Vehicle Overview
| Vehicle Segment | High-Performance Sports Car |
| Body Style | 2-Door Coupe (RWD/AWD) |
| Release Year | 2006 (debut model, MY2007 in many markets) |
| Trim/Variant Reviewed | Audi R8 4.2 FSI quattro |
Key Specifications
| Engine | 4.2L V8 FSI (Naturally Aspirated, dry sump) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed R tronic Automated Manual |
| Power Output | 420 hp @ 7,800 rpm |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 4,500–6,000 rpm |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro with rear bias) |
| Dimensions | 4,431 mm (L) × 1,904 mm (W) × 1,252 mm (H); Wheelbase: 2,650 mm |
| Weight | ~1,560–1,635 kg (Kerb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 liters |
| Fuel Economy | ~13.5 L/100 km (combined EU) |
| Boot Space | ~100 L (front trunk) |
Exterior Design
Iconic low-slung supercar silhouette, based on the Le Mans quattro concept
Signature side blades behind doors – available in contrast colors
Full aluminum space frame construction for reduced weight
Aggressive bi-xenon headlights with LED DRLs (first use of full LED lights in later models)
Center-exit dual exhaust, rear diffuser, and active rear spoiler
Timeless proportions with mid-engine layout and glass engine bay cover
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Driver-centric cockpit with hand-built quality and premium finishes
Real leather upholstery, brushed aluminum or carbon fiber trim
Flat-bottom steering wheel, clean analog gauges
Supportive sports seats with optional heated functionality
Well-insulated cabin with surprising comfort for long drives
More usable and ergonomic than most supercars of its time
Features & Infotainment
MMI interface with rotary control (basic by today’s standards)
6.5" display, navigation, CD changer, Bluetooth (optional)
Bang & Olufsen sound system (available on higher trims)
Dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats
Keyless entry optional on later variants
Safety & Ratings
Standard Features
ABS, ESC, traction control
Front and side airbags, stability programs
Audi Space Frame (ASF) for structural rigidity
| Crash Testing | Not formally tested by Euro NCAP/IIHS due to niche class |
Safety focus on rigidity, active handling, and controlled performance
Driving Performance & Handling
0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds (manual); 4.3 seconds with R tronic
Linear, high-revving V8 soundtrack up to 8,250 rpm redline
quattro AWD with 15–85 rear torque bias—predictable, confidence-inspiring handling
Balanced mid-engine chassis; sharp cornering with near-neutral dynamics
Magnetic ride adaptive suspension (optional) offers comfort & stiffness balance
Superb steering feel and control, ideal for both road and track
Fuel Efficiency
| Rated Economy (EU) | ~13.5 L/100 km combined |
| Real-World | ~15–18 L/100 km under spirited use |
No hybrid or efficiency tech—focus was on pure NA performance
75L tank offers ~450–500 km range with mixed driving
Practicality & Everyday Usability
Surprisingly daily-drivable for a mid-engine supercar
Small front trunk (~100 L) fits soft luggage
Excellent visibility compared to rivals (thanks to upright glasshouse)
Ride quality acceptable for daily use, especially with magnetic ride
Low ground clearance can be a challenge on urban roads
Warranty & Maintenance
| Original Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles (USA) |
| Service Intervals | Oil every ~15,000 km; major every 30,000+ km |
Common Maintenance Costs
Clutch (manual/R tronic) expensive to replace
Carbon buildup on FSI engines over time
R tronic gearbox less reliable than manual
High resale value and collectibility today
On-Road Price & Value for Money
| Europe | Starting around €104,000 at launch |
At launch, offered supercar performance for the price of a loaded 911
Strong value proposition with exotic looks and real-world usability
Comparison with Rivals (2006–2008)
| Model | Engine | 0–100 km/h |
|---|---|---|
| Audi R8 4.2 FSI | 4.2L V8 | 4.6s |
| Porsche 911 Carrera S | 3.8L Flat-6 | 4.8s |
| Aston Martin V8 Vantage | 4.3L V8 | 4.9s |
| Corvette Z06 | 7.0L V8 | 3.9s |
| R8 stood out for | Balance, build quality, and everyday usability |
| Downside | Less raw than Z06, slower than top 911 Turbo |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Timeless design and mid-engine layout
Everyday comfort + supercar performance
Precise handling and chassis balance
Excellent build quality
High collector value today
Cons
R tronic gearbox not as smooth or fast as rivals
Expensive to maintain (clutch, electronics)
Limited cargo space
Overall Rating
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4.5 / 5) |
True Motion Auto has not independently road-tested this vehicle. Specifications, pricing and performance figures are compiled from manufacturer technical data and published independent tests, and are attributed where quoted. Our score reflects a structured research assessment of specifications, pricing, safety data and owner feedback for the segment — not an independent road test. Read how we review cars.
A modern classic that blends exotic design, usability, and V8 purity, marking Audi's sports car arrival with flair.
Final Verdict
The 2006 Audi R8 was a game-changer—a mid-engine supercar with the soul of a race car and the polish of an Audi. It’s perfect for those who want to drive something iconic, daily or on the weekends, without sacrificing comfort or confidence. A strong used buy today and a future classic already.
More Audi reviews: Audi A1 Sportback Review, Audi A5 Sportback Review and Audi A7 Sportback Review.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting strong driver appeal and performance-focused character, premium materials, image and comfort. |
| Body style | Performance Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.