Audi reveals facelifted R8 27 | 07 | 2012

AUDI HAS RELEASED first details of its facelifted R8 ahead of its official unveiling at the Paris Motor Show in September (see more official photos of the facelifted Audi R8).

In addition to a new seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission and a more focused V10 Plus model to the R8 line-up, there's also styling tweaks, both inside and out.

The front gets a redesigned bumper and new LED headlights, while at the back, again there's a new bumper and light cluster. There's also a new ‘R8’ logo, restyled rear diffuser and rounded single exhaust pipes in each corner.

And while the original entry-level 424bhp 4.2-litre V8 and the 518bhp 5.2 V10, there's a new seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission to replace the current model’s six-speed automated manual R-tronic 'box.

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One of the benefits of the new gearbox, according to Audi, is CO2 emissions have been reduced by 22g/km. In terms of pace, the change cuts the 0-62mph sprint times by 0.3sec. That means the entry-level model registers 4.3sec, with the bigger V10 covering the sprint in just 3.6sec.

The newcomer to the range is the more focused V10 Plus. Available only in coupe guise, the V10’s power has been upped by 24bhp to 542bhp. In addition to increasing the car's maximum to 197mph, it also cuts the 0-62mph time to 3.5secs.

Weightsaving has been crucial to the V10 Plus, with lightweight alloy wheels, reduced insulation and carbonfibre touches to the exterior all helping to shave grammes.

The range-topped also gets revised suspension, with tuned springs and shock absorbers.

Prices? Those for the UK have yet to be confirmed, but based on prices in Germany, expect the entry-level V8 coupe to cost around £88,500. The V10 will be around the £120,000 level with the V10 Plus closer to £135,000.

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Jim McGill