Since its debut in the late-2000s, the Audi R8 firmly placed itself as one of the most affordable and applicable supercars ever. Not only does it remain the most subdued supercar but it hoists the distinction of the last V10 production car ever engineered.
As a result of our impending electric overlords, it's well-known the internal combustion engine's days are coming to a close. While the gas-powered engine may still have a decade or two left, the V10 is as good as dead when Audi reveals the successor to the R8 will be completely electric. Audi has even gone so far as to leave the future of the R8 itself hanging in the balance without confirmation if the marque will live on in electrification.
Today, YouTube's quirkiest automotive personality, Doug DeMuro, dives deep into the quirks and features of the R8 in what might be the last V10 engine Doug will ever review.
The Refined Supercar: Audi R8 V10
Coming as no surprise to anyone, especially Doug, the latest Audi R8 V10 expects to be the pinnacle of the supercar's 15-year career. With up to 600 horsepower from the factory, the R8 continues to dominate the everyday supercar driver. Because although this particular R8 is banana yellow, the styling compared to its VAG sibling, the Lamborghini Huaracan, allows drivers to enjoy the commute without the worry of attracting the same attention as a supercar.
Sporting a 0-60 MPH in the mid-three seconds, the R8 is a relic from a bygone era where the automotive rule was "there's no replacement for displacement." As a result of the naturally aspirated V10, the R8 produces one of the best exhaust sounds from the factory. Unfortunately, you can only hear the exhaust when driving thanks to Audi limiting the rev output to 3,000 RPMs at a complete stop.
Now Wave Goodbye, Everybody
Fortunately for us, Doug takes it for his usual spin on the freeway, allowing the 10-cylinder symphony to serenade us to the point where we forget this is the last production V10 ever.
Once seen as the most affordable supercar available, the latest R8 sees its starting price around $150,000 but usually leaves the showroom floor closer to $200,000 after options and specs. A price tag that seems rather high until realizing it could be a great investment due to it being the last V10 produced.
Coming in with an admirable 68/100 on the Dougmeter, the R8 still proves to be the most functional supercar around even if it's considered a relic of the past.