Next Car: 2010 Audi R8 Roadster

What it is: Audi will launch two variations of the two-seat supercar. First up is a more powerful 5.2-liter V-10, followed by a roadster R8.

Why it’s important: A powerful V-10 moves the R8 into the stratosphere where the other big mid-engined players, the Lamborghini Gallardo and Ferrari F430, reside. As far as the roadster version goes, most of the R8’s competition already offer an open-air option.

Platform: Lightly modified version of the R8’s aluminum architecture to deal with the extra power and lack of a roof.

Noteworthy technology: Audi’s V-10, although similar in every way to the Gallardo’s 5.2-liter V-10, will not be developed by Lamborghini. The R8’s Audi-engineered V-10 will have fewer horses than the Lambo’s 552 but more torque.

Competition: BMW M6, Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes-Benz SL-class, Porsche 911 Turbo.

Estimated arrival and cost: Production of the V-10–powered R8 begins in March 2009. The R8 roadster will debut that fall at the Frankfurt auto show and will go on sale in the spring of 2010. The V-10 should command $150,000, and the roadster will come in at $130,000.