2021 Audi R8 Review

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.

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.