By Sky Motoring
14 January 2008
Audi R8 V12 TDI
The R8 V12 TDI is just one of the many diesel-powered cars to be shown in the traditionally petrol-only US.
It uses a version of the 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V12 diesel first seen in the Q7 SUV in which it produces 500bhp and 738lb ft of torque, compared to 414bhp and 317lb ft for the current 4.2-litre petrol V8. The TDI represents the third model in the R8 range with a 5-litre V10 petrol also confirmed. Despite the extra weight, the huge reserves of power and, more importantly, torque will see the diesel head the range in terms of performance as well price when sales are anticipated to start some time in 2009.
Lexus LF-A Roadster
The Lexus LF-A Roadster was just about the only surprise car at Detroit with the media embargo remaining intact until the covers came off. A coupe version of the LF-A has been doing the rounds at numerous motor shows although the production version remains elusive.
Like the coupe, the LF-A Roadster features a high-revving 5-litre V10 engine with “more than 500bhp” while the carbon-fibre and aluminium chassis ensures that the removal of the roof doesn’t compromise rigidity.
We really hope that this is the last time that the LF-A appears in ‘concept’ guise as the suspense is killing us.
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