‘Most capable and focused’ Audi R8 supercar revealed

Fans of the Audi R8 have a new machine to get excited about, with an ultra-limited-edition described as ‘the most capable and focused’ version of the supercar heading for sale.

This is the Audi Sport Performance Parts R8 Edition, and as the lengthy name suggests, it takes advantage of the full catalogue of parts available from the German firm’s performance arm.

Based on the R8 V10 Plus, this machine gains a host of aerodynamic enhancements crafted from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic – most eye-catchingly the large rear wing, accompanied by a diffuser at the back of the car. Canards and a splitter on the front bumper are also made from the material, along with larger air intakes for improved airflow.

The result is an overall increase in downforce, with this R8 capable of producing 250kg of downforce at 205mph – 100kg more than the standard car.

Although power isn’t boosted – meaning the 5.2-litre V10 still produces 602bhp and 560Nm of torque – a number of upgrades have been introduced alongside the aerodynamic package for better handling.

Lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels reduce unsprung mass by 8kg and are housed in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. Adjustable coilover suspension features too, while the carbon ceramic brakes on both axles have been upgraded with enhanced brake pads and titanium backing plates.

Visual tweaks make the Audi Sport Performance Parts R8 Edition stand out from the regular car as well. One body colour is available – Misano Red – while Audi Sport badging on the side skirts and red highlights on the diffuser set it apart.

Inside, an Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel features with a red centre marker, while otherwise optional equipment such as a rear-view camera and Audi sports exhaust come as standard here.

Want one? Better act pretty quickly – just 44 examples of the Audi Sport Performance Parts R8 Edition are slated for production, with five of them heading to the UK in right-hand drive. Priced at £176,560, each example will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, with Audi dealers across the UK now taking inquiries — although no word yet on deliveries.