Audi R8 Spyder V10 plus unveiled

Said to complete the Audi R8 model line, the Audi Spyder V10 plus features the most powerful series-production engine Audi has built thus far.

The German convertible will house a 5.2-litre dry-sump V10, capable of pumping out 449kW/560Nm.

Audi claims it will run from 0-100km/h in 3.3 seconds, then on to a top speed of 328km/h.

The Spyder plus’ front spoiler, side-blades, sill trims, diffuser, rear spoiler, and convertible top compartment lid are all made out of plastic-reinforced carbon fibre.

PCOTY 2016: Holden Commodore SS V Redline #6

The weight-saving method worked, it seems, as the car only has a kerb weight of 1695kg – less than an SS Commodore.

Double wishbones feature on all wheels, which the company says “demonstrates the model line's closeness to motorsport”.

“Dynamic steering with variable steering ratio is available as an option,” Audi adds.

This boosts the car’s responsiveness at all speeds, providing high-performance cornering characteristics and quick steering behaviour.

“It countersteers with tiny impulses at the cornering limit to further improve stability.”

Audi S1 long-term update 7

The R8 Spyder V10 plus also has optional magnetic ride damper control.

Audi says the V10 remains a screaming, and very responsive unit, as a naturally aspirated engine should be.

“Incredibly high revving up to 8,700 rpm, lightning-quick responsiveness and an awe-inspiring, voluminous sound – the V10 mid-engine is an object of fascination.”

With cylinder on demand tech, you don’t have to have all 10 cylinders firing all the time – though without a roof you’d have uninterrupted access to the sound of those cylinders.

Inside, several buttons on the wheel mean drivers won’t need to take their hands away to change drive modes, make a call, or change exhaust settings.

Audi quits World Endurance Championship

Because of this, the rest of the cabin remains relatively minimalistic.

With the first deliveries of the new top-dog R8 to take place this year, it won’t be long until they’re spotted on the streets.

However, with a base price of 207,500 euros ($305,000 AUD) in Germany, they aren’t going to be cheap once they show up here.