2023 Audi R8

Audi’s V10 supercar, the R8, continues as one the most exhilarating and user-friendly mid-engine exotics on the market. But it seems 2023 will be the last year for this fuel-sucking masterpiece as Audi, along with the rest of the automotive world, heads toward an all-electric future. There are rumours of a special 2023 final-edition send-off. The RWD drive model gets standard sport exhaust for 2023, and the quattro get standard magnetic ride. A new 20-inch alloy design is offered on both.

Performance

The R8’s 5.2L naturally-aspirated V10 engine defines this two-seat rocket. It spins to 8300 rpm and makes a noise that will echo through the ages. There are two states of tune – the rear-wheel-drive models make 562 horsepower and 406 lb-ft, while the quattro variant gets a boost to 602 horses and 413 lb-ft. A 7-speed dual-clutch auto is the only transmission. The R8 is stable, surprising comfortable and imminently exploitable. For the purest experience, opt for the RWD car.

Practicality

Not much of that. There’s a small frunk and almost no interior storage. Hey, it’s a mid-engine supercar.

Canadian Pricing

Until the new Corvette Stingray came along, the Audi R8 was the bargain mid-engine exotic. Yet, when looking at its kissing cousin, the Lamborghini Huracan, the R8 still offers great value. And one of the greatest internal-combustion engines fashioned by mankind. The 2023 Audi R8 is available as both Coupe and Spyder (convertible), and either can be had with rear or all-wheel drive. Pricing ranges from $176,000 for the RWD Coupe to $245,150 for the quattro Spyder.