The most apparent fault with the Audi R8 is its lack of visceral oomph. Mind you, it's no deal breaker: The 4.2L R8 took our "America's Best Handling Car" award last year. Yet the feeling is the same on the 5.2L V-10 "Plus" model. As Arthur St. Antoine wrote in his review, "The 5.2 doesn't feel that fast. If there's a flaw in the character of this immensely gifted machine, it's that it's too genteel."
If the above spy photos offer any indication, Audi could be adding some brashness. Our photographers caught what looks to be a lightweight Sport version of the mid-engine supercar running laps on the Nürburgring. The wheels and exhaust tips are 5.2L V-10 spec, but offer little information otherwise.
Aesthetic differences are minimal on this prototype. We see subtle canards on the ends of the lower fascia, quick-release buttons on the trunk, a wing, and a more aggressive rear diffuser. While there's always a hope for more power from the Gallardo-sourced, 518-hp mill in the R8, we wonder how fearful the German overlords are of stepping on the Italian's toes.
Aesthetic differences are minimal on this prototype. We see subtle canards on the ends of the lower fascia, quick-release buttons on the trunk, a wing, and a more aggressive rear diffuser. While there's always a hope for more power from the Gallardo-sourced, 518-hp mill in the R8, we wonder how fearful the German overlords are of stepping on the Italian's toes.