2012 Audi R8 Preview

The 2012 Audi R8 is Audi's halo car: A low-slung, two-seat supercar, partly derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo (Lamborghini is owned by parent company Audi's company). Big V-8 of the R8 and the V-10 engine and quattro all-wheel drive to offer blistering performance on the job, but still pliable enough to cruise Rodeo Drive in style, all at a price more accessible than the average supercar.

Keep fresh the R8, Audi V-10 engine added in the second model year of the car, in his third year the convertible Spyder model was added, and new for the 2012 model year, Audi R8 takes its powerful engine and, well, makes the even more powerful. The 5.2-liter V-10 adds 35 horsepower, and now totals a mighty 560 horsepower. Slim exotic styling, an ultra-premium interior, the performance at the ready, the R8 is a must for anyone considering looking at this top-tier segment.

The 2012 Audi R8 is a driver's car through and through. Luggage space is minimal, but a storage package adds nets behind the seats for luggage shelf unusable. Though capable, the R8 is tuned more like a Grand Tourer than a street-legal race car. Fuel consumption remains on par with its racier brethren, but that's not really the point, right?

Body Styles: coupe, convertible

Engines: 4.2-liter V-8, 5.2-liter V-10

Transmissions: six-speed single-clutch automatic, manual gearbox

Models: R8, R8 5.2, 5.2 R8 Spyder

Among the many changes in the 2012 Audi R8 GT is more power to the already beastly 5.2-liter V-10 engine. It now produces 560 horsepower, compared to the previous 525 hp. The GT will have a limited colors available for this model year. Also, this supercar features a carbon fiber stationary rear spoiler, bumpers and mirrors.

The 2012 Audi R8 is an exotic and eminently styled coupe with strong coke bottle curves and near perfect proportions. The V-10 and Spyder models receive unique wheels, grille, headlights and side scoops. Standard on the 4.2 coupe are 19-inch wheels, LED lights are an option. 5.2 The model includes many of the optional 4.2 model features as standard, such as carbon-ceramic brakes.

The German automaker has built a reputation for producing top-notch interiors, and the 2012 Audi R8 is a good example. Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) uses a dial on the dashboard, but compared to newer systems, this is not the most convenient and user-friendly infotainment system. Aluminum accents on the multi-function steering wheel, air vents and the console to offer a premium to touch. Sporty leather power seats are standard, like climate control, navigation, Bluetooth, and a premium stereo. An optional convenience package adds a rearview camera, hill-hold and heated auto-dimming and power folding side mirrors.

The 2012 Audi R8 is already a potent road and track machine with its 4.2-liter V-8 developing 420 hp, but the real power-mad will choose the new 560 hp 5.2-liter V-10. Both engines are coupled to either a six-speed single-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, making handling and excellent cornering. Despite its impressive performance, the R8 supercar is a relatively practical and has a comfortable ultra-premium interior, good visibility, and relative comfort.

Both the passenger front, side chest, side curtain airbags and knee. Anti-lock brakes, electronic traction and stability control are standard, as is Audi's Crash sensor, the door opens and shuts down the engine and fuel pump.

R8 4.2: 11-13 mpg highway mpg city/19-20

R8 GT: 12-13 mpg city/19 mpg highway

Sticker Price: $123,300

Sticker Price: $196,800

Sticker Price: $136,800