Audi is set to expand the R8 lineup with new members of their garage. They will be pulling the cover off the first addition before 2010 is over. This will be an R8 Spyder variant sporting a V-8 under its hood. The tag price for this one will be starting at $135,000 hitting the showrooms by 2011.

The other version will actually be a sportier model compared to the current R8. The new Audi will draw some DNA from the R8 LMS. Last year, the team developing the Audi quattro gave hits of a lighter TT and R8. Back in 2005, Audi did the same to the TT when a sportier limited edition was released with firmer suspension, Recaro racing seats, stripped interior, and more powerful engine.

An R8 prototype was recently spotted in Germany donning some fixed wing at the rear, bigger brakes, and front bumper with small canards.

There has been no official word if the spied car will get an RS badge or whether will it be called as the R8 Sport.

The R tronic transmission of the current R8 range will be replaced with 7-speed dual clutch. The manual six-speed will still remain as standard.

The supercar from the German manufacturer will also have a drop top version which will derive its powerplant from the coupe that will be running on a V10 engine with 525 horsepower or a lower V8 configuration that outputs 420 hp.

The convertible R8 will be released as a 2011 model. Car designers and executives have not released official details but the Audi R8 Spyder was captured in some spy shots my avid industry media persons.

The Audi R8 convertible will be sporting a fabric roof. Some changes taking into effect from concept to production are the safety roll bars, air intakes positioned behind the seats, movement of the cap for the fuel filter, and some strengthening for the chassis.

It appears that Audi wants to make a splash during the Frankfurt motor show which is considered to be the home show for the German car makers.

Around the internet, there are buzzes that Audi may also release an electric version of the R8 or a hybrid to make a green statement.

The V10 version of the R8 will be hitting the display rooms in the US this fall but there has been no word about the sticker price that will be on it.

Even though it may be a car not affordable to the general public, car manufacturers and enthusiast continue to see the demand for such supercars amid the troubled economy.

Photo’s thanks to wysiwip.

I’m convinced this 500bhp will give all the Porsches a run for their money. I’ll be cheering!

Source: Race version of the Audi R8: Audi R8 GT3 @ wheeltronix

Anyway. Decided to make a quick photo-post about this extraordinary piece of Audi engineering (and design) for all of you to gaze at. Yes, this is breathtaking. Yes, this is as pure an Audi as you’ll ever find. Enjoy!

Excellent ad campaign video. I loves it!