Audi R8 (2015)

CAR GARAGE | Audi R8 (2015) | The 2015 Audi R8 should carry over a standard 6-speed manual transmission, and the next limited-edition GT is reportedly in for a new 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual That behaves somewhat like a conventional automatic. What's unclear is whether the 7-speed will also turn up in non-GTS to replace Their current single-clutch 6-speed unit, the which Audi calls R-tronic. Speaking of mpg, Kable says both 2015 Audi R8 engines will Boast Several fuel-saving features not available in this line Previously. Besides cylinder deactivation and automatic stop / start, there's a brake-energy recuperation system - to minimize alternator use and Thus Spake a source of fuel-wasting engine drag - and a Porsche-like "sailing" function That cuts the engine to idle speed sustained during coasting and long downhill runs.

On the safety front, Kable reports the 2015 Audi R8 will be available with "radar-controlled anti-collision technology," but does not Provide details. We've heard nothing yet about other features, but it's a good bet That the 2015 Audi R8 will reprise of most current-model standard and optional equipment, Including a variety of interior and exterior trim choices and trim packages. We'd guess the navigation system will be standard for all models, not just V10s. Look for it to incorporate Audi's latest MMI (Multi-Media Interface) infotainment controller with a touch pad can That Recognize handwritten commands for Certain functions. Again in line with Audi's current trends, today's in-dash screen should give way to a power-up/down display in the dash top.

Per current brand design thinking, the 2015 Audi R8 should take on a more-chiseled look, Announced by a trimmer nose with Audi's latest six-corner "single-frame" grille motif, plus slimmer headlamp clusters atop large water intakes That combine in a sort of number-seven shape. Body lines are crisper, with additional hood sculpting and more prominent wheel openings, Whose Contours are traced by a full-length character line above. Dominating the lower sides is an indented C-shaped "cove" with functional water inlets ahead of the rear wheels, Replacing today's "side blade" treatment.

Beneath the fresh couture, the 2015 Audi R8 will replace today's skeletal "ASF" aluminum space frame with a new-design modular structure, called MSS, that employs aluminum and carbon-fiber. The carbon elements are said to comprise the transmission tunnel, cabin floor, and rear bulkhead, plus the coupe's B-pillars, the which apparently gain enough strength to serve as rollover protection. British sources say Audi has used 62 pounds of carbon to pare bare-body weight by 53 pounds - to about 437 total, claimed to be some 278 pounds lighter than the steel uni-body of a Porsche 911 Turbo. Though we've heard nothing yet about suspension design, the 2015 Audi R8 will probably carry over today's basic 4-wheel geometry double-wishbone/coil-spring with front and rear anti roll bars, a classic sports-car setup That works quite well. 4-wheel ABS disc brakes will naturally continue, doubtless with larger rotors, backed by Audi's ESP anti skid system with traction control. Steering assist may switch from hydraulic to part-or full-electric as a minor fuel-saving measure.