Spyder stars at new Audi showroom

Spyder stars at new Audi showroom

AUDI rolled out the long-awaited open top version of its lightweight, mid-engine R8 Spyder when the company opened the doors on the German firm's new flagship showrooms in London.

Based on the 525PS, 5.2-litre FSI model but with a bespoke body featuring extra weight-saving carbon fibre composite panels, Audi's new star car is expected to start reaching UK customers early next year.

Priced from £109,580, the quattro-drive supercar has a soft-top hood that can be lowered and raised at the touch of a button in 19 seconds at speeds under 31mph.

When lowering, it folds like a Z under the automatic cover of its storage compartment above the 10-cylinder engine.

Standard equipment includes all-LED headlights - a world first for Audi in the R8 V10 - an extended leather interior package, heated seats, DVD satellite navigation and unique new seatbelt-mounted microphones which make it possible to talk on the phone even with the top down on the motorway.

Like its Coupe relative, the Spyder delivers uncompromising performance from a largely hand-built motor which develops 530Nm torque and spins freely to its 8,700rpm limit to take the car to 62mph from rest in 4.1 seconds and go on to a top speed of 194mph.