This Is The Most Capable And Track-Focused Audi R8 Ever Made

But only 44 examples are being built.

While the future fate of the Audi R8 remains uncertain, a new enhanced version of the V10-powered sports car has been revealed by Audi Sport. Dubbed the Audi Sport Performance Parts R8 Edition, the performance division is hailing the enhanced version of the popular German supercar as the "most capable and focused to date." There is a catch, however – only 44 examples are being made, five of which will be sold in the UK in right-hand drive spec. Other locations have yet to be confirmed.

Thanks to a plethora of enhancements, the limited edition R8 is lighter and has significantly more downforce than the standard car. It features an aggressive-looking aero kit developed in a wind tunnel and made exclusively from carbon fiber reinforced polymer, which accentuate the large fixed rear wing and diffuser. Further distinguishing the model are side skirts incorporating the Audi Sport logo and aerodynamic elements behind the rear wheel arches to optimize airflor. Rounding off the package, Audi Sport has fitted more pronounced air inlets, a deep splitter and sculpted canards similar to those fitted to the first-generation Audi R8 GT at the front.

Lightweight multi-spoke black 20-inch wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires save up to in weight to significantly reduce unsprung mass. A three-way coil-over suspension setup has also been fitted to adjust the car for the road or the track, while ceramic brakes fitted to the front and rear feature a titanium braking plate to further reduce weight. All these aero changes result in a significant increase in downforce. At 93 mph, Audi claims this R8 generates 115 lbs of downforce, which is double the amount of the standard car, while at 205 mph it produces a whopping 551 lbs of downforce, which is over 220 lbs more than the standard R8 V10 Plus.

Inside, Audi Sport has fitted an Alcantara steering wheel with a red 12 o’clock marker, a rear view camera, Audi Smartphone interface, bucket seats in perforated Fine Nappa leather, MMI navigation, Audi connect online services and the fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit. All five cars are finished in Misano red and priced at ￡176,560, which is around $234,000.