotive technology and infotainment systems. For the driver, all systems and controls are within easy reach, important functions controlled from the steering wheel itself, while the Audi virtual cockpit clearly displays all important information.

Belt microphones are standard fitment allowing for the use of voice commands while the The Bang & Olufsen Sound System is another highlight, Audi integrating two head restraint loudspeakers into each seat, for an excellent audio experience even when driving with the roof open. 

The Audi smartphone interface, is a new technology that makes its entrance in the

R8 Spyder. This makes it possible to display selected content from the smartphone directly in the Audi virtual cockpit. From the middle of this year, this option will also be available for the R8 Coupé. Audi phone box can also be supplied. It connects mobile phones to the car aerial and charges them inductively. Audi connect gets the R8 Spyder on the Internet via LTE and provides a wide range of services – from online media streaming to real-time traffic information.

Over and above the extensive standard equipment, customers have almost unlimited scope to tailor both the interior and exterior to their individual preferences, with add-on body components such as the front spoiler, the diffuser and the new sideblades are also available in carbon. LED headlights with newly developed laser technology maximise visibility and range for the driver, bringing increased safety at night. 

Yet even with this raft of leading-edge technology underpinning the new R8 Spyder, its undeniable raw appeal lies in its twin attractions of visual and aural gratification. Roof down and V10 engine at full noise – nothing comes close.