2017 Audi R8
New for 2017
The 2017 Audi R8 benefits from a full redesign.
Ready to impress
It’s hard to stand out in the supercar segment, and yet the Audi R8 has been doing that comfortably for years. Not only is the R8 a pleasure to look at, it’s equally pleasing to drive. For the 2017 R8, the automaker's mandate was simple: preserve the R8’s curb appeal and add the latest technology and even more performance to its bullet list of goods.
Performance
The hallmark of any great supercar is that it delivers breathtaking power and speed, yet never feels unpredictable or sluggish to drive. And that is exactly what the 2017 Audi R8 provides – a sensational mix of power and performance that thoroughly befits a vehicle of its stature.
The 2017 Audi R8 is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 FSI® engine that’s mounted behind the seats beneath a transparent engine cover. The standard version of the engine generates 540 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
A more powerful version (V10 plus) is also available; in fact, it’s the most powerful production Audi ever developed. It has a top track speed of 205 mph* and ups total power output to 610 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It also improves on the standard model's sprint time and can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds.
Standard on all 2017 Audi R8 models is a seven-speed S tronic® transmission with quattro® all-wheel drive. While some enthusiasts may lament the loss of a manual option in the 2017 R8, there's so much greatness with the precise S tronic® automated gearbox that detractors will quickly forget any short-lived criticisms.
As with the previous generation model, the all-wheel-drive 2017 R8 is based on a sister car from Lamborghini. This time, it is the new Huracán, which is a replacement for the discontinued Gallardo.
With its Lamborghini-sourced underpinnings, the 2017 Audi R8 handles supremely with a racecar-like grip through turns and exceptionally capable ride quality on rough and bumpy surfaces. The V10 also produces a beguiling howl at a high rpm that's sure to please even the most discerning drivers.
Features
The 2017 Audi R8 is a two-seat mid-engine supercar that is available in V10 and V10 plus trim levels. Starting MSRP is $162,900.**
V10 models come with a long list of standard features. These include 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, automatic high beams, LED engine compartment lighting, adaptive magnetic ride suspension dampers, and adjustable drive settings (Drive Select).
Helping to make the 2017 R8 more manageable during everyday driving are front and rear parking sensors, auto-dimming power-folding heated side mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The standard R8 also benefits from a manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leather upholstery, 18-way power seats (with adjustable side and leg bolsters), automatic climate control, and synthetic suede headliner.
A car as advanced and rewarding to drive as the R8 should also feature the very latest technologies, and it does. The R8 comes standard with Audi connect® online services with mobile WiFi, Audi's MMI® infotainment system, a navigation system, voice controls, a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit instrument and infotainment display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth®, and a 13-speaker Bang & Olufsen® audio system – complete with satellite radio, dual USB ports, and an auxiliary input jack.
Stepping up to the V10 plus nets drivers a more powerful engine (as noted in our Performance section). The V10 plus also benefits from a number of performance-enhancing features, such as carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport suspension with conventional dampers, a carbon-fiber exterior trim package (including a fixed rear spoiler), and an additional “Performance” mode for the Drive Select system.
Rounding out the V10 plus’ feature list is a smaller fuel tank, sport exhaust, and a sport steering wheel.
Design
While popular Italian makes such as Ferrari and Lamborghini have become the pinup cars of teenagers around the world, it’s the 2017 Audi R8's subtler styling that appears more like a supercar designed for grownups.
Perhaps that’s because the R8 forgoes the sensational for the sophisticated. Don’t be mistaken, though—the R8 is every bit as engaging as its Italian counterparts. Its manner is simply far less braggadocious.
Inside and behind the wheel, the 2017 Audi R8 immediately sets about making a strong impression. The interior benefits from a full-strength dose of Audi's cutting-edge design and technology.
The gauge cluster facing the driver is filled by Audi’s unique Virtual Cockpit, a high-resolution 12.3-inch screen that dynamically resizes the speedometer and tachometer to render infotainment functions in between.
As with the new Audi TT, this solution removes the need for a separate display elsewhere, so the R8's dashboard is refreshingly uncluttered. Also of note is the new steering wheel, which boasts racecar-like integrated buttons for ignition and driving-mode selection.
Safety
The 2017 Audi R8 boasts a strong list of standard safety equipment. This includes antilock brakes, stability control, side airbags, knee airbags, and head curtain airbags. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are also standard.
Verdict
The 2017 Audi R8, with its breathtaking performance, high-revving naturally aspirated engine, precise handling, and driver-focused interior, embodies the automotive distinction that has become synonymous with the four rings.
To learn more, including information about availability, contact us online or visit Audi Silver Spring at 3151 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904 to be among the first to experience the 2017 Audi R8.
*Top track speed electronically limited in U.S. Always obey all speed and traffic laws.
**Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggest Retail Price and do not include destination and delivery ($1250), taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
Image Credit: Audi