2009 Audi R8 Quality Review

December 20, 2008

COMFORT AND QUALITY | 10 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

the climate control system will maintain your selected temperature with Teutonic precision
Jalopnik

no noisier overall than some big-power sports sedans
ConsumerGuide

minimalist and no-nonsense
ForbesAutos

not a stitch was spared in making the R8 interior...luxurious and accommodating
Kelley Blue Book

Little was spared in crafting the 2009 Audi R8's interior: It's ergonomically sound and luxurious, and it sports Audi's well-regarded fit and finish.

Kelley Blue Book has only praise for this 2009 Audi R8. The leather seats, inlaid with Alcantara suede, can be adjusted in 10 different ways, so they'll accommodate almost every shape of driver and passenger. The curved roof, like that of the TT, is created with tall occupants in mind, and the design of the cockpit ensures that all controls are easily accessed from the driver's seat.

ForbesAutos is able to fit a 6-foot-5 editor into the seats comfortably and describes the R8 Audi's interior as "minimalist and no-nonsense, yet it's comfortable and exquisitely finished," and notes that buyers can choose a wide range of leathers, colors, and trim to personalize their R8. Automobile Magazine, however, plays down the interior: "The cockpit's design is an acquired taste. There's a lot going on in this somewhat overstyled workstation. Not everyone will love the prominent carbon-fiber (or piano black) arc that swings from the center console across to the driver-side door panel." But ConsumerGuide cites "superb workmanship" that includes "high-quality plastics and fabrics applied with obvious care, plus real-aluminum accents on the dashboard, console, steering wheel and foot pedals."

In its comparison of the Audi R8 with rival Porsche 911, Motor Trend declares that the former's cockpit is the "more ergonomic of the two." Kelley Blue Book feels the "controls couldn't be easier to reach and operate" and notes the seats are "ten-way adjustable."

Although this vehicle is strictly a two-seater, the 2009 R8 Audi offers a 3.5-cubic-foot trunk tucked under the hood, as well as that storage bay behind the seats. Road & Track reports there's plenty of room behind the seats to stash golf clubs or anything else necessary for a weekend getaway. Those editors at Road & Track must have been thinking of miniature golf.

Conclusion

This exotic may be honestly considered a daily driver; its luxurious accommodations and easy-to-live-with controls make driving the 2009 Audi R8 a pleasure rather than work.

COMFORT AND QUALITY | 10 out of 10Expert Quotes:the climate control system will maintain your selected temperature with Teutonic precisionJalopnikno noisier overall than some big-power sports sedansConsumerGuideminimalist and no-nonsenseForbesAutosnot a stitch was spared in making the R8 interior...luxurious and accommodatingKelley Blue Book Little was spared in crafting the 2009 Audi R8's interior: It's ergonomically sound and luxurious, and it sports Audi's well-regarded fit and finish. Kelley Blue Book has only praise for this 2009 Audi R8. The leather seats, inlaid with Alcantara suede, can be adjusted in 10 different ways, so they'll accommodate almost every shape of driver and passenger. The curved roof, like that of the TT, is created with tall occupants in mind, and the design of the cockpit ensures that all controls are easily accessed from the driver's seat. ForbesAutos is able to fit a 6-foot-5 editor into the seats comfortably and describes the R8 Audi's interior as "minimalist and no-nonsense, yet it's comfortable and exquisitely finished," and notes that buyers can choose a wide range of leathers, colors, and trim to personalize their R8. Automobile Magazine, however, plays down the interior: "The cockpit's design is an acquired taste. There's a lot going on in this somewhat overstyled workstation. Not everyone will love the prominent carbon-fiber (or piano black) arc that swings from the center console across to the driver-side door panel." But ConsumerGuide cites "superb workmanship" that includes "high-quality plastics and fabrics applied with obvious care, plus real-aluminum accents on the dashboard, console, steering wheel and foot pedals." In its comparison of the Audi R8 with rival Porsche 911, Motor Trend declares that the former's cockpit is the "more ergonomic of the two." Kelley Blue Book feels the "controls couldn't be easier to reach and operate" and notes the seats are "ten-way adjustable." Although this vehicle is strictly a two-seater, the 2009 R8 Audi offers a 3.5-cubic-foot trunk tucked under the hood, as well as that storage bay behind the seats. Road & Track reports there's plenty of room behind the seats to stash golf clubs or anything else necessary for a weekend getaway. Those editors at Road & Track must have been thinking of miniature golf. ConclusionThis exotic may be honestly considered a daily driver; its luxurious accommodations and easy-to-live-with controls make driving the 2009 Audi R8 a pleasure rather than work.  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.

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See the Audi R8 in Other Years:

2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008

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