Caught Testing: 2013 Audi R8 GT

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Revised aerodynamics and more power coming to Audi’s mid-engine sports car.

The next Audi R8 GT has been noticed carrying a Frankenstein mixture of the outgoing version’s front and rear fasciae, combined with new aero additions that hint the new model can have additional significantly additional H.P. once it arrives next year. noticed whereas tearing round the Nürburgring raceway in European country, this blue take a look at automotive isn't equipped with the revised front grille and new semiconductor diode headlights and taillights found on the remainder of the recently updated R8 vary. We’re 100-percent positive the Ingolstadt-based creater|carmaker|auto manufacturer|auto maker|manufacturer|maker|manufacturing business} can make all of those minor cosmetic changes by the time the GT reaches production. Revisions to the bodywork of this example – together with a bigger rear spoiler and new hood with an oversized air extractor – do supply some tantalizing clues regarding what may be lurking below the GT’s skin.

600 H.P.

It’s all speculation, for the instant, however extremely in all probability Audi can tune the GT’s five.2-liter V-10 engine from its current output of 560 bhp, to one thing within the region of 600 bhp. Audi’s dual-clutch S Tronic 7-speed automatic drive conjointly replaces the somewhat intractable single-clutch R Tronic 6-speed used antecedently. The mechanical changes can pit consecutive R8 GT directly against cars just like the new Aston Martin beat out, and soon-to-be introduced Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series. 

Audi worked onerous on the previous GT once it came to eliminating performance-sapping weight. style changes sort of a diluent hood and screen, in conjunction with a carbon-fiber decklid, helped trim weight and increase handling art and straight-line speed. we have a tendency to bemoaned the very fact that GTs sold  stateside did while not the carbon fiber-backed sport seats, intrinsical roll cage, and polycarbonate car window found in European-spec models. It stays to be seen however nice the main points variations remain monetary unit and U.S. versions of consecutive R8 GT. 

You can simply spot the roll cage fitted to the present take a look at automotive, in conjunction with bright-red brake calipers stimulation what seem to be carbon ceramic rotors. The latter were nonmandatory on the previous GT, however don’t be shocked if Audi makes then normal on the most recent version. Nothing comes for gratis, of course, therefore expect the lighter, quicker and even additional fascinating 2013 R8 GT to possess a base value of over $200,000 once it arrives within the U.S. next year.