Audi R8 2022 Review

The 2022 Audi R8 is a sleek and powerful V10-powered performance car from the automaker's storied Audi Sport division. This is the same group that's been building performance Audis since the early 1980s. In addition to the R8 coupe and drop-top R8 Spyder, the saints in Audi Sport have blessed us with cars such as the Audi RS 5 coupe, RS Q8 SUV and the wicked Audi RS 6 Avant wagon. The second-gen R8 coupe and Spyder have gotten a number of updates over the years, including updated styling and extra horsepower in 2020 for all-wheel-drive models and more affordable rear-wheel-drive models in 2021. For 2022, the base rear-wheel-drive models get a bump in power too, up 30 horsepower and 8 lb-ft of torque over last year's model.

The R8 may look exotic with its mid-engine layout, sharp styling and wonderful exhaust note, but it's a surprisingly practical and comfortable car in day-to-day driving. Like the Porsche 911, the R8 feels just as at home cruising city streets as it does blasting up and down a winding road. We really don't have many complaints, though we do wish the R8 was available with some of the latest tech and driver aids Audi offers in other models.

Besides the Porsche 911, the R8 competes against sports cars including the Mercedes-AMG GT, Acura NSX and the BMW M8. Each one has its own feel and character, and there's honestly not a bad one in the bunch. But the R8, with its naturally aspirated V10 engine, still shines bright thanks to Audi's continuous updates since its debut. 

Which R8 does MatoCar recommend?

The 2022 Audi R8 is a two-seat mid-engine sports car available as both a coupe and convertible, the latter of which uses a power-operating soft top and is dubbed the R8 Spyder. The two trim levels are the R8 V10 Performance RWD, which is rear-wheel-drive, and the R8 V10 Performance Quattro, which is all-wheel-drive. Features are identical for both the coupe and convertible.

R8 RWD Power comes from a 5.2-liter V10 engine now making 562 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque paired to seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Standard feature highlights include:

• 20-inch wheels
• Power-folding, heated mirrors with auto dimming
• Auto-deploying rear spoiler
• Automatic climate control
• Leather upholstery
• Heated seats
• Digital instrument panel
• Navigation system
• Satellite radio
• Wireless charging pad with signal booster
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
• Automatic high beams
• Front and rear parking sensors

The RWD model is also available with a few packages, including:

• Premium package
• Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
• Faux suede interior treatments
• Extended leather upholstery
• Dynamic package
• Carbon-ceramic brakes
• Upgraded leather upholstery
• Nappa leather-wrapped racing seats with fixed backrests

R8 V10 Performance Quattro Besides including the Dynamic package as standard equipment, the R8 Quattro gets a power increase (602 hp, 413 lb-ft). It also has:

• All-wheel drive
• Fixed rear spoiler
• Sport exhaust system
• Upgraded headlights
• Carbon-fiber accents
• Optional fully adjustable sport seats