The Audi R8 is nothing less than a supercar with a pure, clear German spirit. The ballsy, batty Corvette and the sensual, rippling Italia have met their match in the Audi’s swelling fenders and roofline, in those spot-on styling parentheses down the Coupe’s sides, in its nearly faultless handling. Even if the V-10 option has roots in Italy, it’s a perfect fit for the R8’s subtle, suave demeanour.
The R8 pleases drivers in lots of small ways, too. It’s amply big inside, so tall drivers who get cramped in a Maserati will fit with ease. The controls feel light and accurate, like those on the way-back machine of all time, the Acura NSX. Fuel economy, by supercar standards, is excellent.