A Faster, More Hardcore Audi R8 May be on the Way

A faster, track-focused version of the Audi R8 may be on the way.

A mysterious Audi R8 prototype was recently spotted testing by spy photographers. The prototype raised some eyebrows as it features a heavily reworked rear end with a lower rear diffuser not seen on any other R8 models. Joining the new diffuser is a pair of extra-large exhaust tips and a large rear grille section that runs the width of the vehicle’s rear. The prototype also features the small rear wing from R8 V10 Plus models.

The modifications made to the car are similar to those that separated the R8 GT from standard versions of the R8. The R8 GT, which was limited to just 333 units, was 220 lbs lighter than the standard R8 and also featured a more powerful 550 horsepower version of Audi’s 5.2-liter V10 engine, a small rear wing and a rear diffuser. This leads us to believe we may be looking at a ‘GT’ version of the second-generation R8, though we could see such a model adopting a name other than ‘GT’.

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If a successor to the Audi R8 GT is in the works, expect it to have more than 600 horsepower on offer along with reworked aero, a lighter kerb weight and some sport-inspired interior touches. We wouldn’t be surprised if it debuted at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show, so be sure to keep an eye out for it sometime next spring.