Our spies have snapped something that appears to be a more hardcore Audi R8.

It was spotted at – no prizes for guessing – the Nürburgring, and looks very much like an R8 V10 supercar with extra aerodynamic adornments.

The key visual changes include a rather unsubtle TT RS-style rear wing, a stocky rear diffuser and small aero-shaping blades attached to the front bumper. Together they look set to improve downforce and traction on the R8. Racing car-esque bonnet catches complete the exterior teasing of a potential Clubsport model.

It’s likely that the changes will be akin to those seen on the mk1 Audi TT Sport, with a bit more power over the existing 518bhp 5.2-litre V10 and lighter weight achieved by the loss of luxury equipment.

A rear-wheel drive special edition like the LP550-2 Balboni version of the R8’s cousin, the Lamborghini Gallardo, is unlikely due to Audi’s four-wheel-drive Quattro heritage. An R8 Clubsport would no doubt adequately take the fight to its relation, though…

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