The 2017 R8 will be available in two trims: V10 and V10 Plus. Both models are powered by an amidships mounted 5.2-liter, 10-cylinder engine, but differentiate themselves where power is concerned. The standard model is good for a stated 540 ponies while the Plus outputs 610 horsepower. The models twist their crankshafts to the tune of 398 and 413 pound-feet, respectively.

In the most powerful R8 V10 Plus configuration, the Audi goes from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a claimed 3.2 seconds and powers on to a top speed of 205.1 mph. It's quick, but it also should be more efficient than before. Direct injection, cylinder deactivation, and stop-start anti-idling tech should help the R8 to achieve up to 19.9 US mpg according to the automaker's estimates.

A seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission is the only gearbox available, and when coasting, it can disengage both clutches to further fuel savings. Also standard is Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which defaults to 100 percent rear-axle power, but can send up to 100 percent of available torque to the front wheels if that's where it can find grip.