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First Drive: Audi’s R8 V10 RWS shows that the fun doesn’t end without quattro

The R8 V10 RWS is a rear-wheel-drive version of Audi’s range-topping supercar. Jack Evans finds out if the change in drive is a good thing

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What is it?

For as long as we can remember, Audi sports cars have been synonymous with four-wheel-drive. Quattro – the system created by Audi to achieve the best possible traction – has featured in pretty much every high-end performance vehicle it has created, save for this – the R8 RWS.

The RWS lacks the large rear wing of the Plus version
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What’s new?

Quite a lot of the RWS’ components are tried-and-tested in the ‘regular’ R8. For instance, it’s got the same, sonorous naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 and the same seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The RWS does without adjustable dampers, and sits on standard springs too.

The RWS is, in fact, the cheapest R8 in the range
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What’s under the bonnet?

Sat in the middle of the RWS is the beautiful 5.2-litre V10 engine that you’ll find in all R8 cars. It’s one of the best powertrains available in a car on sale today – and is one of the last naturally-aspirated ones too.

Its overall power output of 532bhp is impressive, as is its 539Nm of torque. However, it’s more than just figures – the way this engine sounds is like nothing else. Economy figures are as expected – Audi claims that the RWS will return 22.8mpg on the combined cycle, while emitting a chunky 283g/km CO2.

What’s it like to drive?

The regular R8’s driving experience is dominated by the all-wheel-drive system. It provides security, and the ability to plant the throttle with little worry in all manner of conditions. You may think that the RWS would be the opposite of this, what with all 532bhp being directed at just the rear wheels.

However, that’s not the case.

The RWS is significantly lighter than the regular R8
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How does it look?

The RWS, in our eyes, is one of the prettiest versions of the R8 yet – and it’s because it’s so back-to-basics. For instance, you won’t find a huge rear wing at the rear like you do on the Plus versions, while alloy wheels in a design exclusive to the series really do look the part.

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What’s it like inside?

The interior of the RWS is much like any other R8’s – but that’s no bad thing. It feels incredibly well finished, with plenty of metal trim helping to brighten up the otherwise quite dark cabin. The sports seats provide plenty of support, and there’s plenty of adjustment to be found too – meaning you can get your driving position spot-on.

The interior of the Audi is supremely well made
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What’s the spec like?

The RWS is actually the cheapest R8 in the range, but as you’d expect with any supercar, there’s a vast wealth of technology on board. You get Audi’s excellent Virtual Cockpit infotainment system, as well as a high-definition sound system. Cruise control and front and rear parking sensors come as standard too, though you would expect that.

The large red starter button is a design focus in the cabin
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Verdict

The RWS builds on an excellent platform, and takes things just a little further. It’s lighter, and therefore a little more agile than the standard R8, while the components which matter have remained unchanged. The engine is still a triumph, the gearbox still shifts crisply and the interior is still hugely well-made. Chuck into this the RWS’ lower list price, and it makes for a compelling package – and one which will make you grin from ear to ear each time you get behind the wheel.

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