Although the Audi R8 was first launched less than 10 years ago, it feels like it has been around for much longer. Now in its second-generation, there has been a lot of hype leading up to its launch and we are about to give you five reasons why said launch should be so highly anticipated.
Rivalling the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo S, McLaren 570S and AMG GT, the R8 certainly has its work cut out for it.
But it’s a car that looks like a rip-roaring, mischievous version of the Audi TT and it has a supercar engine – what’s not to like?
Virtual cockpit
A design study that was first premiered on the new TT, Audi’s virtual cockpit is basically a 21st century interpretation of the classic dial and toggles interior.
Unique additions to this virtual cockpit include digital readouts on the circular air-vents, which eliminate the need for a separate climate control display, and a large infotainment screen located behind the steering wheel, meaning you don’t have to take your eyes off the road.
When sitting inside, you really do feel like you are sat in a part of the future.
Quattro
Audi is renowned for its competent all-wheel drive system and the R8 is no different. Offering grip that seemingly knows no limits, the R8’s Quattro system can now deploy up to 100 per cent of power to either the front or rear wheels.
This Quattro system really comes into its own when cornering, allowing the car to remain completely planted when going into even the sharpest of bends.
Comfort mode
Even though the R8 is a supercar, Audi have always boasted how it can be driven on a day-to-day basis as a ‘normal’ car. Well, Comfort mode helps you do exactly that.
Enable Dynamic mode and the R8 is a beast, however, when in Comfort mode, the exhaust flaps are closed and the R8 can smoothly cruise along, so no need to wake the neighbours.
Slick auto gearbox
The R8 used to offer both manual and automatic transmissions, but now it’s just auto that remains. This is due to a lack of demand for the manual, but once you drive the new seven-speed S tronic gearbox, you will wonder why anyone would even want a manual.
In fact, you may even find it difficult to match the slick switch capabilities of the auto ‘box.
It is very fast
The V8 engine is no more, now the entry-level unit is a 5.2-litre V10. Producing 533bhp, the new R8 can reach a top speed of 204mph, which makes it the fastest Audi in history.
It can also complete the 0-124mph sprint in a mere 9.9 seconds and the 0-62mph sprint in 3.2 seconds.
