Spyshots: Audi R8 Clubsport

Audi is already working on the Clubsport version of the Audi R8 and here is the first proof that comes to confirm this report. A new set of spyshots have emerged showing us the R8 Clubsport, a model that will bring a few exterior styling upgrades, including more spoilers and flaps on the front and side plus a new wing on the tail. The diffuser placed between the pipes seems to be a little bit bigger but this is only what can be seen in the adjacent photos.

As you can see, details are fairly unclear at this point but some rumors are hinting that the Clubsport will be 50 kilos lighter and will be available only in rear-wheel drive form. A manual transmission will be the only gearbox offered on the range, but thanks to various optimizations, it will bring a slight increase in power.

An official public showing is yet to be disclosed but, if we trust the recent media coverage on the Clubsport, the car might be displayed at the Essen Motor Show in late November. As for sales, the car is projected to hit the showrooms and reach the first buyers in the first quarter of 2010.

Separately, the German manufacturer showcased at the Frankfurt Auto Show the R8 Spyder, a model that will be powered by the Audi 5.2-liter TSI engine, the same as in the regular R8. This powerplant develops 525 hp at 8,000 rpm (rev limit is reached at 8,700) and 530 Nm of torque. This means 4.1 seconds naught to 60 mph acceleration time and 12.7 seconds naught to 124 mph. Top speed is rated at 313 km/h (194.49 mph) for the version equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.