A world-class four-ring superexotic
With the introduction of the all-new superexotic R8 sports car, Audi challenges the likes of Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and even Ferrari as the best sports car in the world.
That's a bold statement, to be sure, but spend some time behind its flat-bottomed steering wheel and you'll immediately be convinced this superbly refined, all-wheel drive mid-engine two-seater is one super car.
The R8 is just about perfect, beginning with the striking, distinctive styling that sets it apart in the exclusive $100,000 sports car club. The most arresting features are the contrasting colored "sideblade" air intakes just behind the doors that direct air to cool the engine. If you prefer a single body color, Audi will paint them to match for an extra $2000.
Up front, the look is undeniably Audi with the signature trapezoid found on all models. For the first time, however, Audi mounted its signature four circles on the hood, not the grille.
Under each of the menacing-looking bi-Xenon headlamps is a string of 12 individual jewel-like LED running lights. Better still are the LED tail lamps that seem to sparkle rather than glow.
The engine is set mid-ship behind the seats and just ahead of the rear wheels in a beautiful display that can be viewed through either a window in the cockpit or through the glass rear hatch when standing outside the vehicle. A pair of optional LED spotlights with an on/off switch on the key fob lights the engine compartment for nighttime viewing envy.
Inside, our Daytona Gray Pearl Effect R8 was trimmed in luxuriously comfortable Mustang Brown Nappa leather. While cargo space is limited to a small area behind the seats and a mere 3.5-cubic feet under the hood, my 6-foot-6 frame fit comfortably. There's no cramped feel here, but getting in and out isn't the easiest because the R8 is so low and wide. The big doors help a lot.
The interior is typical Audi - world-class. Controls are trimmed in aluminum and the
thick metal faceplate for the six-speed manual shifter is machined to mimic the pattern of the short throw shifter.
There's a
pair of cup holders
in the center console.
Audi's version of the BMW iDrive, Multi-Media Interface (MMI) controls audio, climate control and other operating functions by way of a dash-mounted video screen.
Power is produced by a 4.2-liter, 420-horsepower V-8 that Audi claims can go from zero to 60 in just 4.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of 187 mph. Sports car snobs will quickly point out there are cars that get to 60 mph quicker, but this car is much more than brute speed. It's more about how the car behaves and treats the driver on a daily basis; it's painted-on-the-road handling, refined ride, superb brakes and overall performance manners.
The sophistication of the Audi Magnetic Ride system that instantly adjusts to the road begs the driver to push the R8 to extremes. I blinked long before the R8 did. The dynamics of this vehicle will corrupt the driver with aerodynamics that have the vehicle performing better the faster you go. No lean, effortless, nothing. The R8 makes you feel like no other vehicle can.
R8 is $109,000 with the manual shifter, $119,000 for the R-tronic six-speed automatic transmission (it's hard to imagine anyone choosing it over the manual shifter).
If there is a downside to the R8 it certainly must be in the amount of attention it generates on the street. The chase started immediately with drivers weaving in and out of traffic on 7th Avenue in Phoenix to get up close to the R8. Cell phone cameras clicked like paparazzi. Drivers with one hand on the wheel and the other hand sticking out the window snapped pictures.
Those without cell phones just smiled and saluted with thumbs-up acknowledgment. I've never driven any vehicle that drew so much attention.
Jointly developed with Italian sports car maker Lamborghini, all R8s are built by hand in Neckarsulm, Germany. Audi can build just ten a day for worldwide consumption. All 200 slated for the U.S. are already sold. Audi says 800 to 1000 will be sent in subsequent years.
Audi execs hint that a V-10 is in the works and a roadster is being considered.
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