2017 Audi S5 - Review

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► BASE PRICE :

2017 AUDI S5 - $53,100

The S5 recently received a mid-cycle update that included more angular headlights, a "singleframe" grille and a more aggressive front fascia. Taken together, the styling changes added more visual pop to the S5's already eye-catching form.

Power continues to come from a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. Buyers have the choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, both of which send power to all four wheels via Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The 0-to-60 mph sprint comes in a claimed 4.9 seconds, and fuel economy is rated at 17/26 for the manual and 18/28 for the automatic.

As with all of Audi's "S" models, the S5 features a full complement of suspension and interior modifications designed to impart a more sporting look and feel. Larger brakes and a tightened and lowered suspension help the Z-rated tires deliver the uprated power to the street. The coddling interior features carbon fiber trim, special seats and a unique steering wheel.

Available equipment includes Audi'a MMI infotainment interface and Audi Connect, which brings in-car internet connectivity and industry-first Google Earth integration - complete with panoramic views and high-resolution 3D satellite and aerial imagery.( SEE ALL PHOTOS )

EXTERIOR

The new Audi S5 Coupé spans a length of 4,692 millimeters (15.4 ft). It is 1,846 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide and 1,371 millimeters (4.5 ft) high. The long wheelbase of 2,764 millimeters (9.1 ft) emphasizes the dynamic silhouette of the two-door sports coupé.

The intelligent combination of materials makes the body very torsionally stiff, safe and lightweight. The new Audi S5 Coupé with standard quattro all-wheel drive weights 1,615 kilograms (3,560.5 lb), 60 kilograms (132.3 lb) less than the previous model.

Audi equips the new S5 Coupé standard with LED headlights. The lower edge of the wide and flat Singleframe extends much farther upward than in the previous model. The striking bumper is expressively shaped. The flat air inlet below is adorned by a matt aluminum silver trim strip and spans the entire width of the vehicle. The side air inlets have bold edges and honeycomb grilles in matt titanium black as well as vertical bars evoking the blades of a racing car. At the front end, the new Audi S5 Coupé expresses its independence with additional sporty details, such as the S-specific radiator grille in matt twilight gray with double slats in matt aluminum silver.

When viewed from the side, the new Audi S5 Coupé exhibits a characteristic, wave-shaped shoulder line. The sweeping line with pronounced bulges over the wheel arches is a visual cue to the quattro all-wheel drive. At the transition from the front wheel arch to the A-pillar, a three-dimensional trim element in matt aluminum silver with an integrated S5 logo underscores the supreme sportiness of the new Audi S5 Coupé. As with a racing car, the aluminum-look exterior mirrors are mounted on the top shoulders. Chrome inserts for the door handles and powerfully contoured sill trims in the body color with textured black sill top strips also contributed to the honed exterior.

The rear end sports slim LED rear lights with dynamic turn signals. A distinctive spoiler in the body color on the luggage compartment lid improves the aerodynamics. Integrated into the boldly shaped rear bumper is a flat, black honeycomb grille. The matt twilight gray diffuser with vertical struts and a matt aluminum silver clasp frame the two dual chrome tailpipes.

The three-dimensional trim elements on the flanks, the radiator grille and the luggage compartment lid bear S5 logos with a red rhombus. The 11-shade color palette includes two new colors exclusive to the S model: Navarra blue and Misano red.( SEE ALL PHOTOS )

INTERIOR

The new Audi S5 Coupé also features cultivated sportiness in the interior. The clean design with its strong horizontal orientation makes the spaciously designed interior - which seats four - appear even larger. With a volume of 465 liters (16.4 cu ft) the luggage compartment of the S5 Coupé offers everyday practicality.

A broadly extended band of air vents, an elegant air conditioning panel and a large decorative surface define the instrument panel layout. The Audi MMI display welcomes the driver and passengers with a screen featuring the S5 logo. At night, LED light guides trace the contours of the doors and the center console - in 30 colors with the optional ambient light package. The illuminated door sill strips, the three-spoke sport leather steering wheel with multifunction plus and the chrome clasp on the tiptronic selector lever bear the S logo with a red rhombus (as do the welcome screens of the color DIS or Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI display.

Thanks to the vehicle's excellent aeroacoustics, the interior noise level is exceptionally low. The workmanship quality is on the high level that distinguishes an Audi. As is typical for an S model, the color black dominates. For example on the headlining and the instrument panel. The decorative inlays provide elegant contrasts. They come standard in matt brushed aluminum, with options for carbon Atlas, gray natural oak and black piano finish.

The optional S sport seats have integrated head restraints, adjustable bolsters and a pneumatic massage function. Fine Nappa leather in the colors black, rotor gray or magma red with diamond pattern, contrasting stitching and an S badge is the standard upholstery. ( SEE ALL PHOTOS )

PERFORMANCE & STYLING

The look of the Audi S5 is still attractive, but it's no longer fresh. For the past six years or so, the A5 and S5 family has been a design benchmark for luxury coupes, so it's no surprise that many of its cues and themes have appeared in newer models.

That's however also a testament to how well the S5's design works. It has classic rear-wheel-drive luxury-coupe proportions (even though it's all-wheel drive), and the flowing, sculpted design is brought to its best (but not over the top) with accent trim, some blacked-out details, and special available Black Optic 21-inch wheels. Inside, the switchgear can seem a bit excessive or cluttered, yet all of the materials and finishes still live and breathe quality, sportiness, and performance.

Both sporty S5 variants are offered in coupe and Cabriolet (convertible) form. The standard engine on the S5 is the 3.0T supercharged V-6, rated at 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration is just 4.9 seconds to 60 mph for the S5 Coupe, and 5.1 seconds for the S5 Cabriolet.

Handling is excellent for both of these models, although the steering is a bit too far on the numb and artificially weighted side. An Audi Drive Select system lets the driver select modes that include individual settings for the steering, transmission, and throttle (plus those of the available adaptive damping suspension).

The S5 especially manages to straddle two worlds, of entirely comfort-oriented models and those aimed for higher-performance pegs. From the driver's seat it's a versatile, spirited touring car—one that's especially nimble and capable. The quattro all-wheel-drive system aids this, starting with a power split that sends 60 percent of the power split to the rear wheels—which helps with handling yet allows all-weather ability. Brakes are strong, and the 3.0T engine sounds great. 

This year's S5 Coupe was rated by the EPA at 18 mpg city, 28 highway, 21 combined with the automatic, 17/26/20 mpg with the manual. The S5 Cabriolet, which is only available with the automatic, was rated at 18/26/21 mpg.( SEE ALL PHOTOS )

ENGINE

It's a good day when the "base" engine is the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that's standard in the Audi A5. With 220 smooth horsepower, standard quattro AWD, and your choice of a 6-speed automatic or an 8-speed automatic with Tiptronic manual control, it's no penalty box. However, we're particularly fond of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 in the Audi S5, with its 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. ( SEE ALL PHOTOS )

► 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4

220 horsepower @ 4,450-6,000 rpm

258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500-4,300 rpm

EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/32 mpg (manual), 22/30 mpg (automatic)

► 3.0-liter supercharged V6

333 horsepower @ 5,500-6,500 rpm

325 lb-ft of torque @ 2,900-5,300 rpm

EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/26 mpg (manual), 18/28 mpg (Coupe, S tronic automatic), 18/26 mpg (Cabriolet, S tronic automatic)

SAFETY

Standard safety features for the 2017 Audi S5 include antilock brakes, stability/traction control, front-seat side and knee airbags, and (in the coupe) full-length side curtain airbags. A blind-spot monitoring system, a rearview camera, and front and rear parking sensors are included in the Technology package

In Edmunds brake testing, the S5 coupe and convertible came to a stop from 60 mph within a foot of each other at 108 and 109 feet, respectively. These distances are comparable to those of competing vehicles with summer performance tires.( SEE ALL PHOTOS )

VIDEO

Video by : Motormouth Canada

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►Edited by : Shahen Tharammal

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2017 Audi Q7 - Review

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►Edited by : Shahen Tharammal

► PRICE : 

Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI quattro® Premium $54,800

Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI quattro® Premium Plus $58,800

Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI quattro® Prestige $64,300

The all-new 2017 Audi Q7 is one of the most luxurious and fun-to-drive midsize SUVs you can buy, though it also has a premium price tag. According to our analysis of professional reviews and data, the Q7 comes with a muscular V6 engine that's well-complemented by its automatic transmission, delivering power as soon as you hit the accelerator. Despite its large size, the Q7 is nimble around corners, with precise steering and strong brakes to help you enjoy twisty roads.

Inside, you'll find high-end materials, comfortable seats, and lots of high-tech features to keep you informed, entertained, and safe. The first two rows of seats offer generous room for adults and are comfortable for long drives. The third row is cramped, though, which is typical for 3-row SUVs. Many rivals offer more cargo room than the Q7, so you may want to look elsewhere if you need to do lots of hauling.(SEE ALL PHOTOS)

EXTERIOR

Design-wise, the all-new Q7 proves that Audi can use more than just a few nips and tucks while redesigning a vehicle. The SUV’s body lines are now sharper, blending more squared-off surfaces front to rear. At the same time, the Q7 blends in with the rest of the Audi lineup, featuring headlamps, a singleframe grille and massive bumper intakes similar to those seen on many 2015 model year updates. On the other hand, the Q7’s huge grille connects to the headlights for a unique appearance.

Changes are more subdued around back, where the new Q7 boasts a similar tailgate and a nearly identical bumper. Still, there are a lot of new features, including reshaped, narrower taillights and trapezoidal exhaust pipes. On the sides, the Q7’s trademark character line has been repositioned closer to the sills, while the waistline has been redesigned for a crisper look.

If you find the all-new Q7 less bulky, then you eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. The rebuilt SUV is 1.5 inches shorter and 0.6 inches narrower, while its height remained virtually unchanged. More importantly, the new Q7 is a lot lighter, with certain trims weighing up to 716 pounds less when compared to the previous model. That’s a massive 26-percent drop from the first-gen Q7’s curb weight. Impressive! Most of the weight was dropped from the chassis, which is 220 pounds lighter, and the body structure, which weights 156 pounds less thanks to a new design.

Customers get to choose between 11 exterior colors, four of which are new. An S line exterior package changes the standard bumpers, air inlets, side sills, roof spoiler the diffuser with sportier units, while the grille gets a dark gray, high-gloss finish instead of the standard high-gloss black.(SEE ALL PHOTOS)

INTERIOR

Although the new Q7 is shorter and narrower, the cabin is actually longer and offers more head room and boasts an additional 0.8 inches between the first and second row of seats. Head room has increased by 1.6 inches up front and 0.9 inches in the second row. Cargo capacity has also increased. The seven-seat version offers 10.4 cubic feet of storage room that increases to 27.2 with the third-row seats folded. The five-seat comes with 31.4 cubic feet, which increases to 73.3 cubes with the second row folded flat.

Design-wise, the redesigned interior is a massive departure compared to the first-generation’s cabin. Gone is the bulky center stack with its ancient A/C vents, knobs and display, now replaced by a taller center console. As a result, the A/C controls have been repositioned to the same level as the instrument cluster, while the display now resides on the dashboard. The latter also features a unitary design that stretches from the driver’s to the passenger’s side. A brand-new, three-spoke steering wheel replaces the previous unit, while the instrument cluster is all digital.

Naturally, the new Q7’s cabin is packed with the finest materials we can expect from an automaker such as Audi. The seats can be wrapped in either Cricket or Valcona leather combined with Alcantara and there are seven different color combos to choose from. The high-grade leather is complemented by a host of aluminum and wood trims, including Beaufort walnut.

There’s also a brand-new air conditioning system that uses fewer buttons and controls, with most options displayed on the TFT screen. The MMI system is also new, featuring intelligent suggestions for different tasks, including searching for specific song titles or navigation destinations. As far as entertainment goes, the Q7 comes with one or optionally two 10.1-inch tablets as rear seat monitors. The tablet is powered by NVIDIA Tegra 4 processors, is temperature-resistant and connected to the MMI navigation. What’s more, it provides access to the radio, media, navigation and several car functions via WiFi.(SEE ALL PHOTOS)

SPECIFICATION

► Year:2017

► Make:Audi

► Model:Q7

► Price:$ 54800

► Engine:V6

► Horsepower @ RPM:333

► Torque @ RPM:324

► Displacement:3.0 L

► 0-60 time:6.1 sec. (Est.)

► Top Speed:155 mph (Est.)

FEATURES

While the 2017 Audi Q7 appears, at first blush, to knock all of the basics of a luxury SUV out of the park, there’s a whole other side to this Audi: it’s a high-tech wonderland. From the consumer-geek side of Audi's newest Multi-Media Interface (MMI) to the engineer-in-a-white-coat aspect of the driver assistance systems, the new Q7 places Audi back among the head of the class when it comes to in-car tech.

That's why we give it a 10. There's no sensual stone left unturned in this luxury SUV.

While Audi hasn’t finalized all of the assistance systems that will be available for American consumption, the Q7’s smorgasbord is ample. It offers everything from adaptive cruise control and stop-and-go traffic jam assist, to a “predictive efficiency assistant” that reads the terrain (drawing on its navigation data, even when route guidance isn’t being used) to suggest slowing down in advance of sharp turns, low speed limits, or other reasons to lighten up on the throttle and save some fuel.

There’s also a lane-keeping system, collision avoidance, left-turn assist monitoring, as well as a city assistance package that includes low-speed lane-change assistance and blind-spot monitoring, a rear "Pre Sense" collision system which takes proactive measures if it senses an impending rear-end collision, cross-traffic assist, and a new trailer maneuvering assist, which takes the steering control and places it on the MMI knob—much like the system Ford recently announced in the new F-150.

Other high-tech features available in the new Q7 include a parking assistance package, which bundles automatic parallel and perpendicular parking and departure, using surround-view cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors, which can also be used by the driver for precise views when parking manually.

A night vision option uses long-range infrared cameras to detect objects up to 984 feet away, as well as detecting people and larger animals at distances up to 328 feet, highlighting the people or animals with yellow markings on the display screen.

The Q7 is offered in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige models. While surfaces and trims get upgraded on those upper-level models, stepping up to them isn't something you'd do as much for the additional features as for the potential options. For instance, some of the best tech features (like the Adaptive Chassis package and its four-wheel steering and adaptive suspension), and the 23-speaker, 1,920-watt Bang & Olufsen BeoCore sound system, are only available on the Prestige. But option up a Q7 Prestige with those items plus the Luxury Package with its power-closing doors and contour seats, plus a few other extras, and you can end up pushing the price toward $85,000—quite a distance from the $56,000 base price for a Q7 Premium 3.0T. (SEE ALL PHOTOS)

DRIVETRAIN

Despite a curb weight of almost 5,000 pounds, the 2017 Audi Q7 is surprisingly maneuverable and nimble. Especially if the optional adaptive air suspension and four-wheel steering are specified, the Q7 drives as if it's actually a size smaller, like Audi's Q5. Even without the Adaptive Chassis option, though, the Q7 is sure-footed around turns and instills driver confidence thanks to strong, consistent brakes. This athleticism doesn't come at the expense of ride quality, either. Rough pavement is effortlessly smoothed over and the cabin remains blissfully quiet. Accelerating to highway speeds or passing is easy thanks to the strong V6 and responsive eight-speed transmission.

Just as significant as what the driver can draw from the Q7 is what the car can do on its own. Combining existing technologies like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, forward-looking cameras and navigation information, the Q7 can help drivers considerably during congested freeway commutes or vast, unpopulated highway stretches by doing much of the driving on its own.(SEE ALL PHOTOS)

STYLING

The 2017 Audi Q7 is a seven-passenger full-size SUV that is available in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige.

Standard features for the Premium trim include 19-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, automatic wipers, LED running lights and taillights, power-folding heated mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, front and rear parking sensors, frontal collision warnings with pedestrian detection and automatic braking, and a power liftgate.

On the inside, you get cruise control, selectable drive modes, three-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 7-inch color driver information display, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with wheel-mounted shift paddles, leather upholstery, heated eight-way power front seats (with driver four-way power lumbar), driver memory settings, 35/30/35-split second-row folding seats and 50/50-split power folding third-row seats. Standard tech features include a rearview camera, Audi's MMI infotainment system, a 7-inch central display, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD and satellite radio, and two USB ports.

A navigation system option is available and is paired with voice control, a handwriting recognition controller pad, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, emergency telematics and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Premium Plus includes the navigation system and adds keyless entry and ignition (with hands-free tailgate access), auto-dimming side mirrors, a power-adjustable steering wheel and interior ambient lighting. Options include the Vision package (LED headlights, a configurable gauge-cluster display and a surround-view camera system) and the Cold Weather package (four-zone automatic climate control, ventilated 12-way power front seats and manual rear window sunshades).

The Prestige includes the above listed Premium Plus options along with 20-inch wheels, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alerts, side exit warnings, a head-up display, additional interior lighting, a high-resolution 8.3-inch central display and a 19-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system.

All Q7 trims are eligible for the Cold weather package (heated steering wheel and rear seats), a tow hitch and a rear-seat entertainment system. Premium Plus and Prestige trims are eligible for the Driver Assistance package (traffic sign recognition, automatic high beams, lane-departure intervention and adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist).

Options reserved solely for the Prestige trim include the Luxury package (18-way power front seats with massage functions, power door closers, a faux-suede headliner and upgraded leather upholstery), Adaptive Chassis package (all-wheel steering and an adaptive air suspension), a night vision camera and a 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.(SEE ALL PHOTOS)

ENGINE

While Audi admits a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline 4-cylinder and a 3.0-liter TDI turbodiesel are slated to put in an appearance at some future date, initially the new Q7 comes with the existing supercharged 3.0-liter gas-fired V6 that continues to make 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a responsive, paddle-shiftable 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission teamed with Audi’s Quattro AWD system, the engine takes this handsome and notably lighter hauler from 0-60 mph in a claimed 5.7 seconds, gives it a stellar 7,700-pound towing capability, and earns 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway fuel economy numbers from the EPA compared to the 16/22 comparative stats of the previous-generation Q7 with the same powertrain. 

► 3.0-liter supercharged V6 

333 horsepower @ 5,500-6,500 rpm 

325 lb-ft of torque @ 2,900-5,300 rpm 

EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/25 mpg (8-speed automatic)

SAFETY

Standard safety features for the 2017 Q7 include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and frontal collision warning with automatic braking. Also included is Audi's Pre-Sense basic system that senses if the driver is attempting to avoid a collision and automatically tensions the seatbelts, primes the braking system and closes windows and the sunroof. Available Audi Connect services also include emergency assistance, automatic crash notification, remote door locking and curfew, speed and valet alerts.

The Prestige trim gets a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and intervention, and side exit alerts (notifies exiting occupants if a car or bicyclist is approaching from behind). Rear seat side airbags are optional on all Q7 trims.

In Edmunds brake testing, the Q7 Prestige with the Adaptive Chassis package came to a stop from 60 mph in 112 feet, which is a very good result for an SUV in this class.

FUEL ECONOMY

As we're still waiting for the arrival of the 2017 Audi Q7 in 2.0T form, and the TDI model likely won't return until next year, that leaves only a single powertrain combination for the U.S. at this point.

The 2017 Audi Q7 isn't leading in its efficiency, but there are some higher-mileage models on the way.

Official EPA ratings for the 3.0-liter supercharged V-6, paired with the 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are 19 mpg city, 25 highway, 21 combined.

That's not segment-leading, in any way, but we've seen some evidence that real-world numbers are impressive. Over around 250 miles of pretty rapid twisty-road driving, over several vehicles, we saw an average around 20 mpg.(SEE ALL PHOTOS)

VIDEO

By : KBB


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►Edited by : Shahen Tharammal

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2017 Audi R8 - Review

►Edited by : Shahen Tharammal

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PRICE :

R8 V10 $162,900

R8 V10 plus $189,900

Audi has introduced the long-awaited 2017 R8

The outgoing R8's entry-level V8 mill has been dropped, and the new model's base engine is a Lamborghini-derived 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine rated at 540 horsepower and 398 lb-ft. of torque. Linked exclusively to a seven-speed S tronic transmission controlled by shift paddles, the ten-cylinder rockets the R8 from zero to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 200 mph. A brand new version of Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system helps put the power to the ground.

Buyers after more power can step up to the R8 V10 plus, which boasts an evolution of the base model's V10 that has been tuned to generate 610 horsepower and a healthy 413 lb-ft. of torque. The plus model is capable of reaching 62 mph from a stop in 3.2 seconds before going on to a top speed of 205 mph. 

Fuel economy checks in at about 20 mpg for the R8 V10 and 19 mpg for the R8 V10 plus. Both models pack a start/stop system, a coasting function built into the transmission and Audi's cylinder on-demand technology, which seamlessly turns the V10 into a five-cylinder when its full output isn't needed.

The R8 tips the scale at 3,428 pounds thanks in part to a chassis made out of lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber. All of the car's body panels are made out of aluminum, and select components (including the front splitter and the rear diffuser) can be crafted out of carbon fiber at an extra cost.

EXTERIOR

Ah, the [ahem] “all-new” Audi R8 is upon us, and this seems to me more like a refresh than a redesign. Yes, I understand Audi not wanting to mess around too much with the R8’s style mojo, but c’mon guys…

Up front the changes include a larger hexagonal grille with a bolder outline and a mesh insert, while the air intakes on the edges of the bumpers are shrunken and now have vertical slats. The headlights also got a mild tweak, as their edges are now straight instead of having the subtle curve that the 2015 model had. Additionally, the European market gets the new laser high-beam headlights that use a camera system to detect oncoming traffic and adjust the beam for ideal distribution. Unfortunately, the NHTSA has yet to approve them for use in the U.S.

Another key change is the elimination of the vertical contrast stripe just above the rear air intake. This is one change that I am all for, but it’s not revolutionary.

Around back, the 2017 R8 gets lightly revised taillights with new graphics underlined by new rear grilles with mesh inserts. The tailpipes also gain a trapezoidal shape in place of the old circular units, and the diffuser spanning the gap between the tailpipes is revised.

On the R8 V10 Plus, there is an added carbon-fiber-reinforced (CFRP) wing.

Where there are some pretty significant changes are in the numbers, specifically curb weight. The 2017 R8 V10 Plus checks in at just 3,428 pounds, which is up to 110 pounds less than the 2015 model. This weight loss is thanks to a new multi-material lightweight construction that includes an Audi space frame that weighs only 441 pounds. The body is made up of CFRP B-pillars, central tunnel, and rear wall. The R8’s front end is made of aluminum, as is the roof arch and the rear section of the frame. Despite the weight loss, the new R8 is approximately 40 percent more rigid than the 2015 model. There is no mention of the weight savings in the base R8 V10, but I assume it is roughly the same.

The 2017 R8 is 174 inches long, 76.4 inches wide and 48.8 inches tall, which makes it 0.6 inch shorter, 0.4 inch wider and 0.5 inch lower. The 2017 model’s wheelbase is the same as the previous model’s at 104.3 inches.

Though the aesthetic changes are quite minor, and would require a close inspection to notice, I do like the fairly drastic weight loss. I guess I need to give Audi credit for that at least.

For 2017, Audi will also improve the R8 e-tron, giving it the same multi-material space frame as the standard model, and also giving it a CFRP rear section. The e-tron’s body also gets a handful of special modifications to drop its drag to 0.28 Cd.

INTERIOR

Inside the cabin, the changes are more noticeable than they are on the outside. First up is a redesigned, flat-bottom steering wheel with plenty of controls mounted on the crossbars – more than on the 2015 model. Audi also added a set of revised sports seats with enhanced lateral support, thanks to revised headrest and deeper pockets – these updated seats are standard on the V10 Plus but optional on the standard model.

Giving the driver all the important vitals on the 2017 R8 is Audi’s virtual cockpit, which features a 12.3-inch screen. This screen not only replaces the instrument gauges, but also the MMI screen that cluttered up the center console. The driver can reconfigure this display via controls on the new steering wheel to show only the information he wants.

From images, I can see that the designs of the dashboard and the center stack are new, too. The air vents are reshaped and the center vents are no longer housed within the center stack bezel. Additionally, the HVAC controls are repositioned and appear to be easier to reach. Lastly, with the six-speed manual transmission no longer an option, the center console features only the S tronic transmission’s switchgear.

The covering for the cabin is at the discretion of the buyer. He can go with an Alcantara-and pearl Nappa leather combo or the optional full fine Nappa leather. Other optional dress-up items include diamond stitching and clear-coated carbon-fiber trim.

Standard on the 2017 R8 is MMI navigation and the MMI touch wheel. The Audi connect module gives the passenger the ability to connect his smartphone or tablet to the car and utilized the system’s Wi-Fi hotspot. For buyers who need a little more, there is an optional Bang & Olufsen audio system with 500 watts.

Overall, the cabin looks and likely feels like a new generation compared to the 2015 model. So where Audi failed to completely impress me on the outside, it certainly made up for it in the cabin.

SPECIFICATION

► Year:2017

► Make:Audi

► Model:R8

► Price:$ 162900

► Engine:V10 (Est.)

► Transmission:7-speed S tronic

► Horsepower @ RPM:540 (Est.)

► Torque @ RPM:398

► Displacement:5.2 L (Est.)

► 0-60 time:3.5 sec. (Est.)

► Top Speed:200 mph (Est.)

FEATURES

The Audi R8 sports an impressive set of standard features with an equally impressive starting price: more than $163,000.

We give it a score of 9, for that roster of stuff, and points for standout features like its full-screen "virtual cockpit.

The V-10 model comes with interior niceties such as Nappa leather and black Alcantara headliner, heated 18-way, power-adjustable sport seats, LED lighting, and the next generation of Audi’s Multi-Media Interface system, dubbed MMI Plus, which includes navigation. A Bang & Olufsen audio system with 13 speakers and 550 watts is standard.

Mechanical bits include Audi’s magnetic ride damper control and 19-inch alloy wheels. Options include active dynamic steering with variable assist and ratios, and 20-inch wheels.

The R8 V10 Plus is positioned more for track duty. It will forgo the magnetic dampers for stiffer shocks and steel springs. Carbon ceramic brakes—15 inches in diameter up front and 14 in the rear—are standard as well, and inside it gets racing bucket seats with a fixed seat back position.

►  Audi R8 infotainment

The biggest change for the 2017 R8 interior is the introduction of Audi’s new virtual cockpit. Instead of a center screen, it has a 12.3-inch screen in the instrument panel. Together with the numerous steering wheel buttons, it keeps most of the controls directly in front of the driver.

The virtual cockpit can be controlled via the familiar dial on the center console or through or a group of buttons on the left side of the steering wheel. The screen is configurable, allowing drivers to choose which type of information they want to see, and a View button on the steering wheel allows features such as the Google Earth-powered navigation system to be shown on the full screen.

We have mixed feelings after our first exposure to the new MMI system and its virtual cockpit. The screen is easy to see and anyone familiar with MMI will be able to work the controls, but right seat passengers won’t have access to the radio and other systems, and entering menus of one system, such as the phone, might mean you can’t see the navigation system for a short time. There’s plenty of room for a center screen. Why not use two screens?

PERFORMANCE

First and foremost, the R8 is a supercar, and that means it's about power and performance. However, it is also a surprisingly comfortable cruiser. With the Drive Mode Select system in the Comfort or Auto modes, the suspension does a surprisingly good job of soaking up bumps and ruts.

We've given it a 10 here for outstanding drivetrain performance, ride and handling, and a point for being exceptional.

Choose the Dynamic or Performance modes (the latter shuts off the traction control and lets the driver optimize the traction in wet, dry, or snow conditions), and the R8 becomes a track-ready weapon.

By the numbers, the V-10 makes 540 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque in the R8 V10; 610 hp and 413 lb-ft in the R8 V10 Plus. Both are mated exclusively to a 7-speed automatic and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Drive the R8 hard into a corner, and the first thing you notice is the quick turn-in response. The available active dynamic steering is quick and precise, but we would prefer a bit more weight. Maintain speed through the turn and the relentless grip of the Pirelli P Zero tires becomes obvious. When they do finally give up traction, handling is neutral, reacting according to the driver’s inputs. Enter a turn too quickly and it will push forward rather than rotate unless you can keep the nose down with a touch of the brakes. Kick the throttle too hard mid-corner and the rear end will step out like a rear-drive car. However, at this point the all-wheel-drive system can send power to the front wheels to help you drive out of the slide.

We’ve only piloted the V10 Plus model, which comes with big carbon ceramic brakes. As expected, they provide very willing stopping power, though they require a light touch on the street.

Like the dynamic character, the engine and transmission can be relaxed for street use or at the ready for track duty. In the Comfort or Auto modes Audi's S Tronic dual-clutch gearbox executes relaxed shifts that are perfect for everyday driving. Opt for Dynamic mode, however, and it holds lower gears, keeping the revs up high, and making throttle response immediate. This is an advanced, modern transmission, but we’re sad to see the manual go.

In any mode and at any speed, the V-10 has power to spare. There is no swell of power like in a turbocharged or supercharged car. Instead, power delivery is linear and constant. Standard all-wheel drive and a launch control feature put the power down efficiently, making it easy to achieve Audi’s 0-to-62 mph estimates of 3.5 seconds for the V10 model and 3.2 seconds for the V10 Plus. After that dash, the power keeps building to a top speed of 199 mph for the V10 and 205 mph for the V10 Plus.

BODY STYLE

The 2017 Audi R8 is a two-seat midengine exotic sports car offered in coupe form only. There are two trim levels: V10 and V10 Plus.

Standard equipment on the V10 includes 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, automatic high beams, LED engine-compartment lighting, adaptive magnetic-ride suspension dampers, adjustable drive settings (Drive Select), front and rear parking sensors, auto-dimming power-folding heated side mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leather upholstery, 18-way power seats (with adjustable side and leg bolsters), automatic climate control, a synthetic-suede headliner, Audi Connect online services with mobile WiFi, Audi's MMI infotainment system, a navigation system, voice controls, a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit instrument and infotainment display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and a 13-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with satellite radio, dual USB ports and an auxiliary input jack.

Options on the V10 include 20-inch wheels, larger carbon-ceramic brakes, red-painted brake calipers, variable-ratio steering, carbon-fiber exterior and interior trim and extended leather upholstery (with or without diamond stitching).

The R8 V10 Plus gets a 70-hp boost and also comes standard with the carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport suspension with conventional (non-adaptive) dampers, a carbon-fiber exterior trim package (including a fixed rear spoiler), an additional "Performance" mode for the Drive Select system, a smaller fuel tank, sport exhaust, a sport steering wheel, partial power sport seats with fixed seatbacks (no recline) and a relatively basic five-speaker audio system.

If you want the extra power but wish you could have the base model's luxuries, you're mostly in luck. The V10 Plus can optionally be equipped with the 18-way power seats, extended leather upholstery and a Bang & Olufsen stereo. Also optional are the 20-inch wheels and variable-ratio steering. You're stuck with the smaller gas tank and conventional suspension, however.

DRIVETRAIN

The 2017 model year marks the end of the line for the 4.2-liter V-8 engine, leaving the V-10 as the only engine option. Audi also cranked up the juice on the base R8 V10 and the V10 Plus, as the V10 now produces 540 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, while the Plus cranks out 610 horses and 413 pound-feet of twist. These numbers account for a 15-horsepower and an 8-pound-feet bump on the V10, and a 60-horsepower and 15-pound-feet increase on the Plus.

Gone is the six-cog manual, making the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission the only available gear-swapper. This transmission delivers power to all four wheels for a 0-to-62 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 201 mph in the V10 model – this makes it 0.1 second quicker to 60 mph and gives it a 6-mph-higher top speed than the 2015 model. As for the V10 Plus, it can sprint to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 205 mph – 0.4 seconds quicker and 8 mph faster than the 2015 model.

The S tronic dual-clutch tranny features a trio of modes, and offers a manual-shift function for maximum control. Launch control allows even an amateur to nail perfect from-the-line starts every time. Lastly, the S tronic gearbox features a mode that opens the clutches when the driver lifts his foot from the accelerator at speed above 34 mph, putting it into a coasting mode that helps save fuel.

Speaking of fuel, the base V10 model is rated at 20 mpg combined, while the V10 plus registers at 19 mpg. These numbers account for a 10 percent reduction in fuel consumption, which Audi attributes to the new-for-2017 stop-start system.

For 2017, the R8 also gets a revised quattro all-wheel-drive system that diverts up to 100 percent of the power to the rear wheels in normal driving conditions for a more dynamic driving experience. However, once things get a little slippery, up to 100 percent of the power can head to the front wheels for maximum traction.

The R8 e-tron also gets an updated driveline that consists of an electric motor that produces 456 horsepower and 679 pound-feet of torque – that’s a healthy bump over the last R8 e-tron’s 375 horsepower. This massive output allows the all-electric R8 to hit 62 mph in 3.9 seconds and top out at either 131 or 155 mph. Additionally, Audi has bumped the e-tron’s cruising range to 280 miles, thanks to a new 92 kWh battery in place of the old 49 kWh battery, and it’s added a new system to recharge the battery in just two hours.

ENGINE

► Type-- V10 5.2 litres

► Power-- 533 hp @ 7,800 rpm (397 kW)

► Torque-- 398 lb·ft @ 6,500 rpm (540 N·m)

► Induction-- Atmospheric

► Power to weight ratio-- 239.6 W/kg

► Bore-- 84 mm

► Stroke-- 92 mm

► Fuel type-- Premium

► CO2 emissions-- 5,964 kg/year

► Transmission-- 7-speed automatic

► Drivetrain-- AWD

SAFETY

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 R8 includes antilock brakes, stability control, side airbags, knee airbags and head curtain airbags. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are also standard.

Somewhat surprisingly, advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation with automatic braking are unavailable.

FUEL ECONOMY

Three main changes have improved the R8’s fuel economy by an estimated 13 percent while also cleaning up emissions ever so slightly. In addition to last year’s high-pressure direct injection, Audi has added port injection, which provides better emissions at startup and allows the computer to choose which type of injection works best for the throttle demands.

The addition of cylinder deactivation is the main contributor to the 2017 R8’s improved fuel economy. Under light engine loads, it shuts down five cylinders. It can use either cylinder bank to power the car, and when the deactivated bank dips below optimal operating temperature, the system can switch banks. Audi has also added a sailing feature that eliminates engine braking during low-speed cruising when the Audi Drive Select system is in "Comfort" mode.

These changes won’t make the 2017 Audi R8 fuel efficient. The EPA rates the coupe at 14 mpg city, 22 highway, 17 combined, while the Spyder manages the same numbers. That merits a score of 5 on our green scale.

VIDEO

By : DigitalTrend

►Edited by : Shahen Tharammal

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