Most people in the know already knew this car was coming. It’s funny to think about it, but the fabulous 4.2-liter V8 engine in Audi’s awesome R8 was just a stop-gap powerplant. In fact, those in the know can tell you that this supercar was originally intended to hold a V10 engine, not a high-revving V8. The V8 was just a temporary solution while they readied a firecracker.
Finally the boys at Germany see fit to unleash their potent R8 in V10 flavor. Simply called the R8 5.2 FSI Quattro (well not that simple) Audi’s latest creation is nothing short of a masterpiece. Audi’s R8 was already a stunning piece and the styling team has merely reinforced this notion.  Still, only subtle touches differentiate it from it’s eight-cylinder brother. Audi wants to make sure the original buyers of the R8 aren’t too peeved, especially since some are still waiting for their toys to be delivered given the usual 4-6 month waiting period.

The real news here though is the engine, and what an engine it is! A 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 utilizing direct injection technology and boasting a phenomenal 512hp and 391ft-lbs of torque, this new powerplant is nothing short of a powerhouse. Equipped with Quattro AWD, and the latest version of the twin-clutch R-Tronic automatic transmission, the new R8 5.2 FSI Quattro will accelerate from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of around 196 mph.

No further information has been given out but, while no date has been set for a U.S. launch, Germans can expect to be able to purchase their V10 R8’s in spring of next year with a price tag of around $182,000. That makes this the most expensive and fastest road-going Audi of all time. Fitting, as it just might also be the sexiest Audi ever too.

Above: Finally, this Audi gets the engine it was born to have…. 

Source: Road And Track

Photo: Audi AG