2009 Audi R8: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Audi R8 carries over to its sophomore season with few changes, though it's due to gain a more powerful sibling later in the calendar year. The R8 is an all-wheel-drive, two-seat coupe with a mid-mounted 420-horsepower V8. Two transmissions are offered: A 6-speed manual or Audi's R tronic, a sequential manual transmission that has no clutch pedal and can be set to shift like an automatic; it includes steering-wheel-mounted paddles for manual gear selection. Available safety features include ABS, antiskid system, front side airbags, and knee airbags. Other standard features include heated leather/Alcantara sport seats, satellite radio, a nine-speaker audio system, and an electronically adjustable suspension system. An optional Premium Package adds front- and rear-obstacle detection with rearview camera. Other options include a navigation system and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Due in the fall of 2009, probably as a 2010 model, is a high-performance R8 with a 525-hp 5.2-liter V10 engine.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buys are the Audi A5 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the BMW 1-Series, Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Nissan GT-R, and Porsche 911.