2021 Audi R8 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The Audi R8 took the world by storm when it arrived in 2008. In the intervening 13 years, it’s seen a second generation and several performance advances. For the 2021 model year, it gets a few important updates.
As before, Audi offers the R8 in both fixed-roof Coupe and soft-top Spyder models. Whichever one you get, you’ll be treated to a mid-mounted 5.2-liter V10 and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Last year, Audi offered its Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) as the volume option in V10 and V10 Performance trims, with a limited number of special-edition rear-wheel drive (RWD) models. This year, the base V10 disappears, to be replaced by a new V10 RWD trim. V10 Performance models boast 602 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque and can rocket to 60 mph as quickly as 3.2 seconds for the Coupe and 3.3 for the Spyder. Meanwhile, V10 RWD models are slightly less powerful, at 532 hp and 398 lb-ft. Nevertheless, the V10 RWD Coupe reaches 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, while the V10 RWD Spyder does it in 3.7 seconds. The top speed is as high as 201 mph.
The V10 RWD R8 comes standard with keyless access and start, LED headlights, 14-way power seats 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, leather, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, and an adaptive sport suspension. You can tack on Audi’s laser headlights, extra leather, a 550-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, 18-way seats, and illuminated door sill inlays. Carbon Exterior Package. Meanwhile, the V10 Performance model comes with all standard and optional features from the V8 RWD, a carbon spoiler, and a fixed-damper suspension system. Newly available for the V10 Performance Is an R8 Performance Design Package, bundling Mercato blue diamond contrast stitching, leather and Alcantara upholstery, and blue ceramic brake calipers.
In keeping with most supercars, there’s not much in the way of safety on the R8. The only things of note you’ll find are a rear-view camera, reversing sensors, and adaptive cruise control. What you won’t find are crash tests from either the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but again, that’s not unusual for high-end cars like this one.
The R8 remains a formidable supercar with a new, purer RWD option that’s here to stay.
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2021 Audi R8 Pricing
Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Voice recognition audio system · USB auxiliary audio input · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Remote CD changer location: behind seat · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 5 · 140 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 14.4 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 14.0 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: leather · Dash trim: leather · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: leather · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with panic alarm · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: under seat · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 18
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.59
Engine
Alternator: 210 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Battery rating: 420 CCA
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: wing · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rocker panel color: black · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment: Audi MMI Connect
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: low washer fluid
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: wiper activated · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 18
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: door unlock · Parking sensors: rear · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: 4-way power lumbar · Upholstery: premium leather
Spare Tire
Kit: tire sealant
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.7
Suspension
Driver Adjustable Suspension: ride control · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Front shock type: monotube · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: double wishbone · Rear shock type: monotube · Stabilizer bar(s): rear · Suspension control: magnetic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with read function · Navigation app: INRIX Traffic · Navigation system: with voice recognition · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: myAudi with Audi connect · Smart device app function: vehicle location
Tires
Type: summer performance
Tires and Rims
Wheels: painted aluminum
Wheels
Wheel locks: front and rear · Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive · Power windows: remote operation
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Side airbags: front with head protection chambers
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Voice recognition audio system · USB auxiliary audio input · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · HD radio · Remote CD changer location: behind seat · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 5 · 140 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 14.4 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 14.0 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: leather · Dash trim: leather · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: leather · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): USB front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: in dash · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 18
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.59
Engine
Alternator: 210 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Battery rating: 420 CCA
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rocker panel color: black · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment: Apply CarPlay ready
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: wiper activated · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: auto-dimming
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 18
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: power
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Parking sensors: front · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: premium leather
Spare Tire
Kit: tire sealant
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.7
Suspension
Driver Adjustable Suspension: ride control · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Front shock type: monotube · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: double wishbone · Rear shock type: monotube · Stabilizer bar(s): front · Suspension control: magnetic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with read function · Navigation app: INRIX Traffic · Navigation system: with voice recognition · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: myAudi with Audi connect · Smart device app function: vehicle location
Tires
Type: summer performance
Tires and Rims
Wheels: painted aluminum
Wheels
Wheel locks: front and rear · Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing · Power windows: with safety reverse
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Voice recognition audio system · Auxiliary audio input: jack · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Remote CD changer location: behind seat · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 5 · 140 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 15.0 · Front brakes: carbon ceramic disc · Rear brake diameter: 14.0 · Rear brakes: carbon ceramic disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: carbon · Dash trim: leather · Door sill trim: carbon · Door trim: carbon · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: alloy
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with panic alarm · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: phone · Storage: in dash · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 2
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.59
Engine
Alternator: 210 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Battery rating: 420 CCA · Exhaust: performance
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: black · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: carbon fiber · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: wing · Rear spoiler color: carbon fiber · Rocker panel color: silver · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment: Android Auto ready
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: coolant temperature warning
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: automatic high beam dimmer · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: reverse gear tilt
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 2
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: fuel cut-off · Parking sensors: rear · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: perforated
Spare Tire
Kit: tire sealant
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.7
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: double wishbone · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with read function · Navigation app: INRIX Traffic · Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: myAudi with Audi connect · Smart device app function: send destination to vehicle
Tires
Type: summer performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel locks: front and rear · Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive · Power windows: with safety reverse
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Voice recognition audio system · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Remote CD changer location: behind seat · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 5 · 140 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Electronic parking brake: auto off · Front brake diameter: 15.0 · Front brakes: carbon ceramic disc · Rear brake diameter: 14.0 · Rear brakes: carbon ceramic disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: carbon · Dash trim: carbon · Door sill trim: carbon · Door trim: leather · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: alloy
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): USB front · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: in dash · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 2
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.59
Engine
Alternator: 210 amps · Battery: maintenance-free · Battery rating: 420 CCA · Exhaust: performance
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: black · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: carbon fiber · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: decklid · Rear spoiler color: carbon fiber · Rocker panel color: silver · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment: Audi MMI Connect
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Instrument cluster screen size: 12.3 in. · Warnings and reminders: coolant temperature warning
Lights
Daytime running lights: LED · Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 2
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: power
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: fuel cut-off · Parking sensors: rear · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: perforated
Spare Tire
Kit: tire sealant
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.7
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: double wishbone · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Electronic messaging assistance: with read function · Navigation app: INRIX Traffic · Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Smart device app compatibility: myAudi with Audi connect · Smart device app function: vehicle location
Tires
Type: summer performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel locks: front and rear · Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Power windows: with safety reverse