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By Autotropolis Editors
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Strengths: |
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Supercar at half the price; head-turning looks; exhilarating performance; luxurious interior. |
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Changes: |
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The much-heralded R8 coupe takes center stage for Audi's 2008 model lineup. With a 420-horsepower, 4.2L mid-engine V8, the R8 can sprint to 60 mph in just over four seconds and can ably run through whatever curves you might be able to find, but the real story is in its visceral appeal. The R8 marries German engineering with Italian verve (the R8 shares its platform with the Lamborghini Gallardo) to great effect, and looks like nothing else on the road. |
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Value: |
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Audi's 2008 R8 delivers a driving and ownership experience that only the most exclusive marques can best, and it does so at a cost that is virtually half of most of its competitors. The striking styling, the mid-mounted engine, and the thrilling exhaust note come together to create a dynamic driving machine that is nothing short of exquisite. |
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Overview: |
The 2008 R8 stormed the automotive world to overwhelmingly positive reviews. Audi's new mid-engined supercar pairs a gem of an engine-the 420-horsepower, FSI direct injection 4.2L V8 found in the RS 4-to either a six-speed manual or the "R tronic" six-speed sequential manual gearbox. The four-wheel independent suspension employs a magnetic ride adaptive damping system and Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system to maximize handling, and the R8's aluminum space frame keeps the chassis rigid and light.
The end result is a car that excels when whipped through the corners.
Outside, the car has sleek and aggressive lines that pair nicely with the enormous front and side air intakes, and the handsome 19-inch alloy wheels. The R8's heroic engine is tauntingly on display through the rear glass (complemented by LED lighting) a la the Ferrari F430. The end result is a look that is remarkably fresh.
The interior is extremely well-equipped with all you would expect to find in a car with a sticker price sneaking into six figures, including heated leather-trimmed power seats, a driver information system, satellite radio, navigation, automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming mirror.
More than the equipment, however, is the design. Chrome trim tastefully adorns the cockpit, ergonomics are outstanding, and the material quality is superb.
Standard safety equipment abounds, with bi-xenon adaptive headlights, anti-lock brakes, side impact air bags, knee air bags, stability control with anti-slip regulation, and a tire pressure monitor.
A terrific Bang & Olufsen audio system is optional and includes active noise cancellation. A Premium Package combines HomeLink and Bluetooth functionalities, a six-CD changer, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, front and rear parking assist, and hill hold assist.
Extra interior leather trim, an upgraded headliner, and various color treatments for the exterior side "blade" round out the options list. |
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