Reviewed: Audi R8 Spyder

Audi came roaring into the supercar market recently, brandishing their R8 Spyder to challenge all those who stood against them. Have they prevailed in the market, or is the R8 Spyder doomed for a dusty showroom? Alternative Route investigates the workings of the R8 in this review.

Sporty

This beast comes loaded with two engines guzzling petrol. The first is a 4.2 V8 or, if you fancy more power, a 5.2 V10. If you’re going with the V8, you’re still going to get some extreme speed, boasting a 0-60 in less than five seconds. The V10 is what makes this a monster though, the pull as you press the pedal is incredible, no matter what rev you’re on. 

With all that boom from the engines, you’d think that Spyder has some handling issues – wrong. The chassis matches with the power impeccably, the four-wheel drive Quattro ensures this and the suspension has clearly been meticulously thought through – corners are not a concern for the R8…oh, it’s incredibly comfortable too.

The engines sound like a battle-cry from the Gods. Treat them rough and you’ll get the most out of its voice, melting into the background at speed and, somehow, practically no vibration from the mechanical inner-workings. The Spyder, in our opinion, has no rivals even coming in close to its expertly crafted refinement.

Behind the Wheel

Quality does not suffer any negative views either. The fit and finish of the interior are typical of Audis careful, well-planned nature. No cheap materials, no rattling or dodgy fixings – the R8 is top notch in all honesty, a king of comfort, utter-luxury and comfort. The dials and controls are fairly similar to anyone who has sat in any Audi before, the thrones are low-slung for optimal driving position whilst being able to reach everything at an arms reach. Sporty details have been added, Carbonfibre door pulls, aluminium detailing, flat-bottom steering wheel…it’s got it all.

At a glance...

You’d expect some tech in this, and you’re going to get it. As standard you’ll receive air conditioning, full leather interior, alloy-wheels, a very cool retractable rear-spoiler, sat nav, electric seats…the list goes on.

What’s the dent in your wallet? That’s the big questions. Baring in mind this is a rare, bespoke car – so you’re going to be shelling out. If you opt for lesser Spyder, you’re looking at £96,000, for the big daddy you’re going in at a pocket-burning £117,000 – still fancy it? This is a monster, and monsters are not often kind to the earth, producing a staggering 337 g/km of CO2 – don’t drive this at a Greenpeace rally.

I’m amazed at how Audi have come into the big-boy market so strong, getting practically everything right. Reviews have been almost wholly positive, a rare-treat for any manufacturers. 

Fantastical driven, expertly crafted and built for those who really do love their driving. 

Written by the team at Alternative Route Finance