2021 Audi R8

MSRP range: $142,700 - $196,700

Audi R8 performance Coupe Exterior Shown

8.1/10 Expert Rating

#3 Exotic sport coupe

+28

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MSRP	$164,595
Edmunds suggests you pay	$164,462

What Should I Pay

Audi R8 for Sale

2021 Audi R8 Review

Mark Takahashi

byMark Takahashi

Pros

Blissful, high-revving V10 engine
Responsive and athletic handling
Comfortable ride and gorgeous interior

ConsWhat's new

Audi has plenty of go-fast vehicles these days, ranging from the accessible S3 sedan to the bonkers RS Q8 performance SUV. Yet there's no Audi that turns more heads than the R8, the brand's halo sports car. Evocative styling and a high-revving naturally aspirated V10 engine are the standout highlights here, yet it also delivers a healthy dose of thrilling performance and respectable comfort. It's an exotic sports car that you can drive every day.

For 2021, the R8 revives the rear-wheel-drive model that was previously limited to a few hundred examples for the U.S. back in 2018. Now, it represents the entry-level R8, supporting the more powerful all-wheel-drive R8 Performance Quattro. Also debuting this year is the Panther Edition (limited to only 30 examples for the U.S.) that brings some sinister looks with a splash of brilliant red.

No matter which R8 inspires you, it'll deliver thrills in abundance in a sharp and modern package. It's a worthy rival to other sport coupes that include the Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz AMG GT and Acura NSX. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our full evaluation of the R8's performance, comfort and more.

Edmunds' Expert Rating^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}
Rated for you by America’s best test team
Our verdict	8.1 / 10
The Audi R8 V10 Performance easily earns high scores, and not just because it's a performance powerhouse. Its athleticism doesn't come at the expense of refinement or drivability, and its lustworthy status is upheld through craftsmanship and technology, justifying a $200,000 price tag. The higher-performing R8 Performance gives up some comfort and niceties, which is why we suggest checking out the base R8.
How does the R8 drive?	9.0
The Audi R8 V10 Performance delivers the performance expected of an exotic sports car. Acceleration is otherworldly, reaching 60 mph in only 3.0 seconds. Handling is also unflappable, and the brakes are consistent and trustworthy. What's surprising, though, is how easy it is to explore its incredible capabilities and how pleasant it drives when you're not dropping the hammer. Besides the power, braking and grip, the R8's steering contributes a lot to the overall experience, with appropriate effort at low and high speeds, quick responses, and a decent amount of feedback.
How comfortable is the R8?	8.0
Comfort doesn't suffer as a result of the R8's impressive performance capabilities. The ride quality is appropriately stiff but not jarring. It has just enough compliance to filter out harsh impacts, and the standard R8's adaptive suspension should give an even broader range. The interior is also praiseworthy for its ability to keep road and wind noise at bay, allowing you to enjoy the glorious V10 growl. We really only knock the R8 Performance for the sport seats that have no seatback adjustments. The side bolstering is also a bit too aggressive, which could be problematic for wider-bodied passengers. The seats in the base R8 are more accommodating but slightly less sporty.
How’s the interior?	8.0
The sleek, understated design blends with high technology for a modern cabin that's easy to acclimate to. Getting in doesn't require any contortions, but the low seats and roofline, combined with a wide side sill, will require a bit more effort from taller occupants. For the average-size driver, the aggressive seats and cockpit will fit like a tailored suit, but larger occupants might feel as if things have shrunk a bit in the wash. The R8 gives the sensation of a more spacious coupe, with a simple dash and no central infotainment screen. Functions typically operated through touchscreens are moved to the instrument panel and controlled by numerous steering wheel controls.
How’s the tech?	8.0
Audi's MMI infotainment system remains one of the best in the industry for its wide array of functions and ease of use. Some people, though, may be initially thrown off by having almost all functions run through the instrument panel instead of secondary screens. Some of the more advanced safety features are absent, but in an engaging sports car like this, they're not missed.
How’s the storage?	6.0
Sports cars aren't regarded for their practicality, and mid-engine cars typically come up shorter than others in this area. Cargo room and interior storage are limited in the R8, but there's enough space to stow bags for a weekend getaway for two. The narrow but deep front trunk holds about 8 cubic feet and can accommodate a small carry-on suitcase or a couple of duffel bags. There is also a narrow shelf behind the seats, but it's not quite as accommodating as the one in the Porsche 911. Interior storage is scarce, with a few small bins and shallow pockets to store your personal items.
How’s the fuel economy?	6.5
The EPA estimates fuel economy at 16 mpg combined. We averaged 19.9 mpg on our 115-mile mixed driving evaluation route. That's a good sign, but driving efficiently requires extraordinary restraint (our overall average was a more dismal 13.3 mpg). Other sports cars are more frugal with fuel.
Is the R8 a good value?	8.0
The R8 can cost as much as a nice condo. But as a wise person once said, "You can sleep in a car, but you can't drive a house." What you get for the money is one of the most technologically advanced sports cars that'll make you feel like a million bucks. That's a great ROI. All materials are top-shelf, and the R8 feels as if it was carved out of a single block of aluminum. Every button and knob has a solid weight and movement to it, which showcases the best of what Audi can do.
Wildcard	10.0
The Audi R8 may get points deducted for convenience and seat comfort, but the payoff in performance and entertainment far outweighs those factors. Sports cars like this are built to exhilarate, and the R8 delivers with a heady dose of acceleration and ultra-confident handling. The Audi R8 is more of a stealth fighter among its flashier exotic kin, even with its 10-cylinder engine exposed under glass. Its design looks refined and purposeful, and the R8 would be equally in its element parked in front of an opera house or rolling through the paddock of a racetrack.

Which R8 does Edmunds recommend?

We have no doubt that the vast majority of drivers will be overjoyed with the R8 RWD. It has more than enough power and overall performance to thrill. You'll also save a bundle of cash compared to the all-wheel-drive R8 Performance Quattro.

Audi R8 models

The 2021 Audi R8 is available as either a two-seat sport coupe or convertible (Spyder). Two trim levels are offered: the R8 RWD, which is rear-wheel-drive, and the R8 Performance Quattro, which is all-wheel-drive. The Spyder versions are identically outfitted to the coupes and add a sound-insulated power-folding cloth roof and power glass wind blocker. There's also a limited Panther Edition for 2021. Many features can be substituted between RWD and Performance trims as options.

R8 RWD
Power comes from a 5.2-liter V10 engine (532 horsepower, 398 lb-ft of torque) paired to seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Standard feature highlights include:

20-inch wheels
Power-folding, heated mirrors with auto dimming
Auto-deploying rear spoiler
Automatic climate control
Leather upholstery
Heated seats
Digital instrument panel
Navigation system
Satellite radio
Wireless charging pad with signal booster
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Automatic high beams
Front and rear parking sensors

An optional Premium package adds:

Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
Faux suede interior treatments
Extended leather upholstery

Panther Edition
The 2022 R8 Panther Edition is limited to only 30 units for the U.S. market and is based on the R8 RWD. Additional features include:

Unique color-shifting black/purple paint
Red and black interior and exterior elements
Black and carbon-fiber exterior accents
Racing-style seats with fixed backrests
Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
Sport exhaust system

R8 Performance
The R8 Performance gets a power increase (602 hp, 413 lb-ft) over the R8 RWD. It also has:

All-wheel drive
Ceramic brake rotors
Fixed rear spoiler
Sport exhaust system
Upgraded headlights
Carbon-fiber accents
Racing seats with fixed backrests

Compare dealer price quotes

2021 Audi R8 pricing

in Ashburn, VA

2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)

Base

5.2L 10cyl 7AM

$164,462

performance 2dr Coupe AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)

performance

5.2L 10cyl 7AM

$201,746

Consumer reviews

There are no consumer reviews for the 2021 Audi R8.

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Helpful shopping links

2021 Audi R8 video

2018 Audi R8 V10 RWS First Look: Frankfurt Auto Show

[MUSIC PLAYING] MARK TAKAHASHI: Hey, everybody, here's an easy one. What's got two thumbs, loves a mid engine rear wheel drive sports car? This guy. Right behind here is the all new 2018 Audi R8 V10 RWS. RW stands for rear wheel. That's right, it's rear wheel drive. What does that mean? Well, the regular R8 is really insanely capable when it comes to handling. This is rear wheel drive, so that means it's going to get really squirrely. By really squirrely, I mean really fun. So think of it almost like the Valentino Balboni edition that Lamborghini put out. Where it's really meant to get tail happy and drifty. I can't wait to drive it, I hope I do. But it's not going to be that easy, and I'll get to that later. So this version, it's going to be available as either coupe or convertible. And it's going to have the 540 horsepower V10 that's in the regular R8. Now there's no word if it's actually going to get the V10 plus, which has 610 horsepower. I mean, that'd be excessive, right? Like the other R8s, this has a seven speed dual clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. And I got to drive it last year sometime. And it was an insane blast. Man, is this car good. On top of that, since there's no front wheel drive mechanics going on underneath, it's also 110 pounds lighter. And that's 110 pounds lighter in the nose. So that means the balance is being shifted further back for even more tail happy fun. Now visually, the differences, they're pretty slight. The slide blade that's kind of been an R8 trademark since the beginning, it's body colored on the bottom, gloss black on top. And that kind of echoes their LMS race car. Very cool. Also, that red stripe there, it's an option. I kind of like it though. So there's going to be 999 versions available worldwide and that's it. About a third of them, they're going to come to the US. Prices? We'll see. It should be hitting Europe sometime this fall. US, it'll follow a couple of months later. So the beginning of 2018. So for more information on this R8 as well as any of the R8s and its competition, head on over to edmunds.com. If you want to see more videos like this, hit subscribe and check out all of our other videos. [MUSIC PLAYING]

2018 Audi R8 V10 RWS First Look: Frankfurt Auto Show

NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Audi R8, but since the 2021 Audi R8 is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.

Edmunds 2018 Audi R8 V10 RWS debut from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. Senior Writer Mark Takahashi checks out the 2018 Audi R8 V10 RWS, Audi's new rear-wheel-drive version of the sports car, which will be available as a coupe or convertible. Like the regular R8, it has the

Features & Specs

Trim

Base MSRP: $142,700

MPG & Fuel: 14 City / 23 Hwy / 17 Combined; Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.9 gal. capacity

Seating: 2 seats

Drivetrain: Type: rear wheel drive; Transmission: 7-speed automated manual

Engine: V10 cylinder; Horsepower: 532 hp @ N/A rpm; Torque: 398 lb-ft @ N/A rpm

Basic Warranty: 4 yr./ 50000 mi.

Dimensions: Length: 174.3 in. / Height: 48.7 in.; Overall Width with Mirrors: 80.2 in.; Overall Width without Mirrors: 76.4 in.; Curb Weight: 3594 lbs.; Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 8.0 cu.ft.

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite R8 safety features:

Rearview Camera: Shows you what's behind the vehicle to make reversing safer and easier.
Front and Rear Parking Sensors: Gives you an acoustic alert as the vehicle approaches an object while you park.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Notifies you if the pressure in a given tire drops below the recommended amount.

Audi R8 vs. the competition

2021 Audi R8

2021 Audi R8

2021 Porsche 911

2021 Porsche 911

Audi R8 vs. Porsche 911

Porsche's 911 is a worthy competitor to the R8. As you progress up the lineup, the 911 packs in more performance yet remains practical and comfortable. Porsche gives you a huge variety of options to pick from too. The R8's model lineup isn't as extensive, and there aren't as many ways to customize it. But it's a rarer sight on the road than the 911, which has its own appeal.

Compare Audi R8 & Porsche 911 features

Audi R8 vs. Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT could be thought of as the bad boy in the group (in a good way). It's more of a muscle car than exotic sport coupe, offering a raw visceral experience that can thrill and terrify at the same time. It's wickedly fun, but larger passengers might feel cramped inside. The R8 is spacious in comparison.

Compare Audi R8 & Mercedes-Benz AMG GT features

Audi R8 vs. Acura NSX

In some ways, the R8 and the NSX are cut from the same cloth. Heck, even Tony Stark drove both in the Marvel universe. But there are some notable differences. The NSX is easier to drive hard, but that easy-driving character results in less driver engagement as the many control systems make some corrections for you. The NSX also disappoints with its lackluster infotainment system.

Compare Audi R8 & Acura NSX features

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FAQ

Is the Audi R8 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 R8 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. You probably care about Audi R8 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the R8 gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg to 17 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the R8 has 8.0 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Audi R8. Learn more

What's new in the 2021 Audi R8?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Audi R8:

Rear-wheel-drive model added to lineup
New Panther Edition; limited to 30 units in the U.S.
Part of the second R8 generation introduced for 2017

Is the Audi R8 reliable?

To determine whether the Audi R8 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the R8. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the R8's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2021 Audi R8 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Audi R8 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 R8 and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 R8 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2021 Audi R8?

The least-expensive 2021 Audi R8 is the 2021 Audi R8 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $142,700.

Other versions include:

2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM) which starts at $142,700
performance 2dr Coupe AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM) which starts at $196,700

What are the different models of Audi R8?

If you're interested in the Audi R8, the next question is, which R8 model is right for you? R8 variants include 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), and performance 2dr Coupe AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM). For a full list of R8 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2021 Audi R8

2021 Audi R8 Overview

The 2021 Audi R8 is offered in the following submodels: R8 Coupe, R8 Convertible. Available styles include 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), Spyder 2dr Convertible w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), performance Spyder 2dr Convertible AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), and performance 2dr Coupe AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM). Audi R8 models are available with a 5.2 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 602 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 Audi R8 comes with rear wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual. The 2021 Audi R8 comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.

What do people think of the 2021 Audi R8?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Audi R8 and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 R8.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Audi R8 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 R8 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2021 Audi R8?

2021 Audi R8 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)

The 2021 Audi R8 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $164,595. The average price paid for a new 2021 Audi R8 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM) is trending $133 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $133 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $164,462.

The average savings for the 2021 Audi R8 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM) is 0.1% below the MSRP.

2021 Audi R8 performance 2dr Coupe AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM)

Which 2021 Audi R8s are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Audi R8 for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Audi R8.

Can't find a new 2021 Audi R8s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Audi for sale - 3 great deals out of 17 listings starting at $23,431.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

What is the MPG of a 2021 Audi R8?

2021 Audi R8 2dr Coupe w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), 7-speed automated manual, premium unleaded (required)
17 compined MPG,
14 city MPG/23 highway MPG

2021 Audi R8 Spyder 2dr Convertible w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), 7-speed automated manual, premium unleaded (required)
17 compined MPG,
14 city MPG/23 highway MPG

2021 Audi R8 performance Spyder 2dr Convertible AWD w/V10 (5.2L 10cyl 7AM), 7-speed automated manual, premium unleaded (required)
16 compined MPG,
13 city MPG/20 highway MPG

EPA Est. MPG	17
Transmission	7-speed automated manual
Drive Train	rear wheel drive
Displacement	5.2 L
Passenger Volume	N/A

Wheelbase	104.3 in.
Length	174.3 in.
Width	N/A
Height	48.7 in.
Curb Weight	3594 lbs.

Should I lease or buy a 2021 Audi R8?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Audi lease specials

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