Audi Ireland has announced pricing and equipment details for its mid-engined, high-performance sports car, the all-new Audi R8 Coupe.

The second-generation model of this iconic supercar will be available in Ireland from October 2015, with a starting price of €231,500 for the V10 model; and €263,000 for the V10+. Orders will open in September through Audi Ireland's exclusive R8 retailer and repairer, Audi Centre in Ballsbridge.

The car improves upon its first-generation predecessor in every possible way. With its 5.2 FSI engine, the 610hp R8 V10+ accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 330 km/h.

Thanks to the ground-breaking multi-material Audi Space Frame (ASF) chassis, both the V10 and V10+ models weigh 50kg less than the first-generation R8. This weight reduction comes despite the inclusion of extra class-leading equipment.

The quattro drive system of the R8 has been fully re-developed. The intelligent all-wheel drive software continually distributes torque to where it’s needed resulting in breath taking performance. The extremely dynamic chassis and adjustable electronic stability control (ESC) can be exploited with Audi Drive Select through a choice of four modes (comfort, auto, dynamic & individual).

As standard, the all-new R8 features Audi's quattro drive system, 19" alloys, LED headlights and rear dynamic turn signals.

In the interior, the characteristic element is the monoposto, a large arc in the area around the driver’s seat ensure that the driver experiences the same feeling of sitting in a race car that race drivers enjoy. The new steering wheel design with shift paddles features the dynamic driving controls clustered on satellite-style buttons.

Connectivity is delivered through Audi's innovative digital virtual cockpit display, with MMI navigation+ with touch pad as standard. Leather sports seats ensure comfort on all road surfaces at all speeds.

Christian Gussen, Managing Director of Audi Ireland, said the all-new R8 is "the zenith of Audi's commercial sports car engineering and design."

"The second-generation Audi R8 is the fastest and most powerful commercial sports car that we have ever produced. Combining impressive speed, a powerful, high-performance engine and lightweight design, the all-new R8 is a dynamic, exhilarating drive", he said.