Audi has announced launch details for its 2017 R8, significantly increasing the base price as the entry-level V8 variant drops from the lineup.
Buyers now must pay at least $164,150 (including $1,250 freight) for Audi’s redesigned supercar, representing an increase of $47,000 over the discontinued V8 package.
Comparing just MSRPs for the standard V10 edition, the 2017 model costs $9,000 more than the outgoing edition. The V10 ‘plus’ now fetches $191,150, up more than $16,000 from the first generation.
Introduced early last year in Geneva, the revamped R8 is powered by a Lamborghini-derived 5.2-liter FSI V10 with 540 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the ‘plus’ trim brings a more aggressive tune, good for 610 ponies and 413 lb-ft of twist. The variants are claimed to reach 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds and 3.2 seconds, respectively, with top speeds ranging from 200 to 205 mph.
The second-generation R8 brings a modestly evolved exterior styling, centered around a more aggressive front fascia with angular headlights and a wider Singleframe grille.
Dropping the cheaper V8 package puts the R8 into the same price bracket occupied by the McLaren 570S ($184,900), Ferrari California T ($198,973), Porsche 911 Turbo S ($182,700), Aston Martin V12 Vantage S and even the Lamborghini Huracán LP 580-2 (under $200,000, TBD).
Live images by Ronan Glon.
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