Next-generation Audi R8 spied – set for 2015 release

With BMW in its final stages of putting the revolutionary i8 into production and Mercedes starting to tinker with a SLS replacement, it’s only a matter of time Audi lets loose the next-generation R8.

The playground is of course none other than the notorious Nürburgring circuit in Germany.

Draped in heavy camouflage, the new Audi R8 sports a lower bonnet with a more prominent grille, edgier headlights and enlarged side air intakes. At the back, new design features include the wider rear fenders, sideblades, deeper diffuser and an active rear spoiler.

The new R8 interior is expected to carry similar design cues as the recently launched Audi TT, with a large LCD screen replacing the conventional instruments behind the steering wheel.

The lightweight carbon fibre and aluminium body structure found in the new Lamborghini Huracan is expected to be adopted by parent company for the new R8.

The current 4.2-litre V8 will be optimised for the new supercar to develop over 316 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. Also available will be a revised 5.2-litre V10 engine churning out around 440 kW and over 530 Nm.

Audi’s second generation R8 is expected to debut in the first half of 2015.