Audi has introduced the R8 RWD model line with an exclusive 2021 R8 Panther Edition. And you know what? It is unique to the U.S. market which something of a rarity.
Limited to just 30 units, the 2021 Audi R8 Panther Edition boasts unique trim details including 20-inch 5-double-spoke-dynamic design milled wheels in matte black with red trim.
The first units available in the R8 rear-wheel-drive model line, all R8 Panther Editions will rock Audi exclusive Panther Black crystal effect paint, carbon exterior accents, and a full Audi exclusive interior.
Here’s a list of the standard features that come with each 2021 Audi R8 Panther Edition:
• Audi exclusive Panther Black crystal effect paint with carbon exterior mirror housings
• 20” 5-double-spoke-dynamic design wheels, milled cut, finished in matte black with red trim, with summer performance tires
• Audi exclusive full leather black interior with Crimson red stitching
• Racing shell seats in Crimson red fine Nappa leather with power height and manual fore/aft seat adjustment
• Sport exhaust system which amplifies the full bodied sound of the V10 engine and can be adjusted using the dedicated satellite button on the steering wheel or via the Audi drive select setting
• Alcantara® covered gear selector and parcel shelf
• Diamond stitched Alcantara® headliner
• Audi exclusive steering wheel in leather/Alcantara® with crimson red 12 o’clock marker with four satellite buttons – engine Start/Stop, Audi drive select, Performance Mode selector, and Sport exhaust.
• Audi exclusive R8 embroidered floor mats with Crimson red leather edging
• Black Audi rings and badges
• Carbon fiber exterior mirror housings
The R8 Panther Edition further touts LED headlights and LED taillights with dynamic turn signals, boatload of carbon. Fiber detailing, Audi virtual cockpit, Audi smartphone interface, Audi phone box with signal booster, MMI navigation plus, 550 watts Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring 13 speakers, and illuminated door sill inlays.
Perhaps, more importantly is, it has a specially tuned chassis for rear-wheel drive. The R8 Panther Edition is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2L FSI V10 engine that produces 532 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque good for 0-60 in a scant 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 201 mph.
The 2021 Audi R8 Panther Edition will be available at select dealerships in stateside this month with an MSRP of US$183,300.
All images courtesy of Audi of America.