2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI

Audi R8
Audi R8
This seems so logical that it's a surprise Audi didn't get around to it sooner. For 2009--at least for Europe--Audi borrows the V10 engine from its über-performance S6 and S8 sedans, and wedges it into its R8 sports car.

New for the 2008 model year, Audi's aluminum-intensive sports car arrived with a direct-injection version of the maker's 4.2-liter V8 rated at 420 horsepower.

Due first in Europe sometime this summer, the R8 5.2 FSI takes the performance factor up a notch. To be sold alongside V8 versions of the R8, the 5.2's 5.2-liter V10 boasts 525 horsepower. As with the 4.2, buyers can choose from either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

Styling tweaks will help differentiate the newest R8 from its subordinate stablemate, as will standard LED headlamps.

Audi isn't committing to timing yet, but expect the 5.2 to hit U.S. showrooms in early 2010 as a 2010 model. Also expect a price of around $200,000.

Audi A7 Concept

Audi S7 Concept
Audi S7 Concept
More than a concept, the A7 represents Audi's response to Mercedes' CLS sedan. As the CLS is a rakish version of Mercedes' more-conventional midsize E-Class, the A7 is the "couped" version of Audi's midsize A6. Not an actual coupe, the A7, like the CLS, keeps its rear doors. Audi calls this new coupe/sedan design Sportback, and promises that this theme will eventually spread to other lines.

CG Says...
Audi isn't chasing volume with A7, as Mercedes CLS sales have never been strong. That said, Audi's new design language continues to impress, as this strikingly handsome sedan is certain to turn heads at the country club. For the well-heeled coupe intender who periodically needs the rear seat, this gorgeous indulgence could be the answer.
Power for the concept comes from Audi's new supercharged 3.0-liter V6. Look for this engine as well as Audi's normally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 in the production car. Both engines will mate to a 6-speed automatic transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Audi has not announced pricing, but Consumer Guide expects the production version to start at around $60,000 when it arrives in U.S. showrooms in late-2009 as a 2010 model.

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