Acceleration

Unknown	Class Average
10	9.1

Audi claims 0-60 mph in 4.4 sec with either transmission, and our manual test car felt at least that fast. The torquey V8 delivers forceful but drama-free takeoffs--aided by the all-wheel drive and traction control--plus ample highway passing punch. And it will loaf happily at town speeds without frequent shifting. We've not yet sampled the automated-manual transmission.

Fuel Economy

Unknown	Class Average
1	2.6

Poor even for a "supercar." Frequent use of the V8's explosive power netted a dismal 10.6 mpg in mixed driving. By contrast, a test Chevrolet Corvette Z06, which costs far less than the R8 and is quicker too, averaged around 15 mpg. Audi recommends premium fuel.

Ride Quality

Unknown	Class Average
5	5.8

Surprisingly comfortable despite an obviously firm suspension, 19-inch wheels and wide, low-profile tires. Still, the R8 gets restless on patchy pavement and can jolt over potholes and sharp bumps, though we've endured worse. At least the test car showed no structural shudder or rattles.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Unknown	Class Average
10	8.7

Prodigious dry-road grip and virtually no body lean make cornering racer-sharp. Quick, crisp steering with just-right weighting combines with ample engine power to allow precise path adjustments. However, wide tires tend to follow road grooves, and fast mid-corner bumps can cause a unwanted sidestep despite the stability control (which can be switched off). Powerful antilock disc brakes erase speed quickly via firm, progressive pedal action.

Quietness

Unknown	Class Average
6	5.7

A double bulkhead helps isolate the cabin from the engine just behind, but the V8 is always noticed. Ditto coarse-pavement roar from the fat tires. Still, the R8 is no noisier overall than some big-power sports sedans, so there's seldom a need to raise voices or turn up the stereo. And the V8 sounds wonderful, a mix of Formula 1 and NASCAR.

Controls

Unknown	Class Average
6	6.3

Dashboard design mimics that of other Audis with large, clear gauges and most all controls within easy reach. Some switch icons aren't obvious, though, and the moving shift lever forward partly obstructs the low-set trio of climate-control dials. Audi's Multi-Media Interface operates the optional navigation system, which absorbs most audio functions. MMI complicates many adjustments, but proves reasonably convenient after a little practice. The dashboard screen is large, but prone to daytime wash-out.

Details

Unknown	Class Average
10	8

Superb workmanship is expected for $100,000-plus, and the R8 doesn't disappoint. The interior uses high-quality plastics and fabrics applied with obvious care, plus real-aluminum accents on the dashboard, console, steering wheel and foot pedals. Leather seats are available, but test car's optional "extended leather" package also covers the dashtop, door panels and other surfaces. CD changer mounts above the center floor tunnel just behind the seats, so it's awkward to access.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Unknown	Class Average
7	6.8

A low stance and long doors strain entry/exit, but the cabin offer six-footer headroom and legroom. Firm, supportive seats have prominent side bolsters that hold occupants secure in fast direction changes, but may be a bit snug for those broader of beam. Visibility to the front and sides is fine, but restricted aft and over-the-shoulder by the wide "flying buttress" rear-roof pillars and narrow rear-window opening.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Unknown	Class Average
0	3.3

No back seat.

Cargo Room

Unknown	Class Average
1	2.3

The midengine layout relegates the R8 trunk to a paltry 3.5-cubic-foot box in the nose, so travel light or plan on short trips. A slim shelf behind the seats can stow a couple of jackets or small bags, but little else. The only other interior storage involves a small dashboard glovebox and short-sided door pockets.

Value within Class

Unknown	Class Average
7	6.8

The R8 offers head-turning style, pulse-quickening performance and superb build quality, yet is quiet and comfortable enough for daily commuting. It's as thirsty as any high-power car, and aluminum-intensive construction makes it more costly than some rivals with equal or better speed and handling. Still, most buyers in the R8's price class can afford a more-practical second or third car, and low production--some 800 per year for the U.S.--insures the exclusivity such people expect. Overall, the 2008 Audi R8 is an impressive supercar achievement and a great drive.

Total Score

Unknown	Class Average
63	65.4

Scores for all Exotic Cars

Low Score		40
Average Score		65
High Score		84