The Audi R8 debuted for the 2008 model year. It is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that utilizes direct injection to produce 420 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices are a standard six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed “R Tronic” sequential-shifting manual with an automatic mode. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system that has been specially tuned for the R8 to deliver a decidedly rear-wheel-biased power delivery.
As with most vehicles that have the engine mounted behind the driver, the R8 possesses an abbreviated nose that is adorned with the current corporate Audi grille and bi-xenon headlamps. The exotic look of the R8 is further enhanced by a series of 12 LED lights that underscores the headlamp housings and act as daytime running lights. The styling of the aluminum body consists of chiseled flanks that lead your eye to the “sideblades” that highlight the mid-mounted engine. The rear styling is accented by a glass engine cover and additional use of LED lighting.
Standard equipment on the Audi R8 is comprehensive, with only a short list of available options. Standard features include active dampers, 19-inch alloy wheels and power and heated leather/Alcantara sport seats. Major options include a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, navigation, upgraded leather upholstery and different finishes for the sideblades.
In reviews, we’ve found the R8 sublimely balanced in terms of handling. This is one of those rare vehicles with enough straight-line traction and cornering grip to match its high-performance engine, so the Audi’s V8 actually feels less powerful than it is. It’s also a dignified sports car, mercifully free of those elements that make other supercars impossibly taxing in real-world use. It doesn’t have goofy scissor doors, and 6-footers will fit comfortably with room to spare. The Audi R8 even rides astonishingly well, thanks to its two-mode adaptive dampers. Meanwhile, the interior is typically Audi, with solid controls and an ergonomic design.
Audi plans to import only a limited number of R8s into the United States each year. As to be expected, demand has currently outstripped supply. However, for those lucky owners who have the financial means to acquire one, Audi has produced a vehicle that proudly lives up to the heritage of its Auto Union badge.
