Audi R8

By Ross Pinnock

10th August 2007

Meet an exciting trio of new Audis. These exclusive pictures, produced using accurate insider information, reveal for the first time that the firm is planning a new city runabout, a topless version of the R8 supercar and a Mercedes CLS rival.

The Merc challenger, called the A7, will share its underpinnings with the next-generation A6, but feature sleek coupé looks and tuned suspension for
an involving drive. This stylish four-door will fit between the A6 and A8 in the current line-up, which means prices are likely to range from £40,000 to £50,000.

At the other end of the Audi spectrum will be an all-new MINI rival: the A1. Set to debut in 2010, this model will combine desirability with affordability. A range of bodystyles is planned: a three-door hatchback (bottom right), a five-door and a convertible. All will feature the maker’s trademark trapezoidal grille, stubby proportions and LED lights.

The last small Audi was the A2, which was axed in 2005. It was priced from £13,500, and sales were slow as a result. To ensure it’s competitive, the A1 is tipped to cost around £2,000 less.

But before Audi’s cheapest car arrives, the firm will unveil its most expensive model – an open-air version of the R8. Called the Spider, it will keep the coupé’s futuristic looks, but have lift-out targa panels instead of a cumbersome folding roof. It will also gain two speedster-style humps behind the cabin. Prices are likely to start from £85,000 when it arrives in 2009.

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