without the driver needing to touch the accelerator.

Under full throttle, vast amounts of air are gulped through the car's intakes, creating a dramatic roar in the cabin. But whatever the engine lacks in aural appeal, it more than makes up for with raw power.

Why has VW-owned Audi done it? Bigger picture theorists suggest that Audi is using the R8's status to give the V12 diesel the credibility it needs to be fitted to ultra luxury cars within the VW group - including Bentley, Lamborghini and even Bugatti.

One thing is certain, though: given this car's huge performance, its status as the world's first true diesel supercar and its spectacular design, there will be no shortage of drivers desperate to get behind the wheel.