The 2023 Audi R8 is the end of the line for the glorious naturally aspirated 10-cylinder-powered supercar, and its farewell is likely to be marked by a special-edition model. Audi recently announced updates for nearly all of its 2023 models but curiously left the R8 (and a select few other models) off the list, offering only a vague promise to follow up with separate statements.
But we know Audi is sunsetting the gas-powered V10 because it’s told us so. Executives have telegraphed the current R8’s end for several years, as the brand moves purposefully toward an all-electric future. The R8’s successor, whatever its eventual name, is expected sometime in the next two to three years and will use fully electric power.
Rumors circulated that the outgoing R8 could use a hybrid V8, perhaps to extend its life as a bridge to a full EV. That seems unlikely with a successor on the near horizon, though. For its 2023 swan song, a special-edition R8 might be badged as a GT model, or perhaps an RS, the current designation reserved for Audi’s top performers. It could make at least 630 horsepower, the same amount this engine generates in the Lamborghini Huracan (the current R8 tops out at 602 hp), with an exterior bedecked with all manner of carbon-fiber air ducts, winglets, and spoilers.
What’s certain is that it won’t stick around long. We’d expect to see one last lap of the gas-powered R8, with arrival late this year as a 2023 model. After it’s pulled into the pits, we’d expect to see Audi’s all-electric supercar debut in 2024.
Audi R8 V10 Performance delivers the performance expected of an exotic sports car. Acceleration is otherworldly, reaching 60 mph in only 3.0 seconds. Handling is also unflappable, and the brakes are consistent and trustworthy.
How comfortable is the R8? Comfort doesn’t suffer as a result of the R8’s impressive performance capabilities. The ride quality is appropriately stiff but not jarring. It has just enough compliance to filter out harsh impacts, and the standard R8’s adaptive suspension should give an even broader range. The interior is also praiseworthy for its ability to keep road and wind noise at bay, allowing you to enjoy the glorious V10 growl.
We only knock the R8 Performance for the sports seats that have no seatback adjustments. The side bolstering is also a bit too aggressive, which could be problematic for wider-bodied passengers. The seats in the base R8 are more accommodating but slightly less sportyHow’s the interior? The sleek, understated design blends with high technology for a modern cabin that’s easy to acclimate to. Getting in doesn’t require any contortions, but the low seats and roofline, combined with a wide side sill, will require a bit more effort from taller occupants. For the average-size driver, the aggressive seats and cockpit will fit like a tailored suit, but larger occupants might feel as if things have shrunk a bit in the wash.
The R8 gives the sensation of a more spacious coupe, with a simple dash and no central infotainment screen. Functions typically operated through touchscreens are moved to the instrument panel and controlled by numerous steering wheel controls.
How’s the tech? Audi’s MMI infotainment system remains one of the best in the industry for its wide array of functions and ease of use. Some people, though, maybe initially thrown off by having almost all functions run through the instrument panel instead of secondary screens. Some of the more advanced safety features are absent, but in an engaging sports car like this, they’re not missed.
How’s the storage? Sports cars aren’t regarded for their practicality, and mid-engine cars typically come up shorter than others in this area. Cargo room and interior storage are limited in the R8, but there’s enough space to stow bags for a weekend getaway for two.
The narrow but deep front trunk holds about 8 cubic feet and can accommodate a small carry-on suitcase or a couple of duffel bags. There is also a narrow shelf behind the seats, but it’s not quite as accommodating as the one in the Porsche 911. Interior storage is scarce, with a few small bins and shallow pockets to store your items.
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates fuel economy at 15 mpg combined. We averaged 19.9 mpg on our 115-mile mixed driving evaluation route. That’s a good sign, but driving efficiently requires extraordinary restraint (our overall average was a more dismal 13.3 mpg). Other sports cars are more frugal with fuel.
Is the R8 a good value? The R8 can cost as much as a nice condo. But as a wise person once said, "You can sleep in a car, but you can’t drive a house." What you get for the money is one of the most technologically advanced sports cars that’ll make you feel like a million bucks. That’s a great ROI.
All materials are top-shelf, and the R8 feels as if it was carved out of a single block of aluminum. Every button and knob has a solid weight and movement to it, which showcases the best of what Audi can do.
The Audi R8 may get points deducted for convenience and seat comfort, but the payoff in performance and entertainment far outweigh those factors. Sports cars like this are built to exhilarate, and the R8 delivers with a heady dose of acceleration and ultra-confident handling.
The Audi R8 is more of a stealth fighter among its flashier exotic kin, even with its 10-cylinder engine exposed under glass. Its design looks refined and purposeful, and the R8 would be equally in its element parked in front of an opera house or rolling through the paddock of a racetrack.
If you’re the collecting type, get whatever Audi decides to call its final limited-edition model. It’s bound to be an appreciating asset. Otherwise, if you only want to get in on the truly special specimen that is the V10 engine before the doors close, go for the R8 V10 Performance RWD. You get the glorious 10-cylinder chorus along with the rear-drive model’s more playful handling. It costs less than its all-wheel-drive counterpart too.
Audi’s halo car, the R8, could get the third generation in 2023. The latest from the rumor mill announces a V8-powered next-generation R8, which would be an interesting appearance in the range, but not something impossible. Moreover, the alleged next-gen R8 would also be offered in an electric version. Those of you who still remember the first-generation R8 knows that the car came with a naturally-aspirated V8 unit, which was then shelved when the second-generation model appeared.
The 4.2-liter V8 mill was ditched in favor of the V10 that was introduced while the car was still in its first generation. The V10 is still available in the range, but do not expect it to last forever, as it will be a struggle to make it comply with future emissions regulations in the EU.
Well, according to German media, 2023 will bring us a third generation of the R8, which would come with a 690 horsepower (700 PS), twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V8 unit. As Auto Bild notes, that unit would come from the Urus, and it would get hybrid assistance to allow it to reach the mentioned figures.
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