Currently reading: Moscow motor show 2012: facelifted Audi R8 shown

New 2013 Audi R8 features a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox, as well as the addition of a more-focused V10 Plus model

The facelifted Audi R8 has been revealed at the Moscow motor show. Features of the revised sports car include styling tweaks inside and out, a new seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission and the addition of a more focused V10 Plus model to the R8 line-up.

At the front of the new R8, tweaks to the car's skin include a redesigned bumper and new LED headlights. The R8's rear also features new bumper and light cluster designs, as well as a new ‘R8’ logo, restyled rear diffuser and rounded single exhaust pipes in each corner.

Engine variants for the R8 line-up include the previous model’s entry-level 424bhp 4.2-litre V8 and the 5.2-litre V10 with 518bhp, 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 0-62mph sprint times by 0.3sec; the entry-level car now dispatches 0-62mph in 4.3sec, with the V10 version hitting the mark in 3.6sec.

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 car’s 0-62mph time to 3.5sec as well as extending the top speed to 197mph.

To reduce the V10’s weight, the V10 Plus edition features lightweight alloy wheels, reduced insulation and carbonfibre 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 carbonfibre front splitter, with the same material used on the mirror housings and air vents. The rear diffuser is also larger than standard and the exhaust pipes are finished in black. Lightweight bucket seats also feature in the R8 Plus model’s interior.

The facelifted Audi R8 will cost from £91,575 for the entry-level V8, while the V10 with S Tronic is priced from £115,575. These figures represent a premium of £3610 and £1145 respectively. The new flagship V10 Plus S Tronic coupe will set customers back £127,575.

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apu04 23 December 2012

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Moscow Raceway was designed to be categorized FIA 1T and FIM A, which would allow motorsport competition at any level, from national championships in auto and motorcycle racing, to Formula 1 and MotoGP.

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nivir 13 December 2012

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Its subsidiaries design, engineer, manufacture and distribute automobiles and motorcycles under the Audi, Ducati and Lamborghini brands. Audi oversees worldwide operations from its headquarters in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. Audi-branded vehicles are produced in seven production facilities worldwide; Ducati and Lamborghini each have one production facility located in Italy.

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drummer 30 August 2012

great looking car

R8 is still one of the best looking cars ever, and this facelift gives it more polish look. great car but still wondering what the all new R8 is gone be like??