The Audi R8 has been one of those landmark vehicles that will go down in history. Not only because it represents a brand's resurgence but also because it is simply just a great product all around.
But, that being said, it still had a weakness. Having had the chance to pilot a couple the one big problem pre-refresh was its transmission — both vehicles were auto-manuals. The problem is it just wasn't all that great unless you really knew how to perfectly work it.
Herky jerky would be the best way to describe it.
For 2014 though Audi has slotted in a few changes, the biggest being a new transmission. This not only is said to make things smoother but also drop its zero to 60 time, significantly.
Audi's press release follows:
The new 2014 Audi R8 is officially on sale as of April 11th, 2013
2014 Audi R8 model line pricing released; Tony Stark back in Audi R8 for Iron Man 3 premiere on May 3rd, 2013
Offering uncompromised performance and unmistakable design, the new 2014 Audi R8 model represents the pinnacle of Audi performance with the top up or down. The R8 has established itself as an icon in the short time since its introduction in 2008. The new 2014 Audi R8 is more dynamic and powerful than ever and is officially on sale as of April 11th, 2013.
The new Audi R8 has been further optimized thanks to numerous improvements, including an available new seven-speed S tronic transmission that improves the 0-60 mph time by 0.3 seconds on the R8 V10 Plus. The new S tronic transmission also significantly improves comfort through smoother gear shifts and greater efficiency. New full-LED headlamp design continues to give the R8 an unmistakable presence while standing still and at speed on the road or the track.
At the top of the range is the new R8 V10 Plus Coupe with 550 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. Equipped with the available S tronic, it catapults from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 196 mph. It weighs approximately 130 lbs. less than the R8 V10 due to ceramic brakes, carbon fiber side blades, front splitter, rear diffuser, and spoiler; a smaller fuel tank; manual Alcantara® seats and reduced sound insulation in the engine bay.
The interior receives beautiful diamond-stitch leather seats as well as an available flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel among other improvements. “The launch of the R8 represented the turning point of the Audi brand and placed luxury on notice,” said Scott Keogh, President Audi of America. “The 2014 R8 will continue to build upon that success for our halo sports car and for the Audi brand as a whole.”
Tony Stark, played by actor Robert Downey Jr., will once again be back in the Audi R8 as his car of choice. Iron Man 3 debuts in movie theatres across the country on May 3rd, 2013.
2014 MY R8 Pricing*
R8 V8
Manual $114,900
S tronic $124,000
R8 V8 Spyder
Manual $128,400
S tronic $137,500
R8 V10
Manual $151,200
S tronic $160,300
R8 V10 Spyder
Manual $164,700
S tronic $173,800
R8 V10 Plus Coupe
Manual $170,545
S tronic $179,645
R8 V10 Plus Spyder
NA
* Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and deliver of $1,250 and gas guzzler tax of $3,000, option costs, tax, title, and license fees. Dealer sets actual price.