It’s pretty evident by now that Audi sanctioned an evolutionary design theme for the exterior of the second generation R8, but we had a hunch that the interior would follow in the footsteps of the new TT adopting a fresh approach and these first shots of the dashboard seem to confirm this, at least for the instrument panel.
Housed inside a boxy, leather-covered binnacle is the new reconfigurable, digital monitor, which should be similar in philosophy to the TT’s interface, incorporating both gauges and the display for the MMI infotainment system. We also get a quick glimpse of the round steering wheel hub and aluminum-trimmed air vents.
Under the familiar looking (but sharpened up) body panels, the R8 shares its mid-engine platform with the Lamborghini Huracan, albeit with a longer wheelbase and wider tracks. It will use many aluminum components to save weight, with some sources saying that it could shed well over 100 pounds (45 kg) compared to the current model.
When it enters the market next year, it should stick with the same naturally-aspirated V8 and V10 engines offered on the first generation model, with some tweaks to improve performance and fuel economy, but later down the line, it could get Audi’s twin-turbocharged V8. All-wheel drive will be standard, of course, paired to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. A manual gearbox may be offered too.
Besides the coupe, Audi will introduce a soft-top Spider version.
By John Halas
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
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