HERNDON, VA – Audi continues to reinforce its leading position in the high-performance sports car segment — in the R8 5.2 FSI quattro it is rolling out the new top-of-the-line model of the R8 model series, which was developed jointly with quattro GmbH. Its ten-cylinder engine develops 525 hp. Audi technologies, such as quattro permanent all-wheel drive, the lightweight aluminum body, and innovative all-LED lights propel the new Audi model right into its competitive field.

A zero to 62.14 mph sprint of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 196.35 mph exemplify the dynamics of the R8 5.2 FSI quattro. The V-10 engine is firmly rooted in Audi’s motorsport tradition. It revs all the way up to 8,700 rpm — almost as high as a racing engine. At 6,500 rpm the naturally aspirated 5.2L engine delivers a full 390.91 lb.-ft. of torque, at 8,000 rpm it achieves its maximum power output of 525 hp.

The 5.2L engine uses direct injection according to the FSI principle developed by Audi. It achieves a compression ratio of 12.5:1, which contributes substantially to the high power output and the moderate fuel consumption. The R8 5.2 FSI quattro — in the version with the sequential R tronic transmission — gets by on an average of 17.17 mpg.

Audi delivers the R8 5.2 FSI quattro with manual six-speed transmission, or optionally with R tronic, which enables the driver to change gears in an instant via rocker switches on the steering wheel. The “Launch Control” function is integrated with both types of transmission – a program that catapults the car forward from a standing start. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive distributes the engine’s torque to all four wheels, with a strong bias towards the rear wheels.

The interior of this sports car from Audi provides roominess. Behind the seats and under the front hood is room for 6.71 cubic ft. of luggage. The exterior of the R8 5.2 FSI quattro also differs distinctly from that of its V-8 counterpart — with especially notable changes at the front, at the sideblades which provide the engine with intake air, and at the tail end. A very distinctive highlight of the R8 V-10 are the all-LED headlights as standard equipment. Audi is the world’s first automaker to use LEDs for the high beam, low beam, daytime running lights, and turn signals.