Frankfurt Show 2009 Highlights: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder

We've seen it several times in prototype form running around Europe, now we finally have the first official photos of the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro in advance of its Frankfurt show reveal.

Since it will initially be sold only as a rendition of the current 5.2 FSI quattro, the car features the requisite beautifully crafted LED head and taillight fixtures. Its nose wears the distinct two tier gills inside each lower front intake rather than the triple set adorning the 4.2. Also distinguishing its V-10 trim are twin oval tail pipes, a more sculpted under diffuser, and unique 19-in. wheels. As expected, the Spyder loses the prominent side blades found on the hard top R8s. Our intel and spy shots indicate the car will utilize a soft top canvas roof instead of a hard top setup.

Under its slotted engine cover resides the same 525-hp 5.2L V-10 from its fixed roof sibling. It sends a thrusting 391 pound feet of torque to all four wheels and is handled by either a gated six-speed manual or six-speed sequential R tronic transmission.

Thanks to: Motor Trend