Green
Trucks
Luxury
Family
Brand
Muscle
See more sites from  HighGear  M E D I A  >>
Compare this car to others like it Try our car compare tool now

2009 Audi R8 Features Review

December 20, 2008

FEATURES | 9 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

[standard] retractable rear spoiler (operates automatically or manually)
Edmunds

optional $1800 Bang and Olufsen sound system with 12 speakers, 465 watts, and a satellite radio
Jalopnik

optional 'extended leather' package also covers the dashtop, door panels and other surfaces
ConsumerGuide

The 2009 Audi R8 has plenty of standard and optional features to assuage buyers who will pay over 100 grand for this limited-availability car.

Edmunds details the standard features: 19-inch wheels, a retractable rear spoiler (operates automatically or manually), xenon headlights, LED brake lights and turn signals, leather-and-Alcantara suede power-adjustable sport seats, aluminum trim, automatic climate control, and a seven-speaker CD stereo.

Model-year 2009 feature changes include now-standard six-CD changer, HomeLink remote, and the aforementioned Bluetooth connectivity system.

Audi's navigation system is easy to program (even for a nongeek) and features scalable views such as those found on Google Maps. Audi's MMI controller takes charge of the navigation system and the audio controls, and it's somewhat easier to operate than BMW's similar iDrive controller—but both make TheCarConnection.com's editors long for the days of simple control knobs.

Thankfully, for 2009 model R8s, the navigation system is now available separately, but some optional features for the 2009 Audi R8 are not available individually, frustratingly enough; according to Kelley Blue Book, these must be purchased as part of a "package." In the R8, Audi's "Convenience Package" offers a rearview camera, hill-holder clutch, Bluetooth wireless capability, and auto-dimming exterior mirrors. As Cars.com points out, Alcantara (artificial suede) trim can be ordered separately. There is also a "Leather Package" that includes more extensive leather trim in the cabin, along with a 465-watt, 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Conclusion

With more comforts and conveniences than most exotics, buyers have little to want for in the 2009 Audi R8.

FEATURES | 9 out of 10Expert Quotes:[standard] retractable rear spoiler (operates automatically or manually)Edmundsoptional $1800 Bang and Olufsen sound system with 12 speakers, 465 watts, and a satellite radioJalopnikoptional 'extended leather' package also covers the dashtop, door panels and other surfacesConsumerGuide The 2009 Audi R8 has plenty of standard and optional features to assuage buyers who will pay over 100 grand for this limited-availability car. Edmunds details the standard features: 19-inch wheels, a retractable rear spoiler (operates automatically or manually), xenon headlights, LED brake lights and turn signals, leather-and-Alcantara suede power-adjustable sport seats, aluminum trim, automatic climate control, and a seven-speaker CD stereo. Model-year 2009 feature changes include now-standard six-CD changer, HomeLink remote, and the aforementioned Bluetooth connectivity system. Audi's navigation system is easy to program (even for a nongeek) and features scalable views such as those found on Google Maps. Audi's MMI controller takes charge of the navigation system and the audio controls, and it's somewhat easier to operate than BMW's similar iDrive controller—but both make TheCarConnection.com's editors long for the days of simple control knobs. Thankfully, for 2009 model R8s, the navigation system is now available separately, but some optional features for the 2009 Audi R8 are not available individually, frustratingly enough; according to Kelley Blue Book, these must be purchased as part of a "package." In the R8, Audi's "Convenience Package" offers a rearview camera, hill-holder clutch, Bluetooth wireless capability, and auto-dimming exterior mirrors. As Cars.com points out, Alcantara (artificial suede) trim can be ordered separately. There is also a "Leather Package" that includes more extensive leather trim in the cabin, along with a 465-watt, 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. ConclusionWith more comforts and conveniences than most exotics, buyers have little to want for in the 2009 Audi R8.  2009 AUDI R8 STYLING | [10 out of 10] Motor Trend: "stunning good looks" Cars.com: "it garnered more unabashed rubbernecking and mouth-breathing than the Italian competition does" Edmunds: "distinctive low-slung design" Kelley Blue Book: "posh interior is loaded with electronics and ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

Looks are deceptive. Although the R8 has an appearance that fits right in with Italian exotics, it isn't so much a competitor to the likes of the Ferrari F430 and Lamborghini Gallardo, as both of those vehicles appeal to a niche group of affluent enthusiasts and collectors who don't expect as much practicality in a vehicle and will wait in line for years for delivery. The Gran Turismo has a larger cabin and a backseat that's large enough for small adults, along with a distinctly Italian style, though it's heavier than the especially nimble R8; unless you’re with enthusiasts in the know, it probably won’t turn heads as much as the R8 either. The Aston is similarly heavier, exclusive, and luxurious, and it's a great grand-touring vehicle. The Porsche 911 remains arguably the most practical choice in the group, with its more spacious front and rear cargo areas, and an enviable record for safety--provided you don't think 911s are a dime a dozen.

Next Steps:

Get a free price quote

for the 2009 Audi R8 from a dealer near you

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2009 Audi R8

Check Financing Rates

for the 2009 Audi R8

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2009 Audi R8 near you

See the Audi R8 in Other Years:

2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008

Comments (0 total)

Be the first to post a comment

Post a comment

Post anonymously, or
(Required)
(Required - will not be published, sold or shared)
(Optional - your 'posted by' name will link to the URL)

Remember Me?

I have read TheCarConnection.com's privacy policy