The convertible version of Audi’s R8 supercar has been spotted testing in Germany without a hint of camouflage, giving us our best look at the drop-top yet! The Audi R8 Spyder is expected to make its world debut in just a few months at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Although initial reports suggested the roofless R8 would use a targa top setup – like the recently unveiled Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport — it is now believed the R8 will sport a conventional soft top.

These latest images of the test car seem to prove that the new convertible will gain a conventional fabric roof but misses out on the R8’s trademark aluminum side blades. Other major changes for the new spyder that are expected to make it to production will be additional air intakes located behind the seats as well as a pair of safety roll bars. The placement of the fuel filler cap will also be changed due to the missing rear pillars, while changes under the sheetmetal will likely include extra chassis strengthening.

The prototype spotted also seems to support reports that the R8 Spyder will be offered exclusively with V10 power. From the exhaust pipes, we can tell this R8 is sporting the 5.2L V10.

The R8 Spyder will bow at Spetember’s Frankfurt show, with sales likely to kick off in early 2010.

    Print This Post