New Audi R8 S tronics raise the tempo for 2013 model year

Revised R8 range incorporates faster S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission and new lighter and more powerful V10 plus model.

  • New look R8 V8 and V10 Coupé and Spyder models adopt S tronic twin-clutch transmission as part of comprehensive programme of 2013 Model Year revisions
  • Latest range headed by new lighter, quicker and even more focused 550PS V10 plus Coupé version
  • All-LED headlights and rear indicators with innovative sweeping function standard across the range – equipment upgrades for most models
  • OTR prices from £91,575 to £127,575 – ordering possible from next month, first deliveries in early 2013

The adrenaline-fuelling Audi R8 driving experience is about to be charged with even greater intensity by a new S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission delivering blink-of-an-eye gear shifts and improved sprinting ability. The ultra-rapid transmission is just one highlight of the 2013 Model Year R8 range, which also now features new design detailing and all-LED lighting across the board, equipment upgrades for most models and a new, even more powerful and focused version of the V10 Coupé – the 550PS V10 plus.

The totally new seven-speed S tronic transmission replaces the R tronic automated manual option in the latest R8 range, and is available as an alternative to the acclaimed six-speed manual gearbox with its open stainless steel gate, which continues to be offered for all versions in the UK. With a three-shaft layout, the S tronic transmission is less than 60 centimetres in length. Its two multi-plate clutches are positioned behind one another (a new feature), and serve two mutually independent sub-transmissions; gears are shifted directly as the clutches alternately open and close. As a result gear shifts take place within hundredths of a second and with virtually no interruption to tractive power.

The twin-clutch S tronic transmission can make its rapid fire shifts via the selector lever or the steering wheel paddles. It offers a sports mode that adjusts the shift pattern to extract the very best from the V8 and V10 engines, and a launch control function that manages engine speed and permits exactly the right degree of tyre slip for the quickest possible take-off when accelerating.

Quicker and cleaner

With the benefit of S tronic the hand built, naturally aspirated eight and ten cylinder FSI petrol engines are given even more opportunity to show their mettle. The integration of the new 7-speed S tronic transmission has not only reduced CO2 emissions by up to 22 grams/km, but in V8 and V10 Coupé and V10 Spyder versions it has also improved the acceleration time from rest to 62mph by three-tenths of a second compared with R tronic-equipped equivalents. Both engines are compact, comparatively lightweight and feature motorsport-derived dry-sump lubrication which allows for low positioning and therefore a lower centre of gravity for optimum handling.

The 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine produces 430PS at 7,900 rpm, and peak torque of 430 Nm between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm. The unit powers the R8 Coupé with S tronic transmission from rest to 62mph in 4.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 186mph (with manual transmission: 4.6 seconds and 187mph). The R8 V8 Spyder in manual and S tronic forms takes care of the sprint in 4.5 and 4.8 seconds respectively, and in both cases can reach a top speed of 186mph. According to the combined cycle test the V8 Coupé with new S tronic transmission can return up to 22.8mpg.

The V10 engine provides 530 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, and peak power of 525PS available at 8,000 rpm. With S tronic transmission the V10 Coupé can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 195mph. With manual transmission the values are 3.9 seconds and 196mph. The R8 V10 Spyder with S tronic completes the standard sprint in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 193mph (with manual transmission: 4.1 seconds and 194mph). Combined economy in the V10 Coupé with S tronic stands at 21.6mpg.

550PS R8 V10 plus

The new flagship of the range is the Audi R8 V10 plus. Developing 550PS and maximum torque of 540 Nm at 6,500 rpm, this coupé-only version catapults from rest to 62mph in 3.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 197mph when linked to S tronic transmission; Combined fuel economy is 21.9mpg. With manual transmission, the acceleration time lengthens slightly to 3.8 seconds, top speed also increases to 198mph and combined fuel economy tops out at 19.0mpg.

The chassis of the high-performance sports car employs technologies derived from motorsport. Double wishbones forged from aluminium guide all four wheels, and in the R8 V10 plus the springs, shock absorbers and front suspension geometry have been specially tuned and adapted. Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping is standard for the R8 V10 and optional for the V8 variants; it offers a normal mode and a sports mode. The power steering delivers super-sensitive feedback, with ultra-direct gear ratios.

In the UK, V8 versions of the 2013 Model Year R8 will feature 19-inch five-arm double-spoke wheels with 235/35 tyres at the front and 295/30 tyres at the rear. ‘Standard’ V10 models will be equipped with 19-inch ten-spoke Y design wheels with tyres of the same specification. The R8 V10 plus will differentiate itself further through an exclusive 19-inch five-arm double-spoke wheel design. Optional wheels with a high gloss or titanium look will also be available, with an exclusive black gloss finish offered for the V10 plus.

Standard ceramic discs for V10 plus

The steel brake discs of the high-performance sports car are internally ventilated, perforated and joined to the aluminium disc bowls by pins. The new "Wave" design of the discs, with their wave-like exterior contour, lowers the weight overall by about two kilograms compared with round discs of the same dimensions. The aluminium brake callipers operate at the front wheels with eight pistons each, and at the rear wheels with four pistons each. Carbon fibre ceramic brake discs with remarkable stopping power, exceptional resistance to fade and a long service life are standard for the V10 plus and optional for other models. The electronic stabilization control system ESC offers a sports mode and can also be fully deactivated.

The 2013 Model Year R8 has evolved more subtly, but no less significantly, in terms of styling. Its single-frame grille is a new design with bevelled upper corners and horizontal chrome inserts adorning the struts on the V10 variants. The bumper is also new, with the air inlets bearing three crossbars each, and in the new V10 plus coupe it incorporates a weight-saving Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) front splitter.

The housings of the outside mirrors and the lateral air inlets, known as ‘side blades’, are also made from CFRP in the new R8 V10 plus. In all the ten-cylinder variants the side blades extend outwards further than in the V8 models and have special edging. The vent louvres next to the rear window have an aluminium look on the R8 V10 Coupé, and are finished in matt black in the R8 V8 Coupé and R8 V10 plus. The mighty engine that is visible through that rear window in the R8 V10 plus is trimmed in CFRP and illuminated by LEDs – these features are also available at extra cost for all other models.

Range-wide all-LED headlights

All-LED headlights are now standard on all variants of the Audi R8, and are complemented by new strip-shaped daytime running lights that form a ‘clasp’ around the lens. The light-emitting diodes for the high and low beam headlights have been placed above and below the daytime running lights, which are specially actuated to serve as indicators. Static cornering lights are also integrated into the headlights.

LED lights also dominate the rear of the Audi R8. The clusters include innovative new indicators which appear to perform a ‘sweeping’ movement from the inside outwards, making them more noticeable than even the latest LED indicator systems. The sweep is achieved by a horizontal row of LEDs that are illuminated in successive blocks. The latest R8 is also distinguishable from its predecessor by way of its new badge with signature Audi Sport red diamond, and by its repositioned diffusor, which in the V10 plus Coupé is made from CFRP. In all engine versions the exhaust system terminates in two round, glossy tailpipe trim sections, painted black on the R8 V10 plus.

The 2013 Model Year R8 will be available in the two solid colours Ibis White and Brilliant Red, and with four metallic and five pearl effect / crystal effect options. An additional matt effect colour is available exclusively for the R8 V10 plus. The side blades on the Coupé are offered in a choice of eight colours, and the Spyder’s soft top can be finished in either black, red or brown.

The R8 embodies Audi's wealth of expertise in ultra-lightweight design. The aluminium Coupé body with the Audi Space Frame (ASF) weighs just 210 kg, and the Spyder body 216 kg. The unladen R8 V8 Coupé with manual transmission weighs in at just 1,560 kg, while the open-top sports car registers 1,660 kg. The R8 V10 plus, available only as a coupé, adds just 10 kg to the weight of the V8 Coupé, taking it to 1,570 kg. Its additional CFRP body components combine with adjustable bucket seats with glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) chassis, reduced insulating materials, special light alloy wheels and chassis components such as the standard ceramic brakes to keep weight to a minimum.

On the Audi R8 Spyder the lid on the soft top compartment and the side parts are also CFRP. The elegant, lightweight fabric top, with its largely aluminium and magnesium linkage, perfectly complements the R8’s inherent ultra-lightweight design. The top opens and closes electrohydraulically in 19 seconds, and during driving at up to 31mph. The heated window in the bulkhead between the passenger and engine compartments stands apart from the soft top; the window can be retracted and extended by a switch and also serves as a wind deflector. If sensors detect a potential rollover situation, two strong, spring-tensioned sections are ejected upwards from the seats.

Further refined interior

Inside the 2013 Model Year R8, the new R8 badge appears on the gearshift or selector lever, in the door sill trims, in the instrument cluster and in the start screen of the on-board monitor. In the R8 V10 plus it also appears on the flattened rim of the leather-covered multifunction sports steering wheel. The instrument cluster itself has been reworked, the gear shift paddles have been further improved and new chrome inserts have been added in several areas. The centre console, the surround for the radio/navigation system and the handbrake lever are also now covered with delicately stitched leather.

Standard equipment levels have also been boosted for the 2013 Model Year R8, particularly where V8 Coupé and Spyder models are concerned. As well as all-LED headlights and new design 19-inch alloy wheels, they gain the Audi Music Interface (iPod connection), satellite navigation, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation and heating for their Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered sports seats. To bring them into line with the V10 Spyder, V10 Coupe models upgrade to an extended Fine Nappa Leather package which takes in elements such as the dashboard and side panels.

At the top of the range, the most driver-focused R8 V10 plus Coupe models feature numerous weight-saving Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) elements externally, in areas such as the door mirrors, side blades, front splitter and diffusor, plus lighter and even more effective carbon fibre ceramic brakes. Their glass fibre-reinforced buckets seats weigh less than their counterparts in the standard V10 versions. Exclusive 19-inch five-arm Y design double spoke alloy wheels also mark them out externally.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Audi Design Foundation

Empowering designers to create positive change

The Audi Design Foundation was established as an independent charity by Audi UK in 1997 with the remit of using design to make a difference. Since its inception the charity has given more than £1million to support this ethos.

In March 2010 the Audi Design Foundation completed its final initiative, Sustain our Nation. This national competition challenged university design students to work with their local community to develop sustainable enterprises. The winning team from Glasgow School of Art, GetGo Glasgow, won £20,000 to help the Wyndford estate regain its community focus.

The Audi Design Foundation has encouraged and empowered designers to come up with ideas that create a positive change in people's lives. We sincerely hope that the excellent work of the Foundation has created a lasting legacy for the UK's design movement.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

19 x 9J '5-arm design' alloy wheel

Application

 

TT (2006 onwards)

 

Information

 

Excludes tyres. Tyre size required: 255/35 R19. Price shown is for single wheel only. Not suitable for use with snow chains.

 

Description

 

Upgrade your vehicle with this cast aluminium wheel in 5-arm turbo design. Centre cap branded with the Audi rings.

 

Part number

 

8J0071499W90

 

Price

 

£330.00 + fitting

 

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Audi City: The Metropolis Cyberstore Opens Its Doors

  • First digital Audi showroom opens in the centre of London
  • Sales chief Schwarzenbauer: “Visitors can expect a previously unheard-of level of customer service.”
  • More than 20 locations in major international cities by 2015

Ingolstadt/London, 16 July 2012 - Audi is preparing automotive retail for the future and complementing its dealer network with a new format --- Audi City. The first location opens today in London close to Piccadilly Circus. The brand’s entire model line-up is presented fully digitally in a compact space. The efficient use of space facilitated by this approach allows the four rings to be present in the heart of major international cities. Over the next few years, Audi will secure more of these attractive locations, opening more than 20 stores worldwide by 2015. In future, Audi City will also play a crucial role in the marketing of new mobility services and electric-drive Audi models.

“Audi City combines the best of two worlds – digital product presentation and personal contact with the dealer,” says Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales at AUDI AG. “This new retail format brings us even closer to our customers – geographically, of course, but first and foremost in terms of the quality of our relationship. Audi City offers new freedom for tailor-made services and an even more individual contact with the customer.”

Thanks to groundbreaking media technology, the vehicle manufacturer now has the ability not only to present its growing model line-up – including all colours, equipment options and functions – in its entirety, but also to offer customers the chance to experience the sheer breadth of the range in full. Visitors can digitally select their vehicle from several hundred million possible configurations and experience it in realistic 1:1 scale on screens that almost fill the entire space. Moreover, technical details such as the drivetrain, bodyshell or LED light technology can be presented individually in order to make innovations understandable on an intuitive level.

With Audi City, the premium manufacturer is responding to customers’ changing needs. “People are placing greater emphasis than ever before on a direct and personal bond of trust with their vehicle brand – especially in respect of the increasing variety of products and available information,” explains Schwarzenbauer. “Thus, with Audi City, we are creating a one-stop-shop for experiencing our brand. It is right in the midst of our customers’ lives, yet seamlessly connected to the online range offered by the four rings.”

This is particularly assured by the Customer Relationship Manager, who will be deployed in future at Audi City locations. This individual will be the customer’s central and consistent point of contact for all needs – from the first consultation to after-sales and ongoing services. Plus, every Audi City is also connected to an Audi dealership that provides the entire spectrum of AUDI AG services as a single-point centre of competence.

With this highly personalized customer dialogue and the provision of individual services, Audi City represents a substantial expansion of the retail experience. In support of this, AUDI AG offers employee training targeted specifically at these urban stores and also supports the dealer in their selection and further training. Furthermore, employees increasingly have a more broad-based educational background – as IT experts, for instance, who are qualified to explain the digital world of Audi City.

Their central urban location makes each Audi City more than simply an additional retail outlet. Audi City will also evolve into a meeting place for fans of the brand, where they can make contact with the world of the four rings whenever they want. The stores will also be used as a dialogue forum for issues outside of core automotive business. For example, following close of daily business, they will play host to readings, round-table discussions and exhibitions on issues such as urban development and mobility or on matters relating to art, culture and design.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Added intensity for new 360PS Audi TT RS plus

New TT RS plus Coupe and Roadster models combine even more power and torque with an enhanced specification

 

 

    • TT RS plus Coupe and Roadster join UK range in addition to existing TT RS models

    • Available with manual or S tronic twin-clutch transmissions priced from £48,945 OTR to £52,265 OTR (£3,085 premium over TT RS)

    • Ordering possible from early May, first UK deliveries in the summer

    • Power boosted by 20PS to 360PS, torque up by 15Nm to 465Nm

    • Top speed increased from 155mph to 174mph, Coupe 0-62mph down to 4.1 seconds with S tronic transmission (from 4.3), combined MPG 33.2

    • AAdditional equipment, including sports exhaust system

 

 

Audi has just loosened the leash on the already extreme TT RS to create the new TT RS plus, an even more focused version of the high performance sports car with a new, autobahn-devouring 174mph top speed, increases in power and torque to 360PS and 465Nm and an equipment upgrade. The new RS plus duo joins the UK range in addition to the existing ‘standard’ TT RS models, and will be available to order from early May priced from £48,945 OTR – first deliveries are expected in the summer.

The step up from TT RS to TT RS plus involves tuning the 2.5-litre, five-cylinder TFSI petrol engine to extract an additional 20PS and 15Nm of torque compared with the ‘standard’ car. The resulting 360PS and 465Nm can be channelled to the quattro all-wheel-drive system through either a six-speed manual gearbox or the seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission.

With the latter installed, the TT RS plus Coupe catapults from rest to 62mph in just 4.1 seconds (manual version 4.3 seconds) to the tune of an addictively full-bodied five-cylinder growl, closely followed by the Roadster, which needs 4.2 seconds (manual version 4.4 seconds). Top speed is limited to 174mph in all cases.

Despite these suitably headline-grabbing figures the RS plus models also stack up in economy terms, the Coupé achieving a combined economy test figure of 33.2mpg and the Roadster 32.8mpg in the same test.

These impressive figures are due in no small part to the extremely lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) bodies made of aluminium at the front and sheet steel at the rear. The TT RS plus Coupé with manual transmission weighs just 1,450kg.

The two muscular bodies sit on 19-inch five-arm “Rotor” design titanium-look alloy wheels which replace the 18-inch five double spoke examples fitted to the standard car. The single frame radiator grille with its matt aluminium surround and polished anthracite diamond-pattern mesh also sets the Audi TT RS plus apart visually, as do the carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) door mirror housings and black oval tailpipe trims. These indicate that the TT RS plus is fitted as standard with the sports exhaust system, an option in the standard car which further intensifies the already bass-heavy exhaust note.

Under the bonnet a carbon design package also gives the engine compartment of the TT RS plus a more exclusive look, and in its suitably sporting cabin a TT RS plus logo on the gear knob serves as a subtle reminder that this particular RS has even more to offer.

In keeping with its name, the ultimate TT also adds more cabin equipment, including satellite navigation, Bluetooth phone preparation and Audi Music Interface iPod connection, all of which form part of the normally optional Technology Package.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

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