It's been over two years since Audi unveiled the R8 sportscar the Paris Auto Show. Since then its been a hot seller, but in the idea of ‘if it ain't new, it through’ Audi is going debut some awaited versions of the R8 in 2009.

Although some car companies are pulling away from January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Audi will use that venue to debut the V10 version. The new engine is expected to make 520 horsepower (up 100 hp from the V8). The rumor is that the arrival of the V10 (and later V12 diesel) will spell the beginning of the end for V8 powered R8s.

Later next year, the Spyder version should make an appearance. The fully convertible version (or still possibly a targa) of the R8 should be in European showrooms by the end of 2009. It will likely arrive first with the V8 engine of the standard R8 with a possible upgrade to the V10 in the future. North America may have to wait a until 2010 for the drop top because the coupe is selling stronger here, and so Audi doesn't need as much sales help in the U.S.

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