Audi unveils R8 facelift

Audi has taken the wraps off its facelifted R8 ahead of its public debut at the Paris motor show in September.

The facelifted car incorporates new features on the inside and out. Tweaks to the car's exteriors include a redesigned bumper and new LED headlights. The R8's rear also features a new bumper and light cluster design, a new ‘R8’ logo, a restyled rear diffuser and rounded single exhaust pipes in each corner.

The engine options remain unchanged. The facelifted R8 will come with the previous model’s entry-level 424bhp 4.2-litre V8 and the 518bhp 5.2-litre V10, but Audi has replaced the current model’s six-speed automated manual R-tronic gearbox with a new seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission.

Audi claims the new gearbox decreases CO2 emissions by 22g/km, while also slashing 0-100kph sprint times by 0.3sec; the entry-level car now dispatches 0-100kph in 4.3 seconds, with the V10 version hitting the mark in 3.6 seconds.

See the detailed Audi R8 photo gallery here

Joining the R8 line-up is a more focused V10 Plus model, which will be offered in coupé guise only. Audi has increased the V10’s power by 24bhp to 542bhp, which reduces the 0-100kph time to 3.5 seconds as well as extending the top-speed to 317kph.

To reduce the V10’s weight, the Plus edition features lightweight alloy wheels, reduced insulation and carbon fibre touches to the exterior. The range-topper’s suspension is also revised to include tuned springs and shock absorbers.

Styling differences between the Plus and standard V10 include a carbon fibre front splitter, with the same material used on the mirror housings and air vents. The rear diffuser is also larger than the standard car’s, and the exhaust pipes are finished in black. Lightweight bucket seats also feature in the R8 Plus model’s interior.