Earlier this quarter, Audi unveiled the 2019 R8 amid reports that the iconic supercar will be discontinued as early 2020. The upcoming iteration of the second-gen R8 features facelifted versions of both the coupe and spyder, which are expected to go on sale in Europe early next year.
When it comes to aesthetics, ‘facelift’ accurately depicts the extent of the changes, with the new models benefiting from a redesigned, more aggressive front bumper. The new bumper also incorporates a wider grill, new front splitter and more menacing air inlets.
Significant styling changes elsewhere are forgone, although Audi has introduced new optional exterior packages which add “various highlights to the front splitter, the side trims and the diffuser” for a more bespoke touch. Redesigned 20” ultralight milled wheels are available as an option and two new paint colors are also on offer – Kemora Gray and Ascari Blue.
In the cabin, new upholstery options have extended the catalogue and include the likes of “pastel silver with rock gray contrasting stitching, palomino brown with steel gray stitching and black with utopia blue stitching.” The top of the line R8 V10 Performance will also be available with specially designed leather/alcantara upholstery and unique carbon fiber trim pieces.
The refreshed Audi R8 will also feature performance upgrades for both its engine options, with the V10 now producing 562-horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque – an increase of 29-horsepower and 7 lb-ft of torque over the 2018 engine, respectively. The V10 will do 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 324 km/h.
The V10 Performance engine receives more modest upgrades, now producing 611-horsepower and 427 lb-ft of torque – an increase of 9-horsepower and 14 lb-ft of torque over the 2018 engine, respectively. The V10 Plus will do 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds with a top speed of 331 km/h.
With a renewed focus on driving dynamics, Audi has reworked the suspension to provide “even more stability and precision”. The reprogrammed Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) system improves braking distances while the standard power steering and optional dynamic steering systems have also been improved to enhance driver feedback and response.
All the new 2019 Audi R8 models remain naturally aspirated and all-wheel-drive, and there is no word yet on whether Audi will release a ‘RWS’ version of the refreshed car. Pricing has not yet been officially revealed for either the Euro or US-spec R8, with this information likely to be available closer to the release date.
Audi R8 2019 Image Gallery
