Audi UK offering upgraded 4.2L V8 for R8 Spyder

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Audi, UK, Luxury

Audi R8 4.2 Spyder – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Euro-spec Audi R8 Spyder will soon be available with a more powerful version of the automaker’s 4.2-liter V8 engine. The EU5-approved FSI unit gets ten more horses, going from 420 to 430 horsepower. It also gets an energy recuperation system that comes into effect during coasting and braking. The run from zero to 62 miles per hour takes 4.8 seconds, and a 186-mph top speed is possible “in the appropriate circumstances” (i.e., out on the Autobahn).

For the six-speed manual you’ll need £95,545 ($147,759 USD based on current exchange rates), while the not-so-great R-Tronic will require £100,855 ($155,966 USD). The hardtop R8 will also be getting this upgraded engine, and both will be available in January of next year. Don’t worry – the new engine will be coming to the U.S., as well. The press release on Audi UK’s new V8 is after the jump, and high-res photos are in the gallery below.

Gallery: More powerful UK Audi R8 4.2