2014 Audi R8

CHANGES FOR 2014:

-Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic replaces single-clutch six-speed

-More-powerful V10 Plus model

-Wave disc brakes for V8 and V10; ceramic brakes on V10 Plus

-Full LED headlights and taillights

-Available diamond-stitched leather and perforated steering wheel

-Round exhaust finishers and newly-designed side mirrors

-New wheel designs

-Chrome, aluminum and high-gloss black interior trim

Following a hiatus for 2013, Audi's exotic R8 sports car returns with a new, 550-hp 5.2 V10 Plus Coupe to top the line. Performance is augmented by a lower curb weight, thanks to the use of carbon fibre (side blades, front spoiler, rear diffuser and spoiler), a smaller fuel tank, manual seats ceramic brakes and reduced engine-bay sound insulation.

The 525-hp V10 (5.2) and 430-hp V8 (4.2) models carry over from the 2012 lineup, in Coupe and Spyder (convertible) variants. More noteworthy than an extra 25 horsepower is a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which replaces the clumsy single-clutch six-speed previously available. A six-speed manual with gated shifter is available with all three engines.

V8 models get 19-inch wheels, matte-silk deep black interior trim, Audi magnetic ride control, LED headlights, heated and auto-dimming side mirrors with electric folding function, colour-keyed outside mirrors and rear bumper fascia, power rear spoiler, automatic climate control, cruise control, heated eight-way power adjustable sport front seats with four-way power lumbar, leather/alcantara seat upholstery, flat-bottom leather steering wheel with electric tilt and telescope adjustment, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, seven-speaker stereo, satellite radio, Homelink and colour driver information display.

Base V10 cars add unique 19-inch wheels, gloss black rear bumper fascia, nappa leather seats, navigation, music interface, 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo, park assist and backup camera.

V8 and V10 Spyder standard features are similar to those of the coupe models.

V10 Plus trim adds sport-tuned suspension, ceramic brakes, carbon sigma interior trim and outside mirror housings, titanium rear bumper fascia, steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. V10 Plus models also delete the 12-speaker stereo and power-adjustable seats.