The Audi R8 is perhaps one of the best rated exotic cars in the market. How can you go wrong with the best looking car with the best features? It even ranks well in reliability and safety in its class.
Performance
This car was first introduced in 2008 and has been improving in design ever since. This is Audi’s first attempt in making an exotic car and the critics love how the car company is keeping up with its goal. They exceeded everyone’s expectations with this model though. However, the critics have longed for a better, stronger engine: more brute force. So to grant these critics’ wishes, Audi revamped the R8 with a 525 horsepower v10 engine just like the 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo. With more power, the R8 is better than ever.
Exterior & Interior
It has been said that the R8 would be a good driving experience, and true enough; the critics praised the car for its excellent exterior design, speed, comfort and handling dynamics. Performance-wise, the R8 delivers. It’s fast and smooth on the road, but at the same time, it is comfortable. It is very comfortable that you might want to use it for your everyday errands. It is very user friendly, and the additional power is like cherry on top. There are two models: automatic and manual transmission. The critics have mixed reviews regarding the two models. Most prefer the manual transmission but they say that the automatic transmission is smoother and more stable. It’s a personal choice.
The R8’s interior is also garnering good reviews because of its roomy cabins, comfortable seats and its solid build. The car is only limited to two passengers which is expected of a sports car. The interior features of this car come with the standard issue effects, but the navigation is not at par with the American versions. The cargo room is limited and the sun-visor can be hard to reach. The exterior design of the R8 is well-loved, and it strength lies on its futuristic design. The detailing is superb, the graphics are aggressive: it’s a car gorgeous looking car and it lives up to its look.
Safety
The R8 is not tested for safety and crash testing but it features standard safety equipment. It has an all-wheel drive system and has an electronic stabilization program. This is waiting for Federal Safety Test or at least an insurance company safety test. The critics are not very happy about the visibility though. It has blind spots, especially for tall people because the roof rolls down quite quickly that you have to duck to see.
It is difficult to see the rear too, because of the bulk of the engine, which is installed at the back of the vehicle. There is a backup camera that can help though. It is an optional feature. The reliability of the care is not that bad. It is covered by a 50000 miles / Five years basic warranty (whatever comes first) and a special 12 years anti-corrosion protection as well as having a 2 year 24 hour roadside assistance.
Reliability
The Audi R8 is a good, sturdy and beautiful sports car. It runs smooth; it is fast, reliable with because of its Bavarian quality and is both beautiful and functional. It is also very comfortable. This is a very good sports car. A Bavarian hunk with an Italian soul, this car is excellent but not perfect.
Collectors and car aficionados love the Audi R8’s sporty design. The car’s big cabin also offer comfort than the other cars in this same class, like the Porsche 911 Turbo (MSRP $ 143,800; 16 city / 23 hwy), Mercedes Benz SL63 AMG (MSRP $ 145,200; 11 city / 18 hwy), and the Lamborghini LP560-4 (MSRP $ 221,600; 12 city / 20 hwy).
Overall Rating
What others say:
“Teutonic handling perfection meets its dream match in the 2011 Audi R8’s lusty, Italian-engineered V-10 heart.”Car Connection
“The R8 offers head-turning style, pulse-quickening performance, and superb build quality, yet is quiet and comfortable enough for daily commuting.”Consumer Guide
“Acceleration and braking capabilities are impressive, and the ride is very firm but not too punishing. Steering is communicative and responsive, and the car is extremely nimble.”Consumer Report
“Potent engine choices; slick manual shifter; comfortable cabin; easy to drive.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Luxury Sports Car AWD | Base Price: $114,200.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 12 city / 19 hwy |
| Length: 174.6 in. (443.5 cm) | Width: 79.9 in. (203 cm) |
| Height: 49.3 in. (125.2 cm) | Curb Weight: 3715 lbs (1685 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (265 cm) | Ground Clearance: 4.33 in. (11 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 3.53 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 2 |
| Engine: 5.2L DOHC V10 | Displacement: 317.6 cu in (5204 cc) |
| Horsepower: 525 hp | Max RPM: 8000 rpm |
| Torque: 391 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds | 1/4 Mile: NA |
| Option:R8 4.2L | MSRP: $114,200; MPG: 13 city / 21 hwy |
