The Audi R8 Coupe (42, facelift) with the 5.2 FSI V10 engine, producing 525 horsepower, represents the pinnacle of Audi’s mid-engine sports car lineage. Introduced for the 2012 model year and continuing through 2015, this iteration of the R8 benefited from a series of refinements over the original 2007-2011 model, including updated styling, improved performance, and enhanced interior appointments. Positioned as the flagship performance variant within the R8 range, it catered to enthusiasts seeking uncompromising speed and driving dynamics. This model year saw a continuation of the first-generation R8 (internally designated 42), building upon the foundation established with the original launch and solidifying its place as a competitor to established sports cars like the Porsche 911 and Lamborghini Gallardo.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | R8 |
| Generation | R8 Coupe (42, facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.2 FSI V10 (525 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 22.2 l/100 km (10.6 US mpg, 12.7 UK mpg, 4.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 346 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 316 km/h (196.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.1 kg/Hp, 324.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 327.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 525 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 6500 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 6500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CTYA |
| Engine displacement | 5204 cm3 (317.57 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 10 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 300 kg (661.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 100 l (3.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4440 mm (174.8 in.) |
| Width | 1929 mm (75.94 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1252 mm (49.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1638 mm (64.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1007 mm (39.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 783 mm (30.83 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/35 R19; 295/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2012-2015 R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro lies the CTYA engine, a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10. This engine is a direct descendant of the V10 used in the Lamborghini Gallardo, though with Audi-specific tuning and management. The “FSI” designation indicates Audi’s direct fuel injection system, which precisely meters fuel directly into the combustion chambers, improving efficiency and power output. The engine boasts a high 12.5:1 compression ratio and utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for excellent breathing and contributes to the engine’s high-revving nature. The 525 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque are delivered with a characteristic V10 howl, providing a visceral driving experience. The engine is mounted longitudinally in a mid-engine layout, contributing to optimal weight distribution. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing direct control over the engine’s power.
Driving Characteristics
The R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro delivers exhilarating performance. The combination of the high-output V10 and the quattro all-wheel-drive system results in a 0-60 mph time of around 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 196.35 mph. The all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing exceptional traction and stability, particularly in challenging conditions. The manual transmission offers precise shifts and allows the driver to fully engage with the car’s performance. Compared to the earlier 4.2-liter V8 R8, the 5.2-liter model offers a significant increase in power and torque, resulting in noticeably quicker acceleration and a more aggressive driving experience. While the V8 offered a more accessible entry point into the R8 lineup, the 5.2-liter variant was aimed at drivers prioritizing ultimate performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. The dashboard featured a clean, driver-focused design with aluminum trim accents. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, a navigation system, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Exterior options included various wheel designs, paint colors, and aerodynamic enhancements. The R8’s interior, while luxurious, prioritized a sporty and functional environment over outright opulence.
Chassis & Braking
The R8 Coupe features an Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction, utilizing aluminum extensively to minimize weight while maximizing rigidity. The suspension consists of independent McPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, both with coil springs and anti-roll bars. This configuration provides a balanced ride and precise handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock braking system) ensures stability during hard braking maneuvers. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2012-2015 Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro was widely praised by automotive critics for its stunning performance, engaging driving dynamics, and sophisticated design. It was consistently ranked among the top sports cars in its class. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 15.8 US mpg. Compared to the Porsche 911, the R8 offered a more dramatic and visceral driving experience, while the 911 was often lauded for its greater everyday usability. The R8’s all-wheel-drive system provided an advantage in inclement weather, while the 911’s rear-wheel-drive configuration appealed to purists.
Legacy
The Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 FSI quattro has proven to be a reliable and durable sports car. The naturally aspirated V10 engine, while complex, has demonstrated good long-term reliability with proper maintenance. On the used car market, these R8s hold their value well, attracting enthusiasts seeking a high-performance, mid-engine sports car with a distinctive character. The R8’s success helped establish Audi as a serious contender in the high-performance automotive segment and paved the way for future generations of Audi sports cars.
