Grabbing headlines at the recent Paris auto show was the unveiling of the all new Audi R8 mid-engine supercar. Since Audi and Lamborghini are part of the Volkswagen family, the R8 shares its platform with the highly exotic Lamborghini Gallardo which is no bad thing. As for styling, each brand has its own unique design language where the Gallardo leans towards the chiseled stealth fighter look and the R8 a little more ovoid-like and upright but striking in its own way. If you somehow think you’re having a déjà vu moment when looking at the R8, you’re probably right as it was the choice ride for Will Smith in the movie i-Robot that hit the big screen a few short years ago. It was a concept at the time and the final look has been morphed into production reality unlike its Hollywood debut.

As expected, the design team responsible for styling has succeeded in penning a striking look that is aggressive and functional yet still recognizable as an Audi. Those familiar with the new Audi TT Coupe will see some resemblance especially when viewed from the rear and front. Audi’s trademark front grille is nicely integrated into the front fascia and flanked by squinty-like headlamps for a sinuous “get outta my way” look. As with the current trend, nothing less than eighteen inch wheels complete the design. For those hunkering for more, nineteen inch wheels are optional. Staggered tire sizes are 235/40ZR18s for the fronts and monstrous 285/35ZR18s for the rear. The wider rear footprint ensures more effective balance for traction and grip when launching attacks on your favorite racetrack venue or side roads. Being a mid-engine design, the R8’s V8 motor sits behind the cabin for optimum weight balance. Packing an arsenal of high tech features like direct injection, dry sump oil lubrication, variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts, the V8 is claimed to run the 0 to 100 km/h dash in under five seconds. Essentially there’s enough firepower in the engine bay to rival the Italians but not enough to put it over the top. Wouldn’t it be something if the existing W12 cylinder motor used in Audi’s other luxury brand was used instead? The immense power would surely destroy the competition!

In the chassis department, the lightweight rigid aluminum space frame combined with the multi link suspension layout is designed to provide handling dynamics for extreme exercises. With the sticky summer performance tires, the cornering grip should rival the g-forces of a roller coaster ride!

Choosing the weapon of choice has now been expanded to include the Audi R8. Sightings in playful areas like Miami and LA should increase once the in-crowd gets wind of Audi’s latest technological wonder.

For more information on the Audi R8 visit www.audi.com