Audi R8 Spyder is a topless version of the sportiest Audi in the current line-up. Equipped with a V10 engine, it combines impressive performance, sporty elegance and the fascination of open-top driving. The new soft top weighs only 44 kilograms and can be opened up fully automatically and comfortably up to the speed of 50 km/h. By pressing a button, the soft top will be stowed away under the completely redesigned convertible top compartment cover in just 20 seconds.

AT A GLANCE

Upsides:

• Impressive appearance
• Mighty V10 engine
• Sporting genes

Downsides:

• Not much space for luggage

Design (5/5)

The sensational look of the all-new R8 Spyder V10 is similar to its predecessor but still very different. It comes with a fascinating interplay between clear contoured edges and flowing lines. From the three-dimensionally shaped Audi single-frame in a honeycomb structure and the new side blades up to the striking rear – the new R8 Spyder V10 is shorter, flatter and wider than its predecessor and is therefore even more dynamic while standing or while hitting the road.

Engine, drivetrain, and performance (5/5)

The 5.2-liter V10 FSI engine exports 540 hp and 540 Nm of torque to propel the R8 Spyder V10 from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds with an open top. Added to this is the impressive sound backdrop of the double-flow exhaust system with its trapezoidal tailpipes. The propulsion ends with the top speed of 318 km/h. The engine is connected to the 7-speed S-tronic gearbox, which transfers all power and torque to all four wheels. Thanks to its Quattro drivetrain, the R8 Spyder offers excellent traction, enhanced driving dynamics and increased driving safety.

Trim levels (5/5)

The wedge-shaped headlights are supplied with LED technology as standard, and 37 light-emitting diodes illuminate the road evenly. The Audi laser light is a high-end piece of optional equipment. Inside the car, it’s all oriented towards the driver, from the standard Audi virtual cockpit, over the R8 Performance leather steering wheel with multifunction plus, to the R8 sports seats. 19-inch alloy wheels are a standard part of the suspension, with 20-inchers as an option. Among the highlights on the list of standard equipment is the MMI navigation plus with MMI touch – a versatile infotainment control center.

Safety (5/5)

The safety package starts with 365/356 mm steel brake discs while the lightweight carbon fiber-ceramic discs are optional. The quattro system contributes to the safety, same as the new multi material Audi Space Frame body. It presents the new body concept and the next evolutionary step in providing maximum safety, performance and sporty handling. Some other safety features are Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC), cruise control and Parking system plus.

Conclusion: 5.0/5.0

Motorsport genes are identifiable through every detail of the R8 Spyder and the best surrounding for that car are twisty mountain roads or a racetrack. But, it can also be the everyday companion, thanks to the Audi drive select function, which offers four driving modes (comfort, auto, dynamic and individual) and four different characters, so every driver can configure individual components according to his preferences.