2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Convertible AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Convertible AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Convertible AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
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quattro 2dr Convertible AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Convertible AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
Overall Rating
The 2020 Audi R8 uses the same engine as its predecessors, a naturally aspirated FSI V10. It has been tweaked this year so the power output has been increased to 562 horsepower.
Iron Man's choice of a less adventurous commute, the Audi R8 has been a pop culture icon ever since Robert Downey Jr. first drove it in 2008. As such, a lot is expected from the latest generation, and its 2020 version has got to outperform all its predecessors. Surely, much fanfare has been given to the R8 Decennium edition, but the V10 FSI Quattro coupe is not to be entirely left out.
If you are willing to break into the R8 lineup, the base V10 coupe certainly won’t disappoint. Underneath that taut build you will find everything that will make you feel like a superhero once you get behind its steering wheel. You get all the latest toys to play around with in an ambience that feels serene.
Though the Performance trim certainly has better appeal, we recommend sticking to the base trim since it is an all-in-one package. It is technically slower but that doesn’t mean it is any less fun to drive. In the end, you will be glad to save an extra 24 grand for a 0.2-second slower 0-60 time.
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Coupe (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Convertible AWD (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
2dr Convertible (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)
The 2020 Audi R8 uses the same engine as its predecessors, a naturally aspirated FSI V10. It has been tweaked this year so the power output has been increased to 562 horsepower.
Iron Man's choice of a less adventurous commute, the Audi R8 has been a pop culture icon ever since Robert Downey Jr. first drove it in 2008. As such, a lot is expected from the latest generation, and its 2020 version has got to outperform all its predecessors. Surely, much fanfare has been given to the R8 Decennium edition, but the V10 FSI Quattro coupe is not to be entirely left out.
If you are willing to break into the R8 lineup, the base V10 coupe certainly won’t disappoint. Underneath that taut build you will find everything that will make you feel like a superhero once you get behind its steering wheel. You get all the latest toys to play around with in an ambience that feels serene.
The R8 coupe is available in two trims. The base Quattro variant is powerful enough, with its 5.2L FSI V10 that gives out 562 horsepower. For those looking to edge out the competition, there is the R8 Performance Quattro Coupe which surely please with its upgraded V10 now producing 611 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque.
Both the trims are largely similar everywhere else. The Performance Quattro trim grants you access to put more carbon-fiber around the interior and exterior of the car, making it look like a proper supercar. Even in its base Quattro avatar, though, the R8 is not to be taken lightly.
Trims |
R8 Quattro |
R8 Performance Quattro |
---|---|---|
MSRP (AWD) |
$169,900 |
$195,900 |
Key Features |
5.2L FSI V10 |
Adds/Upgrades to R8 Quattro |
562 hp |
Upgraded 5.2L FSI V10 engine |
|
406 lb-ft of torque |
611 hp |
|
550-watt Bang and Olufsen sound system as standard |
417 lb-ft of torque |
|
Multiple drive modes |
Optional Carbon fiber exterior panels |
|
State-of-the-art infotainment system |
Optional carbon fiber seats and gear |
|
13-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system |
Which trim to go for?
Though the Performance Quattro Coupe certainly has better appeal, we recommend sticking to the base trim since it is an all-in-one package. It is technically slower but that doesn’t mean it is any less fun to drive. In the end, you will be glad to save an extra 24 grand for a 0.2-second slower 0-60 time.
Powering the all-new 2020 Audi R8 Coupe AWD is a 5.2L FSI V10. It is untouched by any supercharger or turbocharger feathering. Thus, it is quick to deliver the power of 562 horses as soon as you put your foot down.
While it lacks the exhilaration of similarly powered cars, it does provide a good balance between practicality and all-out performance. It can be a good cruise when driven in Comfort mode or tear up the back roads with Sport mode.
Also, as the name suggests, this rowdy Audi gets Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system as standard. This allows the R8 to have total control on the road. Still, the ones looking to get the most out of this Audi, in terms of performance, should definitely think opting for the R8 Performance Quattro. Its V10 gets a serious power bump over the base R8 Quattro.
Models |
Audi R8 Quattro Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX AWD |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$169,900 |
$161,800 |
$159,300 |
$157,100 |
Engine |
5.2L Fsi V10 | 3.8L Twin-Turbo Flat Six | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.8L Twin-Turbo V6 |
Drivetrain |
AWD |
RWD |
AWD |
AWD |
Transmission |
7-Speed S-Tronic Automatic | 7-Speed Dual Clutch Pdk Automatic | 9-Speed Dual Clutch Automatic | 9-Speed Dual Cluthautomatic |
Power |
562hp@8,100rpm |
540hp@6,400rpm |
573hp@6,500rpm |
600hp@6,800rpm |
Torque |
406lb-ft@6,400rpm |
486lb-ft@1,950rpm |
476lb-ft@2,000rpm |
481lb-ft@3,600rpm |
If you want more power and don’t mind driving around in what would feel like a big plastic box, the GT-R would suit you much better. Moreover, the R8 Quattro is more powerful than only that Porsche 911 Turbo. Considering the fact that all other coupes get a smaller engines still manage to make more power is surely a bit off-putting. But the Audi's V10, unlike the rest, is naturally aspirated.
The R8 gives an instantaneous response off the line. Its acceleration is sweet but controlled. You don’t get a breakneck-worthy start, but it will go to 60 mph before you are done reading this, which is more than good enough. The R8 only gets faster in its Performance Quattro version.
The Sport Mode will certainly tighten things up regardless. Together the 5.2-liter V10 and 7-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission put power to the ground extremely efficiently. Power is channelled to all the wheels that are capable of driving this Audi to a top speed of 202 mph.
Model |
Audi R8 Quattro Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
3.4 sec |
2.9 sec |
2.7 sec |
2.7 sec |
Quarter Mile |
11.5 sec |
11.1 sec |
11.2 sec |
10.8 sec |
Top Speed | 205 MPH | 198 MPH | 191 MPH | 193 MPH |
Engine |
5.2L Fsi V10 | 3.8L Twin-Turbo Flat Six | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.8L Twin-Turbo V6 |
This is greater than both the Nissan GT-R Track Edition(196 mph) and the Acura NSX(191 mph). They are deinitely the quicker of the lot but certainly not faster. Even the 911 Turbo S doesn't disappoint. Its PDK transmission is unfailing.
The latest update to the R8 give it carbon-ceramic brakes as standard across all trims. Those carbon-ceramic discs include six-pot callipers, that are quite big. Consequently, the R8 coupe, weighing in at over 3700 lbs., stops at the drop of a dime.
The braking force, however, is so well balanced distributed that even before you can feel the brakes grabbing, the R8 comes to a subtle stop. Its lower ride height and compact size make panic braking as relaxing as possible.
Model |
Audi R8 Quattro Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Rotors Front |
14.4" |
16.1" |
14.5" |
15.0" |
Brake Rotors Rear |
14.0" |
15.4" |
14.2" |
15.3" |
Curb Weight |
3737 lbs |
3517 lbs |
3878 lbs |
3911 lbs |
60-0 MPH |
96 ft |
99 ft |
103 ft |
97 ft |
Speaking of weight, however, the GT-R offers a similar braking performance inspite of a 200-pound disadvantage. Still, the R8 performs better than the 911 Turbo and Acura NSX, owing to its excellent Quattro AWD and superior ABS.
Audi won many rally championships back in the day when they first introduced the Quattro 4WD drive system. Fast forward to today, and the advanced Quattro system within the Audi R8 Coupe still carries on the legacy in a high note. You can use the R8 to commute every day, and still be ready when the moment is right and you fancy a race.
The four drive modes on the Audi Drive-Select lets the car know if you want a relaxing drive across Route 66 or a blistering lap of Laguna Seca. The suspension is equipped with magnetic fluid pistons and adjust according to the settings, and does it quite exceptionally.
The AWD drivetrain keeps the car in control of the driver at all times. The steering feels nimble and to-the-point. A great choice to have some fast-paced fun around the track. But don’t go expecting long drifts even with the traction control turned off. Additionally, several driver assist systems make the car semi-autonomous for long drives.
How safe will you be while going all out in the 2020 R8?
The 2020 R8's interior proves that this Audi is for the driver
The official EPA rated MPG of the 2020 R8 Coupe has not yet been announced. However, the 5.2L V10 has been optimized better than ever before. According to Audi, this retuned V10 should improve R8's fuel economy and make it better than any of the cars in its segment.
That, however, is not the case. Its competitors have advanced powertrains that are also more efficient. In comparison, that Audi is behnd all other coupes as far as fuel economy is concerned.
Model |
Audi R8 Quattro Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (City) |
13 |
19 |
21 |
16 |
MPG (Highway) |
20 |
24 |
22 |
22 |
MPG (Combined) |
16 |
21 |
21 |
18 |
Fuel Capacity | 21.9 gallons | 17.6 gallons | 15.6 gallons | 19.5 gallons |
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) | 285/438/350 miles | 334/422/370 miles | 328/343/328 miles | 312/429/351 miles |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/yr) |
11.0 |
7.2 |
10.6 |
9.2 |
Athough with a 21.9 gallon fuel tank, it is the car to take you for a grand tour. Compared to the competition, the R8's mpg figures surely stand out. Sure, it is not as efficient in the city but considering its 5.2-liter V10, it is not as bad either. Overall, the R8 is definitely most efficient.
Unlike most supercars, the Audi R8 Coupe focuses on the overall experience of driving rather than pure performance. The 2020 update gives the car some enhanced acoustics to make it a bit quieter in the cabin. The interior of the 2020 R8 has been laid out in beautiful hand-crafted Nappa leather, pleasing to both sight and touch.
Audi provides a wider range of materials to choose from. The Performance Quattro coupe, available for an additonal price of $26,000, can grant you access to enough carbon fiber that would cause the McLaren 570S to double-check itself in the mirror.
There is plenty of room in the seats, despite the fact this is a mid-engine car with a massive V10 mounted laterally. Even still, the seats are 8-way power adjustable and the steering wheel is tilting-and-telescopic. There is also a dual-zone climate control standard for all trims. All these features make the comfort level reach a height where you can’t get cramped or tired even after a long drive.
Model |
Audi R8 Quattro Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
Seating Capacity |
2 |
4 |
2 |
4 |
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
39.0/55.0/40.9 |
39.4/55.6/39.2 |
38.3/57.7/42.9 |
38.1/54.3/44.6 |
When it comes to front row comfort, it is only the Nissan GT-R that manages to offer more legroom than the R8 Quattro Coupe. Then again, that Nissan has a longer wheelbase, still in terms of overall roominess, the R8 trumps the GT-R.
In a nutshell, yes. As does the interior shine for the R8 Coupe, so does its infotainment system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit is standard across the range. It boasts a 12.3-inch interactive display at the center console, serving the purpose of an infotainment unit and instrument cluster both. The screen is easy to use and customizable but voice control is not that great.
To sort of make up for that, Audi equips the R8 with an MMI touch tech. This enables you to write instructions in your own rather than navigate through screens. So for sure the car can read if not listen. That 12.3-inch display includes other features like:
The driver-focused cabin of the 2020 Audi R8 is definitely sporty. That, however, does not in anyway mean that the R8 shies away from indulgence. It gets enough features to ensure comfort in your everyday commute. The most notable of them are:
Besides being 30 hp more powerful than its predecessors, the 2020 Audi R8 Coupe is certainly more practical too. It offers the ability to carry a few bags on your next trip. Though not much impressive to the casual user, it is certainly better than most others in its class.
Model |
Audi R8 Quattro Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Capacity |
8.0 cu.ft. |
5.8 cu.ft. |
4.4 cu.ft. |
8.8 cu.ft. |
At 8.0 cubic ft., the cargo of the Audi R8 Quattro is next only ot the Nissan GT-R Track Edition. Other than that, there is no coupe that offers the level of practicality the R8 does. The Nissan's longer wheelbase clearly has its advantages.
Audi has been busy with giving the 2020 R8 Coupe a facelift. The headlights are darker and highlighted by sharper edges. There are 3 faux inlets above the grille, clearly inspired by the R8 LMS GT3 and GT4 race cars.
The chin spoiler comes in black or gold as standard. However, with an extra $4,800 you can get the carbon-fiber exterior package. This makes the R8 look like a proper supercar, with carbon fiber compartment trim, side-blades and spoiler.
The color schemes also get an update and offer a wider range of colors to choose from. Some new additions include the Kemora Gray and Ara Blue Crystal. The Performance trim allows you to blackout all Audi badges and paints the brake calipers in fiery red.
Model |
Audi R8 Coupe |
Porsche 911 Turbo |
Acura NSX |
Nissan GT-R Track Edition |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb Weight |
3737 lbs |
3517 lbs |
3878 lbs |
3911 lbs |
Length |
174.3" |
177.4" |
176.1" |
184.6" |
Width |
76.4" |
74.0" |
87.3" |
74.6" |
Height |
48.8" |
51.1" |
47.8" |
53.9" |
Ground Clearance |
4.3" |
4.2" |
3.7" |
4.3" |
Wheelbase |
104.4" |
96.5" |
103.5" |
109.4" |
Audi R8 Coupe is certainly a high-headed car. It has a ground clearance with an optional 2-inch lift, making it suitable for speed bumps on city roads. Its roof also sits fairly above the ground, giving it a decent height and more practicality.
This gives you the ability to reach out directly to those drive-through windows present in your favorite to-go restaurants, unlike that Porsche where you might have to park and get out of your car to eat something.
There most likely won’t be any crash tests for the 2020 Audi R8, either by the NHTSA or the IIHS. Nevertheless, you can be rest assured to be safe to drive it. The 2020 R8 has enough safety tech in place to ensure no crash happens at all.
Several driving assists are present in the R8, including Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assists. The car is also equipped with Audi Parking Control, a system that prevents any collision when your car is backing out or going into a parking spot. All thanks to an array of ultrasonic sensors enveloping the skirts of the car.
There is no doubt that the 911 Turbo is much more suited for the track. It is born off the Nurburgring and feels right at home when devouring corners with fierce, aggressive tempo. However, the Audi R8 is more of a performance-touring hybrid. When going for a relaxing cruise along the back roads, you can clearly notice the difference.
While the R8 is a more conventional sports coupe, the Acura NSX is a more modern take on the genre. It is a performance car variant with a gas-electric hybrid system that has less to do with saving Johnny the Polar Bear and more to provide a bit more punch when pressing down on the accelerator. The NSX might beat the Audi R8 in a straight line, but when it comes to providing a more hands-on approach with maneuverability and luxury, the R8 stands superior any day of the week.
As the name suggests, the Nissan GT-R is for someone that values performance over anything else. Both the R8 and GT-R have their own pros and cons in terms of practicality. Audi’s infotainment is superior, yet the GT-R has a bigger boot. The R8 has more luxury while the GT-R can seat more people. Both the cars have powerful engines and AWD as standard, yet the GT-R wouldn’t be a dull choice. You are simply sacrificing the R8’s splendor for a bit more girth and a bit extra cash.
The 2020 R8 Coupe will become available in US markets early next year. It shows much improvement, both as a sports car and a grand tourer. With more power and electronics combined with the tried-and-tested Audi technology, we might have the perfect balance of down-to-earth usability and loud-and-fast track fury. Audi is certainly heading in the right direction once again. Now we are even more excited to see what else Audi has got up their sleeves, especially with the R8 e-Tron, for the future.