2019 Audi R8 LMS race car unveiled: 2018 Paris Motor Show

The facelifted evolution of the Audi R8 LMS race car has landed at the Paris Motor Show, providing what could be a hint at an imminent facelift for the road-going version.

With a race-modified dry-sump version of the 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10, the 2019 Audi R8 LMS makes up to 430kW and more than 550Nm - depending on FIA restrictions per race - regulated with standard restrictors.

It weighs approximately 1225kg dry, though this can be altered for the same reason as engine outputs – Balance of Power rules.

The 2019 car isn’t just a visual facelift, says head of Audi Sport customer racing Chris Reinke, adding the changes for this evolution of the car makes it easier to drive.

“In developing the evolution of the car, we’ve put even greater focus on our customers and their needs,” says Reinke.

“The pre-design stage for the second evolution of our current model generation centred on many discussions with our teams.”

More specifically, he says the facelifted R8 LMS features a new aero pck which makes it more stable in “various conditions.”

“When it came to cooling, we also looked at the details. For example, the hot rear brakes have quite an influence on the actual tyre temperature. By cooling the rear brakes better, we have a more stable rear axle.

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“When focusing on customer desires, priority one is always running costs. Running costs go together with service intervals. With the clutch and the gearbox, we’ve tried to extend these even more by using different bearings on the gearbox.”

If you want one in Australia, you don’t have to try hard to find one. Melbourne Performance Centre, official partner to Audi Sport and supplier of 25 R8 LMS cars currently, will offer the facelifted model locally for approximately $735,000 landed, and is well equipped to help manage and maintain the car.