Audi R8 Competition at the LA Motor Show

The current Audi R8 is more than seven years old, and with a new version just around the corner, the German car maker has shown one last limited edition at the LA Motor Show – set to be the most exciting model yet.

The Audi R8 Competition gets an extra 20bhp over the already potent 542bhp R8 V10 Plus, as well as carbon ceramic brakes and a seven-speed S tronic gearbox. That makes it good for 0-60mph in just 3.2 seconds, and allows it to hit a top speed of 199mph.

Only 60 Audi R8 Competition cars will be made, which will all go directly to the US. If you live over here, you’ll have to make do with the ‘standard’ V10 Plus – or wait for the all-new R8 due next year.

In terms of styling, the R8 Competition takes inspiration from the R8 LMS race car, featuring lightweight carbon fibre detailing and a lower front splitter. There’s a big carbon wing on the back, as well as a set of gloss black wheels and gloss black exhaust pipes.

It's essentially a US-spec version of the R8 LMX, which can't be sold in all US states on account of legislation against the clever laser headlights.

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Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America, said: "The limited-edition Audi R8 competition is the closest road car to our R8 LMS ultra race car that has won virtually every race around the world.”

All 60 US cars will be sold through the Audi Exclusive programme, with buyers able to specify individual interiors and exteriors from a long list of colours and trim options.

Order books will open soon, although prices are yet to be revealed. The first customers should take delivery early next year, mere months before the new R8 model is revealed at the Geneva Motor Show.