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Audi R8 (2014): Audi’s plan to replace its mid-engined supercar
Audi is gearing up to replace the R8 supercar in spring 2014 and the next R8 is tipped to follow an evolutionary look, as depicted in our new artist’s impression.
But it’s not the first change to the R8. Later in 2012, Audi will give the R8 a mild facelift and tech update. It will be fitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission instead of the sequential six-speeder, the improved MMI hard- and software we know from the latest A6, the power output of the V10 increases from 525bhp to 540bhp, and at the end of 2012 the limited-edition electric RSe will satisfy those Prius owners who crave a bit more zero-emission grunt.
Audi R8: the new 2014 Audi supercar
In early 2014, Audi will replace the R8 and the second-generation German supercar pursues an evolutionary styling theme. According to the Ingolstadt grapevine, the sideblades and the manual transmission disappear, the packaging is a little more generous here and there, and the MMI system switches to a single multi-functional colour monitor positioned between speedometer and rev counter.
Plenty of new tech will be sprinkled on the new R8. A head-up display will be available as an option and the redesigned lights are variable-intensity LED units.
Carbon and aluminium for the next 2014 R8
The current 100% aluminium-based ASF structure gives way to a multi-material mix on the new R8, introducing carbonfibre for the rear firewall, the transmission tunnel and the B-posts that double-act as rollover protection elements.
This approach makes the body in white 24 kilos lighter and 13% stiffer, CAR understands. The total kerbweight is expected to tumble by a stout 100kg.
Engines in the new Audi R8
While the base model remains loyal to the naturally aspirated V8 good for 450bhp, the power output of the V10 version goes up to 550bhp. Mid-term, the relatively thirsty if charismatic ten-cylinder may give way to a turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 good for 600bhp; the latter is the same engine you’ll find in the Audi S8 and, soon, the Bentley Continental GT.
One year after the R8 coupe, the new R8 Spyder should be ready to charm the in-crowd with a launch in 2015.
The new R8, and its Lamborghini twin, the Gallardo replacement coming in 2013, will both stick with the MSS (modular sports car system) architecture masterminded by Audi. But the generation after that will be part of MSB-M (modular rear-wheel drive maxtrix, mid-engined variant) conceived by Porsche.
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Chinese car maker Geely to launch in UK in 2012
Chinese car maker Geely – better known for its ownership of Volvo – will launch in the UK in late 2012.
Parent company Geely International Corporation has struck a deal with Manganese Bronze Holdings to be its distributor in the UK market.
MBH is the parent company of The London Taxi Company, which manufactures the iconic black cab in Coventry. The name of the new UK distributor will be Geely Auto UK.
What cars will Geely sell in the UK?
First up is the Geely Emgrand EC7, a car roughly the same size as the Skoda Octavia. It’ll be powered by 1.5- and 1.8-litre petrol engines and be available with a four- or five-door bodystyle.
Prices will kick off at around £10,000 – making this car significantly cheaper than an Octavia which starts at around £13k.
The EC7 has a pretty modern design, although the proof will be in the pudding. Not so long ago, domestic cars seen at Chinese motor shows had all the build quality of a 99p children’s toy – but the leaps and bounds made in manufacturing mean that China’s car makers are rapidly closing the gap with Europe’s establishment.
How will the Geely cars be sold?
Not from Volvo dealerships, that’s for sure. Although it owns Volvo, Geely will have a quite distinct chain of showrooms. The company plans a network of 30-40 dealerships in place in time for launch at the end of 2012.
Matthew Cheyne, market development director of Geely Auto UK, said: ‘Geely has a comprehensive range of models well suited to European requirements. We will be aiming to widen our range just as quickly as possible, probably at least a new model range every year for the next four to five years.
‘Geely cars are already suitable for Europe and meet EU homologation and whole vehicle type approval and of course Euro 5 emissions. They are all well equipped products but at affordable prices and will carry a five-year, 100,000-mile warranty.’
Range Rover Evoque by Kahn (2012) first pictures
It was only a matter of time before the tuning world got their hands on the modish new Range Rover Evoque.
Yorkshire fettlers Kahn have just announced their take on the Evoque: new paint colours, huge rims and a range of personalisation to make you stand out from the Chelsea set.
What Kahn do to the Range Rover Evoque
A. Kahn Design in Bradford takes the Evoque and produces whatever the customer’s taste – and wallet – allow.
This example sports a 35mm suspension drop to give the Evoque a more ground-hugging stance. A variety of alloy wheels is offered, ranging from 20-22in in diameter.
But most of the changes to the Kahn Evoque are cosmetic: the brake callipers are yellow, the roof orange (very DS3 Racing), privacy glass is fitted and many of the details are colour-coded.
Upholstery to match your wardrobe
Kahn promises it can spec the Evoque’s interior to match any customer’s mores. They’ll even match the seat upholstery to a buyer’s favourite jeans or suit.
They’ll even change the colour of the dashboard clock.
Much as we often deride the efforts of tuners, this new 2012 Range Rover Evoque by Kahn actually looks pretty smart to these eyes.
If anything, this Evoque is even nearer to the Land Rover LRX concept car.