New Audi R8 to get Geneva debut

Audi has released a preview image for the new R8. This will be the second-generation of the supercar, and from what’s seen in the image, it will get laser headlights as an option. The new R8 is due to make its global debut at the Geneva motor show in March.

The new R8 will get a heavily redesigned interior, which will most likely feature Audi's new all-digital dash, as seen on the new TT. Development of the second-generation Audi R8 has also been undertaken at the Nürburgring ahead of the car's launch.

While the new R8 is expected to keep the same basic dimensions as its predecessor, visual upgrades include new front air intakes, while a smaller front grille has also been seen, as well as new headlight clusters. The new R8 will come with LED headlights as standard, but laser lights will be available as an option. Audi first showcased the technology on last year's R8 LMX. At the rear, the profile of the new R8 appears wider than the current car, and sports new exhausts plus a large rear diffuser.While Audi bosses say that the new R8 will follow the “same general layout” as the Lamborghini Huracán, the Audi car includes wider tracks and a longer wheelbase.

Technology carried over from the Huracán includes its innovative rear firewall, as well as its central tunnel made from a single carbonfibre moulding, which weighs as little as 50kg. Following the precedent set by the first R8, the majority of the new car's components will be made from aluminium to save weight. The same structure will also be used for the upcoming R8 e-tron.

Audi's existing V8 and V10 engines will power the new R8, with the latter unit closely related to the 5.2-litre engine found in the Huracán. That engine puts out 602bhp in the Huracán. Like the new Lamborghini, the R8 will most likely be offered in all-wheel-drive form only, and will be offered with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto gearbox.

The new R8 could eventually, also get the option of smaller-capacity turbocharged engines. Audi's technical boss Ulrich Hackengerg, has admitted that the R8 “will need a turbocharged engine” at some point, saying, “In some countries, you need to reduce the capacity of engines also, and we need to find solutions for those markets. So we're looking at smaller engines, yes”.