2017 Audi R8 Review: Everyday Supercar Perfection?
The 2017 Audi R8 represents the perfect balance between exotic supercar thrills and everyday usability. Sharing its platform and screaming 5.2L V10 with the Lamborghini Huracán, the redesigned R8 delivers 540-610 horsepower while maintaining Audi's signature refinement and quattro all-wheel-drive confidence.--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Key Takeaways:
- Exotic Performance: 0-60 mph in 3.2-3.5 seconds depending on model
- Daily Usability: More comfortable than most supercars
- Technical Sophistication: Advanced quattro all-wheel drive system
- Stunning Design: Aggressive yet elegant styling
- Value Proposition: More affordable than comparable Italian exotics
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Model Lineup & Pricing
The 2017 R8 offers two performance levels of its naturally aspirated 5.2L V10:
| Model | Power | 0-60 mph | Top Speed | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R8 V10 | 540 hp | 3.5 sec | 199 mph | $162,900 |
| R8 V10 Plus | 610 hp | 3.2 sec | 205 mph | $189,900 |
Key standard features include:
Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
- Magnetic Ride adaptive suspension
- Carbon fiber reinforced polymer chassis
- 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch on Plus)
- Full LED exterior lighting
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The R8 Plus adds performance enhancements:
- Fixed-back sport seats
- Carbon ceramic brakes
- Dynamic steering system
- More aggressive aerodynamics
- Exterior Design & Aerodynamics
The 2017 R8's redesign maintains the iconic silhouette while improving aerodynamics:
Design Highlights:
- Sleeker, more angular front fascia
- Revised side blades (now split design)
- Standard full-LED headlights with laser light option
- Engine bay visible through rear glass
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Aerodynamic improvements include:
Active rear spoiler (extends at 75 mph)
- Flat underbody with diffuser
- Improved cooling ducts
- Optional carbon fiber aero components
Dimensionally, the R8 compares to rivals:
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| Measurement | Audi R8 | Lamborghini Huracán | McLaren 570S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 174.3 in | 175.6 in | 178.3 in |
| Width | 76.4 in | 75.7 in | 75.4 in |
| Height | 48.8 in | 45.9 in | 47.1 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,594 lbs | 3,135 lbs | 3,314 lbs |
Performance & Driving Dynamics
The R8's 5.2L V10 delivers an unforgettable experience:
- Naturally aspirated 5.2L V10 (shared with Huracán)
- 540 hp @ 7,800 rpm / 398 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm (V10)
- 610 hp @ 8,250 rpm / 413 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm (V10 Plus)
- 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
- quattro all-wheel drive with rear torque vectoring
Driving modes transform character:
- Comfort: Smooth shifts, softer suspension
- Auto: Balanced daily driving
- Dynamic: Sharper responses, louder exhaust
- Individual: Customizable parameters
- The R8 excels in real-world driving:
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- Linear power delivery with thrilling top-end rush
- Improved transmission behavior over previous gen
- Confident all-weather traction from quattro system
- Surprisingly compliant ride in Comfort mode
Performance comparisons:
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| Model | 0-60 mph | 1/4 Mile | Skidpad | Braking 60-0 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R8 V10 | 3.5 sec | 11.5 sec @ 124 mph | 1.01g | 97 ft |
| R8 V10 Plus | 3.2 sec | 11.1 sec @ 128 mph | 1.05g | 94 ft |
| Huracán LP610-4 | 2.9 sec | 10.8 sec @ 131 mph | 1.07g | 96 ft |
Interior & Technology
The 2017 R8's cabin represents a massive upgrade:
Interior Highlights:
- Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
- High-quality materials throughout
- Improved ergonomics over previous gen
- Surprisingly good outward visibility
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Technology features include:
12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit display
- MMI navigation plus with touchpad
- Bang & Olufsen sound system (optional)
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (optional)
Practical considerations:
- Front Storage: 3.5 cu ft (frunk)
- Rear Storage: Small parcel shelf behind seats
- Entry/Exit: Wide door openings for a supercar
- Seating: Comfortable for long distances (standard seats)
Ownership Experience
The R8 offers surprising practicality for a supercar:
Ownership Advantages:
- 4-year/50,000-mile warranty
- 1-year/10,000-mile included maintenance
- Better dealer network than exotic brands
- Higher production volume than competitors
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Considerations:
- Premium fuel required
- Expensive tires and brakes
- Limited cargo capacity
- High insurance costs
Real-world fuel economy:
- EPA Rating: 14/22/17 mpg (city/hwy/combined)
- Observed: 12-15 mpg in aggressive driving
- Highway: Up to 24 mpg at steady speeds
The R8's daily usability makes it stand out:
- Magnetic Ride suspension handles rough roads
- Good forward visibility for a low-slung car
- Quieter cabin than most supercars
- Available parking sensors and camera
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Final Verdict
The 2017 Audi R8 succeeds as:
- The most livable exotic supercar
- A thrilling yet refined driving experience
- A technological showcase for Audi
- A relative value in the supercar segment
Potential buyers should consider:
- Less raw than some competitors
- Heavier than Italian rivals
- Still expensive to own and maintain
For enthusiasts who want exotic car performance without exotic car compromises, the R8 represents an outstanding choice. It delivers nearly all the thrills of its Lamborghini cousin while being significantly easier to live with on a daily basis.
The 2017 Audi R8 proves you don't need to sacrifice comfort and usability for supercar performance. With its glorious V10 engine, stunning design, and surprising practicality, it sets a new standard for what an everyday exotic can be.
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