2023 Audi R8 Review

2023 Audi R8 – Overview

Few supercars are suited for daily driving, but the 2023 Audi R8 manages it with surprising ease. It delivers blistering acceleration alongside a comfortable, composed ride. Sharing its platform and potent V-10 powertrain with the Lamborghini Huracán, the R8 is less extreme on twisty roads and racetracks, favoring refinement that aligns more closely with Audi’s signature luxury.

Inside, the two-seat cabin impresses with high-quality materials and a minimalist layout, replacing a traditional center infotainment screen with a versatile digital gauge display. Both driver and passenger enjoy a comfortable ride, though cargo space is minimal—just enough for a single carry-on. For enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and sophistication, the 2023 R8 is a rare opportunity, as it marks the final year for Audi’s V-10 supercar.

When Is The 2023 Audi R8 Coming Out?

The 2023 Audi R8 is already available at dealerships across the U.S., with first deliveries starting in early 2023. Audi continues to offer both coupe and convertible (Spyder) variants, giving buyers flexibility in choosing their ideal R8 experience.

What’s New for 2023 Audi R8?

The 2023 model year marks the final chapter for the current-generation R8. Audi is celebrating with a limited-edition GT model, featuring rear-wheel drive and a 602-hp version of the V-10 engine. The GT also comes with an updated seven-speed automatic transmission, which Audi says delivers faster shifts, and a Torque Rear driving mode designed to make controlled drifts easier. That said, the R8 remains more refined than reckless, not a car that necessarily begs for tire-smoking antics.

Inside, the GT stands out with black-and-red upholstery, carbon-fiber trim, and a numbered plaque commemorating its place in the production run. Aside from the GT, the standard coupe and convertible models continue unchanged for 2023.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2023 Audi R8 starts at $161,395, with fully loaded models topping out at $253,290, depending on trim and options.

For those seeking extra flair, the Spyder is hard to beat—there’s nothing quite like showing off the R8’s roaring V-10 with the top down. Choosing between the standard and Performance trims is more nuanced. The 562-hp V-10 delivers breathtaking acceleration and the same thunderous soundtrack as the 602-hp variant. Yet, there’s undeniable appeal in owning the ultimate R8, especially when pulling up to a Cars and Coffee event—it’s a statement that money can’t fully measure.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2023 Audi R8 V-10 engine is available in two potent versions, both delivering a spine-tingling soundtrack that’s as thrilling as the acceleration itself. Power is routed through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, which isn’t always the smoothest; it can downshift abruptly, delivering neck-snapping bursts before immediately upshifting.

Standard R8 models come with adaptive suspension, while Performance variants feature a firmer, fixed-damper setup. Both configurations absorb road imperfections well, offering a ride that remains comfortable even on longer drives.

However, the R8’s composure comes with a trade-off: when pushed hard through corners, it can feel less planted than some rivals, showing a touch of instability where you might expect supercar precision. Steering is direct and communicative, giving drivers adequate feedback and confidence on a spirited drive.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2023 Audi R8 is far from an economical choice. Rear-wheel-drive models achieve just 14 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive versions perform even worse at 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. With numbers like these, buyers should expect to pay a gas-guzzler tax as part of the purchase. For the official EPA ratings and more details on fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Minimalism meets luxury in the 2023 Audi R8 cockpit. By combining the instrument cluster and infotainment screen, Audi creates a clean, uncluttered layout that puts the sculpted sport seats and high-resolution digital gauges front and center. The brand offers extensive customization for interior colors and textures, including black, gray, brown, and red leather in flat or quilted patterns, with matching or contrasting stitching.

Controls are thoughtfully placed, including the ignition button conveniently located on the steering wheel. True to supercar tradition, the R8 sacrifices practicality for style and performance. Cargo space is extremely limited—enough for just a single carry-on suitcase—so packing light is essential.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2023 Audi R8 Virtual Cockpit gauge cluster pulls double duty, serving as both the instrumentation and the MMI infotainment display. As in other Audis, like the A4 and TT, it feels sleek and futuristic. High-resolution navigation comes standard, and the system can be operated via voice commands, steering-wheel buttons, or the center-console click wheel.

Connectivity is robust, with a standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, keeping drivers and passengers seamlessly connected on the go.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2023 Audi R8 offers minimal driver-assistance technology, focusing instead on raw performance. The coupe is equipped with a full complement of airbags to protect occupants. Key safety features include:

• Standard automatic high beams

• Standard front and rear parking sensors

For detailed crash-test results, refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Audi’s warranty coverage for the 2023 R8 is comparable to most competitors, though it falls short of rivals like the Corvette Z06 and Porsche 911 Turbo, which include complimentary scheduled maintenance. The R8’s coverage includes:

• Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

2023 Audi R8 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2023 Audi R8 remains one of the most compelling supercars on the market. Its naturally aspirated V10, precise handling, and stunning design make it a dream for driving enthusiasts. If you’re seeking an everyday-capable supercar with extraordinary performance and a luxurious cabin, the R8 delivers without compromise.

2023 Audi R8 Videos