Solid evidence of UFO’s has finally arrived. The 2010 Audi R8 has the power, speed, handling, and sleek looks to prove we have made contact with and studied superior aircraft.Under the hood – the rear engine bay glass that is – sits a 420-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-8 or a 525-horsepower, 5.2-liter V-10. A six speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission is available with either engine option. The R8 delivers 12-13 mpg in the city and 18-20 on the highway. Considering the level of performance, those fuel economy numbers are quite respectable. V-8 horsepower is superior to Aston Martin’s V-8 Vantage, and just behind Porsche’s 911; V-10 horsepower is superior even to the Nissan Skyline GT-R and Ferrari F430.
The only “interior” feature that matters is the throbbing high-horsepower motor lying underneath that rear glass and surrounded by beautiful carbon fiber trim, but the cockpit is lovely to behold as well. Leather and Alcantara (a suede-like material) cover the heated seats, and the steering wheel is wrapped in leather with metal embellishments. The manual transmission features a metal shift knob protruding from a gorgeous machined metal gate; the automatic transmission features metal paddle shifters. Automatic climate control and a charcoal air filter make the interior atmosphere comfortable and rarefied. A standard stereo with 6-CD stereo changer and Sirius Satellite Radio provides wonderful acoustic accompaniment to the symphonic roar of the engine. A glorious Bang & Olufsen stereo and a navigation system are optional, while the V-10 comes with both systems as standard equipment.Under the skin of the 2010 Audi R8 is further evidence of extraterrestrial contact: Audi’s all-aluminum frame. It balances supreme strength with lightness, for better acceleration, handling and fuel economy. Side airbags and dual front airbags with a head protection chambers in place of roof-mounted head airbags protect occupants during impact. No crash test ratings are available for the R8, but the safety package is well engineered.
Considering the company that the 400-plus horsepower of the 2010 Audi R8 puts it in, plus the tasteful use of carbon fiber trim; the beautiful display of the rear-mid mounted engine, and the spectacular driving dynamics, the 2010 Audi R8 is a value that – you guessed it – is out of this world.
