The 2012 Audi R8 is a two-door sports car with plenty of power and performance to offer. It manages to combine an aggressive stance and plenty of get-up-and-go with the comfort and interior refinement you’d expect from a German automaker.
Key Features
Perhaps the most important feature of the R8 is the mid-mounted engine, located just behind the seats. Rather than a sheet of metal, it sits under a sheet of glass. The transmission (manual) is also a high point, offering blistering performance.
Changes for 2012
2012 saw very few changes to the R8. Audi added a new GT model to the lineup. The regular model went unchanged.
What We Like
We really like the engine choices here – both the V8 and V10 engines are incredible performers. The manual transmission is likewise a wonder of German engineering. The cabin is thoroughly modern and more than comfortable (perhaps more comfortable than you’d expect in a sports car of this caliber). Finally, the car is easy to drive, with nimble handling.
What Concerns Us
There are a few things that concern us about the 2012 Audi R8. Perhaps the most important is the R tronic automatic transmission – the shifting is rough. If you’re interested in this car, opt for the stick shift. The storage space is more than a little limited thanks to the mid-engine design, and the interface for the car’s electronics can be very hard to use until you’ve mastered it completely.
Available Models
There are several trim levels and models on offer here. They include the 4.2 Coupe, the 4.2 Spyder, the 5.2 Coupe, the 5.2 Spyder and the GT 5.2 Coupe.
With that being said, there are only two engine options. The 4.2 models use a 4.2-liter V8 engine with 430 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. It manages 11/20 mpg. The 5.2 models use a 5.2-liter V10 engine with 525 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is 12/19 mpg. The GT version of the 5.2 Coupe uses the same V10 engine, but boosts output to 560 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque.
All models have the option of a 6-speed annual transmission or the R tronic transmission except the GT, which only offers the R tronic option.
Major Recalls
Only a single recall has been issued for the 2012 Audi R8. On some models, a fuel supply line might contact the engine’s heat shield. Friction could create a hole in the line and a fuel leak could result.
Common Issues
The most commonly cited complaint is a lack of storage space, although many drivers aren’t quite happy with the low fuel economy offered.
