Audi of America has established prices for the limited-production 2012 Audi R8 GT starting at $196,800 at the launch of sales in the U.S. market. Only 333 Audi R8 GT models will be produced worldwide, with 90 slated for U.S. buyers.
The 2012 R8 GT receives significant exterior modifications, and it is powered by a modified 5.2-liter V10 FSI engine that produces 560hp – 35php more than the R8 Coupe 5.2 quattro and the R8 Spyder 5.2 quattro. The GT employs the R-tronic sequential manual transmission. This pairing produces a top track speed of 199mph, and a 0-62mph time of 3.6sec. Overall, the Audi R8 GT will provide drivers with high lateral acceleration and a low center of gravity.
The signature Audi ASF lightweight construction of the Audi R8 GT, combined with extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber body parts reduces the weight by approximately 180lbs. Key carbon fiber components are the rear hatch, spoiler and diffuser.
The Audi R8 GT continues the heritage of mid-engine configuration with quattro all-wheel drive that has distinguished all R8 variants. The axle load distribution of the R8 GT will be 43/57 front/rear. Integrated into the front differential is axle-load-optimized torque split with self-locking differential in the rear axle.
The newest member of the Audi sports car family was inspired by the Audi R8 LMS GT3 racecar. To convey its limited-edition nature, the Audi R8 GT will come with a variety of exclusive interior and exterior touches. Each car will have a numbered gearshift knob. The instrument cluster will be white with the R8 GT logo and the interior will feature carbon matte inlays. The seats, headliner, steering wheel and handbrake lever will be black Alcantara with contrast stitching. Door sills will include aluminum inserts with the R8 GT logo.
On the exterior, the grille, distinctive side blade and other trim parts will come in exclusive matte finishes. The Audi R8 GT will also be available in two exclusive new colors.
Optional carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic brakes are available to provide superb fading resistance even in racetrack conditions. Brake calipers with a red anodized finish come with the ceramic brakes. A 12-speaker, 495-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system is also available. The Audi R8 GT offers other trim and wheel options to personalize the full array of standard features.