AUDI R8

Overview

Although it shares its powertrain and mechanicals with the Lamborghini Huracán, the 2020 Audi R8 is less sharp-edged and surprisingly easy to live with day to day. Behind the passenger compartment is a raucous V-10 engine that makes as much as 602 horsepower depending on which version you choose and literally howls when prodded. Acceleration is appropriately expeditious but the R8's ride and handling favors a more comfortable nature, making it less competent for track days but appreciated on road trips. The R8's interior is nearly as striking as its bodywork, with an all-digital gauge display, soft leather with optional quilted stitching, and real carbon-fiber trim.

What's New for 2020?

After not being sold for the 2019 model year, the R8 is back with sharper exterior styling and a revamped lineup, consisting of standard coupe and convertible (Spyder) models and Performance variants of each.

All models are powered by a V-10 engine mounted behind the passenger compartment and come with both all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; in standard models the V-10 engine makes 562 horsepower, while Performance models make a hearty 602.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

• Coupe: $172,850
• Spyder: $185,050
• Performance Coupe: $198,850
• Performance Spyder: $211,050

With a car as flashy as the R8, we'd suggest going with the Spyder model. After all, with the top down, onlookers will be able to get a better look at the lucky dog behind the wheel. Choosing between the standard and Performance models is a tougher decision.

On the one hand, even the 562-hp version of the V-10 engine provides incredible acceleration and the same bellowing wail as the 602-hp version. On the other hand, rolling up to the next Cars and Coffee event with the ultimate R8 might feel just that little bit more awesome.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The R8's V-10 engine is offered in two strengths, both potent enough to knock the wind out of unsuspecting passengers and both capable of searing your eardrums with their otherworldly exhalations. The R8's seven-speed dual-clutch automatic isn't exactly the smoothest gearbox and occasionally it downshifts too abruptly and perhaps too deeply, causing neck-snapping acceleration followed by an almost immediate upshift to a higher gear. The base R8 comes standard with an adaptive suspension, while Performance models are fitted with a more aggressive, fixed-damper setup. Both soak up bumps admirably and provide a comfortable ride that you could tolerate without fatigue on long trips. The R8's supple nature comes with a drawback, however: In full-attack mode, it simply doesn't handle corners as confidently as its rivals, and sometimes it feels more unsettled than you'd expect from a supercar. The standard steering setup is direct and relays information from the road to the driver's hands with only a mild filter.