R8 RWS is the RWD driver's R8 we've always hoped for

Audi introduced the R8 Rear Wheel Series (RWS) today. Only 999 examples of the R8 V10 RWS will be sold, with Spyder and Coupe derivatives both planned; the coupe is 50kg lighter than the quattro version, the Spyder 40kg lighter, due to the lack of a propshaft, multi-plate clutch and centre diff. Both the chassis and handling have been fine-tuned for the RWS version; the control systems allow controlled drifts of the driver chooses “Dynamic” mode and sets the ESC to “Sport”.

Design changes include a matt black grille and matt black air apertures at the front and rear of the car. The upper sideblade of the coupe is finished in gloss black, the lower blade matches the body colour. The RWS is fitted with black-finished, 19in aluminium wheels with a five-spoke design as standard.

The R8 V10 RWS is available to order on Friday, priced from £110,000.

Stephan Winkelmann, MD of Audi Sport, said, “The R8 V10 RWS is made for purists. With it’s mid-mounted V10 engine and rear-wheel drive, it successfully brings the driving concept of our R8 LMS racing car to the streets.”

Audi also unveiled its Aicon concept car, a four-door two-plus-two autonomous vision without steering wheel or pedals, but with a range of 434 miles.

Other stars on the Audi stand include the handsome new A8 executive saloon, a fitting rival to the consummate Mercedes S-Class.