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You knew it was coming; the last naturally aspirated mid-engine, two-seat Audi R8 supercar. The 2023 model year is its finale, with one, raucous remembrance about to hit showrooms: 2023 Audi R8 Coupe V10 GT RWD.
Limited to 333 copies worldwide, the 5.2-liter V-10, which also sees duty in the Lamborghini Huracan, is pumped up to 602 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This allows it to reach 62 mph in 3.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 199 mph. To provide the needed speed, a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with an altered gear ratio is fitted for faster shifts.
That’s noticeably beefier than the base coupe and convertible, rated at 562 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. And unlike the R8 V-10 Performance models, which also come with a 602-hp V-10, this one doesn’t have quattro all-wheel drive; it’s rear-wheel drive.
Other special touches
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To accentuate the point, Audi is fitting the rear axle of the R8 with Torque Rear Mode. This allows the driver manually adjust the traction- and stability-control systems to one of seven pre-programmed curves, from less slippage (1) to more slippage (7) by turning a knob on the steering wheel. The car then considers wheel speed sensors, steering angle, accelerator pedal position, and the selected gear, with the engine control unit measuring engine power on the rear axle.
Audi engineers also removed 44 pounds in weight compared to the R8 V-10 Performance RWD coupe by using exclusive 20-inch, 10-spoke lightweight forged wheels with high-performance Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires and fitted ceramic brakes. The performance suspension employs a carbon fiber anti-roll bar and twin coupling rod connections made of red anodized aluminum to reduce weight and improve handling.
An appropriate wardrobe
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To telegraph this model’s special status, all emblems are black, and the body is accented with a high gloss carbon aerodynamic body kit that includes a front splitter, side skirts, diffuser, and a rear wing with gooseneck suspension.
Inside, Audi ensures the special nature of this R8, as each is sequentially numbered with a plate nest to the shifter on the carbon-fiber center console. The interior’s black and red color scheme, with red seat belts, is an homage to the first R8 GT from 2010. The two colors are used on floor mates and seats.
Audi didn’t say how may would be made available in America. Similarly, pricing wasn’t mentioned, but the 2022 Audi R8 starts at $148,700 for the base coupe.
Of course, this is not a high-volume car, as Audi sold a mere 158 copies in the first half of 2022. That makes this R8 a rare animal, one you won’t see often.