2012 Audi R8 GT Review

    Audi has created the very special, limited-edition  for the 2012 MY. The R8 GT builds on the award-winning R8 Coupe and Spyder and represents the pinnacle of performance in the Audi model line. This is the first limited production sports car produced by Audi, and only 333 units will be built worldwide with 90 units destined for the U.S. Each R8 GT has its production number displayed on the gear shift. The R8 GT starting price is $196,800.

  

   The exceptional performance characteristics of the Audi R8 GT are the result of a combination of advanced, lightweight materials and increased power. Audi has taken its 5.2 liter V10 and boosted output to 560 hp, generating 398 lb-ft of torque and propelling the vehicle from 0-60 in an exhilarating 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 198.84 mph, and red lining at 8700 rpm. The combination of quattro® permanent all-wheel drive and the performance tuned suspension ensure that the power of the R8 GT is translated to the road, while the R tronic® sequential gearbox with paddle shifters provides responsive gear changes.   

   

   Weight optimization was performed on virtually every component and body part, including the battery, air intakes and braking system. The rear hatch has been optimized to save 17.6 lb of vehicle weight. In total, the R8 GT is approximately 180 lb lighter than the formidable R8 V10.The matte carbon fiber monoposto cockpit, with perfectly placed controls, defines the driver-oriented interior. Alcantara® surfaces and appointments are standard on the seats, steering wheel, hand brake, knee pad and headliner, all adorned with a choice of three contrasting stitching colors. Creating a seamless look from outside to inside, exterior color accents have been carried over to the interior.ASF® frame technology makes use of aluminum throughout the body and helps maintain the low, overall weight of the R8 GT. ASF also helps increase vehicle rigidity for improved handling and performance.

 

   While designed for performance, the R8 GT interior also exudes refinement offering available Audi MMI® Navigation, automatic air conditioning, and premium sound system.

Of course, extraordinary performance requires a measure of safety, always a priority with Audi. The R8 GT features Electronic Stability Control (ESC), energy absorbing reinforcements in the front and rear and a full complement of air bags. A tire pressure monitoring system helps ensure that owners are warned if pressure falls below a preset threshold.

Competitors: Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Edition, Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera

Powertrain: 5.2-liter V10, 560 hp, 398 lb-ft; six-speed automated manual transmission, AWD

EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 13/19 mpg

   What's New: The R8 GT is a very expensive and very limited edition of Audi's supercar; only 333 will be produced for the world, and a mere 90 will come to America. Engineers whittled down the weight with extensive use of carbon fiber. Lightweight is the word with the R8 GT: The fixed carbon rear wing saves 11.5 pounds, the rear bumper and diffuser drop another 17.6 pounds and the thinner carbon side blades rid the body of 3.3 pounds. Besides all the carbon, a lighter battery cuts 20.7 pounds and thinner carpeting shaves 17.4 pounds. The windshield is lighter than the standard R8's, and so is the exhaust system. In all, the American version of the R8 GT saves 180 pounds over its ordinary cousin, and European models save another 40 pounds on top of that thanks to a polycarbonate engine cover and sport seats. Still, at 3538 pounds, the R8 GT bound for our shores is no flyweight.


                                                      AUDI  R8 GT INTERORS

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