Gallery: Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro revealed

Audi's main goal when planning the new R8 Spyder was to create a high-performance open-top sports car and we have to say - they look like they have succeeded.

The engine is Audi's well known 5.2 litre V10 with 40 valves developing 525hp. Acceleration is just amazing – Zero to 100km/h in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 313km/h. Not only is the R8 Spyder a fast open-top sports car but it's also highly equipped with technologies such as: Audi Space Frame (ASF), quattro permanent all-wheel drive, full-LED headlights and an innovative seatbelt microphone.

The electrohydraulic soft top opens and closes in 19 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h. An additional net-like wind deflector comes standard and can be latched into the bulkhead behind the seats in two easy steps. R8 Spyder is uncompromisingly safe. The rollover protection systems consists of two strong, spring-tensioned plates and there are also head/thorax side bags in the backrests protect the passengers in the event of a side impact. Full-size airbags are on standby in the event of a head-on collision and in the event of a rear-end collision, the integral head restraint system reduces the risk of whiplash injuries. The total weight of the sports car is 1720kg.

The open-top two-seater will be launched in Germany in the first quarter of 2010 with a base price of 156,400 euros.