2010 Audi R8 V10 Headed for Detroit

Car and Driver has confirmed Audi plans to introduce the new 2010 Audi R8 V10 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month. Although economic times have lead to Rolls Royce, Ferrari, Land Rover, Mitsubishi, and others to drop out of the NAIAS, Audi is looking to score the most attention at the big show.

A new release of this kind will also be a welcomed distraction for journalists and bloggers covering American automakers talking about a return to profitability.

The new 5.2 liter V10 producing 520 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque will not hurt Audi's intent to turn heads. Audi's new engine will make their sports car more competitve with the likes of Lamborghini, as many Audi R8 coupes with a V8 engine are idling on dealer lots in the states. Quad-exhaust will be gone, with larger exhaust tips coming instead. New, larger wheels, and the brakes to match the power upgrade, are expected.

Their new engine is expected to also be available in the convertible, in addition to the current 420 hp V8. The 2010 Audi R8 V10 coupe is expected upon introduction, while the ragtop is planned for a bow in Europe next fall, and a 2010 debut stateside.