The new R8, in its proper next-generation avatar, has gone all-out to match its more expensive bullish designer Italian cousin, Lamborghini Huracan.

At first glance, there is the obvious addition of sharper edges and fewer curves. It’s a swoopier design and the wider, bolder front grille looks more intimidating, especially in rear-view mirrors; more so, with the piercing headlamps with LED eyebrows that make those ahead believe they’ve angered the car. The R8 trademark side blades are retained somewhat. Under the skin, too, there’s a lot different — primarily, the aluminium space frame that now has carbon-fibre sections in critical areas to reduce mass and improve strength and rigidity. There’s also a revised four-wheel drivetrain.