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Admit it, the Delhi Auto Expo 2016 is a whole lot of automotive excitement and is the biggest event ‘auto-malnourished India’ gets to witness. Audi has confirmed to CarWale that they will showcase three new models in addition to the regulars.
New generation R8
Audi’s new R8 has shed more than 45kgs, compared to the outgoing model. The backbone is a lightweight aluminium space frame, with the B-pillars, central tunnel, and rear firewall made from carbon-fibre composite materials. It is wider, lower, and a bit shorter and it is this stance that lends it a more intense look.
Power is unleashed from an evolved 5.2-litre V10 motor in two states of tune under the V10 and V10 Plus monikers. While the former whips out 540bhp, the V10 makes a shattering 610bhp. Audi claims the 0-100kmph is despatched in 3.5 seconds and 3.2 seconds respectively, and top speed for the cars is rated at an ungoverned 323 and 330kmph. Bid farewell to the outgoing car's brilliant gated transmission as the new R8 comes exclusively with the DL800 seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Prologue Concept
With intense competition in the design department from rivals, Audi clearly needed to up its game even further. Backed by a new chief designer, Audi created the Prologue concept which was first revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It provides a deep look into the future styling direction of the Audi brand.
This concept is as wide as an A8 sedan, nearly as long and is considerably lower. Audi has aesthetically given this saloon an evolution of its current design language, striking a good balance between the existing and new look. The most striking aspect on the inside is the touch-sensitive OLED display that runs across the entire width of the dashboard.
On the powertrain front is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 that belts 605bhp with an over-boost function. Power is unleashed to all four wheels through an eight-speed torque-converter automatic. Audi claims the 0-100kmph sprint takes 3.7 seconds.
A8L Security
We suggest you read the ‘Ordinance Factory’s’ annual newsletter a few times before you contemplate reading any further. Yes, Audi has declared that its updated A8L Security armoured car meets “class VR9 ballistic protection standards,” which are currently the most stringent requirements for civilian high security saloons.
This means that it can easily withstand explosive charges like IEDS, tank shells and AK-47 fire to say the least. Before we ignite the destructive forces within you, let us add that this saloon will come equipped with a 500bhp W12 motor that will electronically limit speeds to 210kmph. Run flat tyres, ultra-thick glass, aramid fabric, high-tech aluminium alloys and hot-formed steel armour come standard with this tank!