The facelifted Audi R8 was unveiled last fall, but
it’s finally arriving in the U.S. at the New York Auto Show. Set to go on sale this summer,
the 2020 R8 has a more aggressive front fascia which features a honeycomb mesh
grille, a new spoiler and three hood slits that pay tribute to the Ur-quattro.
The supercar has also been equipped with darker headlights, restyled side
skirts, an updated rear bumper and a new diffuser.
The cabin largely carries over, but there are two
new interior colors called Pastel Silver and Palomino Brown. While the updates
are minor, the model comes nicely equipped with a digital instrument cluster, a
wireless smartphone charger and a 13-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Buyers will also find GPS navigation and LED interior lighting.
Power is provided by an upgraded 5.2-liter V10
engine that produces 562 hp and 550 Nm of torque.
It is connected to a seven-speed S tronic transmission and a standard quattro
all-wheel drive system. It enables the coupe to accelerate from 0-96
km/h in 3.4 seconds before hitting a top speed of 323 km/h.
Interestingly, Audi of America says the R8 V10
performance maintains its former rating of 602 hp and 559 Nm of torque. This is strange as the European model got a minor
boost to 611 hp and 580 Nm of torque. We asked
Audi for a clarification and we’ll update this post when / if we hear back.
Assuming the figure is correct, the R8 V10
performance coupe can accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 3.2 seconds and
onto a top speed of 330 km/h. The roadster is a tad slower as the
dash to 96 km/h takes 3.3 seconds and the top speed is 328
km/h.
Pricing starts at US$ 169,900 for the R8 V10 Coupe and US$ 182,100 for the Spyder. Likewise, the performance variants retail for US$ 195,900
and US$ 208,100.
