2011 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 Preview

Model Lineup
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is the new flagship of the lineup, sharing the showroom with the V-8 and V-10 models of the R8 coupe. As the headline model, the standard equipment level of the convertible R8 is generous enough to please even the most discerning buyer. Standard features include Audi’s latest MMI infotainment/navigation system, with its upgraded 6.5-inch LED monitor and anti-theft alarm. While it is optional on the R8 coupe, the Spyder also enjoys a standard 465-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system with 12 speakers, exclusively designed for the interior of the open-air Audi. The upgraded stereo even includes a microphone-based vehicle noise compensating system to adjust audio levels to the ambient noise.

According to Audi, the standard Nappa leather in the drop-top R8 Spyder (optional in the coupe) has been pigmented with special colors which are designed to reflect the infrared component of sunlight—reportedly keeping the seats up to 68 degrees cooler.

Hardware
While the closed-roof R8 coupe is offered with a choice between a 4.2-liter V-8 and a 5.2-liter V-10 engine, the all-new R8 Spyder is only fitted with the Lamborghini-sourced 10-cylinder powerplant. The aluminum engine is rated at 525 horsepower with 390 lb.-ft. of torque, and power is sent through a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed automatic with “R tronic” sport programming and shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel. All R8 Spyder models feature Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, tuned for a rearward bias for better handling and feedback to the driver, the manufacturer says. Audi claims the R8 Spyder will sprint to 62 mph in just 4.1 seconds towards a top speed of 194 mph.

With a short wheelbase to enhance agility, the Audi R8 Spyder has a fully independent suspension with double triangular wishbones at all four corners of the vehicle. Much of the suspension hardware is aluminum, to save weight. Audi’s magnetic ride technology—shock absorbers that instantaneously adapt to road and driving conditions—is standard, as are 19-inch, 10-spoke wheels. The standard brake package includes 8-piston calipers in the front, and 4-piston calipers at the rear. A carbon fiber-ceramic brake package is optional.