The Audi R8 is the pinnacle of performance, design, and handling. Declared by critics across the board as an iconic modern supercar, the R8's exquisitely designed V10 engine eviscerates the road, delivering an unparalleled driving experience. Although only 12 years into its production, the R8 has seen several design iterations, model versions, and mechanical updates, so as the new model year dawns upon us we thought it was appropriate to revisit the history of the Audi R8. After you finish reading, check out our new R8 inventory here at Audi Hoffman Estates.
First Generation (2006-2015)
Introduced in 2006, the R8 Coupe 4.2 Quattro was based on the design of the Audi Le Mans Quattro concept car, sharing the same chassis of the Lamborghini Gallardo. The initial production run featured the engine of the Audi RS4, a 4.2L V8 producing 417 HP and capable of 0-60 MPH in 4.3 seconds. The engine was offered with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed R tronic® transmission. In its early years, the R8 was lauded equally for its performance and its reliability in both professional racing and consumer-facing forms.
New Engine
For the 2009 model, an optional 525 HP 5.2L V10 was added by Audi. This new engine drew even higher praise from industry insiders. Full LED headlights came with the addition of the new engine, a striking new look at the time.
Addition of Spyder
The R8 Spyder was first showcased in early 2009 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but wasn't released until late 2010/early 2011 with two models: the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro and the Spyder 4.2.
Redesign
In 2012, Audi put forth a slightly redesigned version of the R8, along with the R8 GT, a lightweight, racing-oriented 560 HP version of the 5.2L V10. Along with the performance upgrade, the GT featured weight-saving carbon fiber throughout the interior and exterior.
Second Generation (2015-Present)
The second generation of the Audi R8 was revealed at the 2015 International Geneva Motor Show. It arrived in showrooms in early 2017. The R8 offers Coupé, Spyder and a limited edition rear-wheel-drive variants. The naturally aspirated 5.2L V10, seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch transmission, and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system come standard. This engine appears in two states: a 532 HP and 398 lb.-ft. of torque standard, and a tuned 601 HP and 413 lb.-ft. of torque version in the V10 Plus model.
