The 2012 Audi R8 GT 5.2 quattro is a All-wheel drive Coupe. It can accommodate up to 2 passengers. It has 2 Doors and is powered by a 5.2L V10 DOHC 40-valve engine which outputs 560 hp @ 8000 rpm and is paired with 6-speed automated sequential transmission with manual mode gearbox. The 2012 Audi R8 GT 5.2 quattro has cargo capacity of 100 Liters and the vehicle weighs 1635 kg. In terms of ride assists, the 2012 Audi R8 GT 5.2 quattro has stability control and traction control in addition to anti-lock brake system (ABS). The vehicle has an optional engine as well It offers Advanced parking system and. Safety features also include Driver-side front airbag and Passenger-side front airbag. The front suspension is Front independent suspension while the rear suspension is Resr independent suspension. The car also features a Yes It has 19'' inch 10-spoke Y design aluminum alloy wheels as standard. Electronic features include Cruise Control. For convenience, the car has Power windows and Power door locks. There is also a remote keyless entry feature. Moreover, the car has. The steering wheel has audio control buttons. In terms of performance, the car has 612 N.m of torque and a top speed of 303 km/h. The 2012 Audi R8 GT 5.2 quattro accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and hits quarter mile at 10.4 seconds. Fuel consumption is 17 L/100km in the city and 11.4 L/100km in the highway. The car price starts at $ 228,000
In our opinion, the V8-powered R8 4.2 is actually the pick of the litter. Its capabilities are still far beyond those of most mortals. And starting at about $ 115,000, it represents a relative bargain in the supercar realm. Of course, there are some drawbacks, and they apply to the entire R8 lineup. Cargo space is limited, making the R8 a poor road trip choice. Around town, the R tronic automated manual transmission is unforgivably clunky, and the outdated navigation system interface will have you wishing Audi's newer electronics suites made it over to the R8.
Even with these drawbacks, though, the 2012 Audi R8 still shines brightly among other exotics. And really, there isn't a loser in the bunch. Whether you're talking less expensive or similarly priced models like the 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2012 Nissan GT-R or 2012 Porsche 911, or higher-end exotics like the 2012 Ferrari 458 Italia, 2012 Lamborghini Gallardo, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C and 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, it's pretty much impossible to go wrong.
The 2012 Audi R8 is a two-seat exotic supercar available in 4.2 Coupe, 4.2 Spyder, 5.2 Coupe, 5.2 Spyder and GT 5.2 Coupe trim levels.
Standard equipment on the 4.2 Coupe includes 19-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, cruise control, automatic xenon headlights, LED running lights, automatic wipers, automatic climate control, heated 10-way power seats (with four-way power-adjustable lumbar), leather and faux suede upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and a seven-speaker sound system with six-CD changer, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The Convenience package adds hill-start assist, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors and interior storage nets. Also optional are LED headlights, carbon-ceramic brakes, a fully leather-upholstered interior, a navigation system, iPod interface and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
The 4.2 Spyder adds an electrically powered soft top and a retractable rear window that doubles as a wind deflector. The R8 5.2 Coupe and Spyder add a V10 engine, different suspension tuning, different wheels, LED headlights and slight differences in exterior details. The GT 5.2 will initially be offered only as a coupe, and only 90 examples are destined for the U.S. market. A Spyder version is expected later in the year.
The 5.2 models also include the 4.2 options as standard, minus the all-leather upholstery and carbon-ceramic brakes. A variety of carbon-fiber exterior and interior trim packages are available on all models, while the coupes can be equipped with alternate "side blade" finishes.
The 2012 Audi R8 4.2 is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 mounted behind the passenger compartment that sends 430 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque through an all-wheel-drive system. A six-speed manual transmission with a gated metal shifter is standard, while a six-speed single-clutch automated manual known as R tronic is optional. In performance testing, the R8 4.2 with either transmission went from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy rings in at 11 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 14 mpg combined with the manual and 13/21/16 with R tronic.
The Audi R8 5.2 gets a 5.2-liter V10 that produces 525 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. It has the same transmission choices. In performance testing, the 5.2 Coupe with the manual went from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, while the 5.2 Spyder with the manual did it in 3.9 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 12/19/14 with the manual and 13/19/15 with R tronic. The R8 GT 5.2 boosts power output to 560 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. The R tronic is the only transmission offered. Audi estimates a 0-60-mph time of 3.6 seconds.
Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, side airbags and knee airbags. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are available.
In brake testing, multiple R8s have come to a stop from 60 mph in a range between 104 and 108 feet, which is very good.
The 2012 Audi R8 rides firmly despite its adaptive suspension, and road noise is pronounced relative to most other Audis. By exotic car standards, though, the R8 is remarkably comfortable as a daily driver, and visibility is surprisingly good in all directions. On twisting roads, the R8's preposterous power, quick reflexes and heroic grip conspire to make this 3,600-pound supercar feel almost as nimble as a lightweight roadster.
Speaking of power, the V10 adds an appreciable amount, as well as a uniquely racy soundtrack, but even the base V8 is one of the best-sounding and most tractable engines we've experienced. We can't recommend the outdated single-clutch R tronic gearbox, as its slow-witted, cranky upshifts make the car sluggish and clumsy when driven around town. The conventional manual transmission, on the other hand, is a joy to operate, featuring an excellent mechanical feel augmented by a loud, metallic "clack-clack"as you row through the exposed gates. We strongly suggest that you get the manual.
While the V10-powered models do provide a performance advantage, we can't justify the additional outlay of cash in light of how truly good the V8 versions are. Furthermore, unless you're spending an unusual amount of time at a racetrack, where hundredths of a second actually means something, we'd pass on the R8 GT 5.2 as well. The GT's weight reduction regimen reduces some of its everyday appeal, with significantly less sound insulation and a slightly jarring ride.
Even with the "least" powerful engine – a 430-horsepower V8 – the 2012 R8 feels responsive and powerful. Downshifting is rarely necessary, as torque is plentiful and spread throughout the rev range. As good as the V8 is, we are enamored with the prodigious power, brutal acceleration and the sheer sound of the V10 engine in the Audi R8 5.2. Driving enthusiasts capable of working a clutch will find the manual transmission – complete with a metal gate – more satisfying than the surprisingly unrefined optional R tronic automatic. Regardless of which transmission you choose, the Audi R8 is as fast as it looks. A V8-powered R8 coupe will zoom from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, while those with the V10 can hit that benchmark in just 3.7 seconds. Convertible R8s are a tick slower and GTs slightly faster. The R8 benefits from an electronic differential lock (EDL), and uses speed-dependent electromechanical power steering. Audi's rear-biased all-wheel-drive system keeps the car planted and the large front and rear brakes make quick work of bringing it to a stop.
BEJEWELED POWERPLANTBoth the mid-mounted V8 and V10 engines are fine partners for the 2012 Audi R8 and, because they sit under a glass panel instead of a metal hood, they can be gazed upon like automotive jewelry.METAL-GATED 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSIONThe Audi R8's transmission has well-chosen ratios, but the icing on the cake is the metal gate that surrounds the shifter and provides a satisfying "clink" as each shift is completed.
Though it still boasts performance intentions, the R8's cabin is as luxurious and accommodating as those found in Audi's high-end sedans. Inside are supportive, 10-way Alcantara/leather seats and an ingenious seatbelt-mounted microphone system that allows for hands-free talking. Controls are within easy reach of the driver, particularly the metal-gated shifter on models with manual transmission. Not surprisingly, cargo space isn't exactly copious, but there is space for two golf bags behind the front seats, in addition to the 3.53-cubic-foot luggage compartment under the front hatch.
The 2012 Audi R8 sits wide and low with a forward cabin to accommodate the engine in the rear. The R8 features a curvaceous hood and roof that form one sweeping arc. Spyder versions of the R8 have a black fabric power-folding top that can open or close in 19 seconds while the car travels at speeds up to 31 mph. When folded, the top is protected by a carbon fiber cover. One of the R8's most notable design features is the vertical "sideblade" that stands out even more with its contrasting color. LED running lights give the 2012 R8 a sinister look and sit flush with the giant air intakes below. Audi's design of its supercar works well today and should continue to stand out for many years to come.
The R8 comes standard with Audi's signature quattro all-wheel drive, 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights, leather/Alcantara seats, Bluetooth seatbelt microphone and a magnetic ride system. Versions with the 5.2-liter V10 have a rear-view camera, navigation system, Nappa leather seats and a superb, 465-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system. Spyder versions have a power-folding fabric roof that can be opened or closed in 19 seconds, even while the car is in motion.
Audi R8 models can be further spruced up with package-based options, including one that covers more of the interior in leather, another that clads portions of the car in carbon fiber and one that fits the car with ceramic brakes. The packages can add on several thousand dollars each, with the brake package alone costing nearly $ 10,000 extra. To get navigation on the V8-powered R8, you'll need to check the box for the $ 2,000-plus nav package.
In 2012, the Audi R8 got a mild refresh, coming with redesigned LED headlights, LED taillamps, bumpers and grille along with mirror casings, sideblades and sills. Just like its V8-powered twin, the Audi R8 V10 got updated in 2012. On December 9, Audi introduced the 5.2L V10 FSI petrol engine on the successful R8 exotic model. The car's design suffered minor retouches in order to set it apart from the version equipped with the 4.2L V8. As expected the car's performance has been upped, with the powerhouse developing 525 hp now and 391 ft-lbs. of peak torque. That enables the sporty R8 to achieve a 0 to 62 mph time of just 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph. The car's superb control is assured by its careful weight distribution and quattro all-wheel drive traction. Audi launched its brand new R8 model at the 2006 Paris Auto Show.
Shower gels and generally beauty-product brands have a way of appealing to customers by thrusting desire through sensorial-related names and presentation of their offers. Olfactory sense-stroking balms and soothing cashmere-touch night cream-approaches are basically the most commonly used methods of conveying beauty and easy customer-access to deeply-rooted sensorial pampering, unless beauty is forged out of steel and thousands of accurately engineered parts.
Automobiles undoubtedly fall into the latter category, and what better way of striking at least one of the remaining three senses if not building an image of a mighty engine roar or purr of a loyal cylinder sextet cradled under the bonnet of an Audi car? Audi translates as 'listen' from latin and besides expressing an unanimously accepted passion of the motorist, that of listening to the engine as if it were a never before heard dissertation on mechanics blended with boisterous 'deux ex machina' comments and demonstrations, it also marks the birth of Audi following Horch's demise, the previous name of the company that can be traced back to 1899.
Its founder, August Horch was forced out of his own company in 1909 due to trademark infringements, 8 years after the first automobile had rolled out the gates of the plant in Zwickau, Germany. After having been dispensed of, Horch started his own company under the same name which led to a fair share of trouble that came to an end as soon as Horch called for a meeting at the apartment of Franz Fikentscher to discuss the matter and come up with a new name for the company. Franz's son who was studying latin at the time was the true deliverer of the name that would later became synonymous with luxury and quality. As 'Horch' means listen in Old German, the boy simply made a switched the name with its latin corespondent, 'audi', sparking enthusiasm into the 'audience' that quickly adopted the name.
Audi's start o the German market was high lighted by the appearance of 2.6 liter engine powered vehicles followed by a series of more powerful ones, such as 4.7 L and the gas-gulping 5.7 L. Having gotten to see his company grow wings, Horch left in in 1920, four years before Audi's first 6 cylinder model was built. In 19128, Audi was acquired By Jorgen Rasmussen, owner of rival company DKW.
A few years later, a merger between Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer occurred and thus, the Auto Union was formed in 1932. Those times called for a new badge and the four interlocked rings were born as a sign of unity and identity of the newly formed auto-conglomerate. Technological improvement became a top priority that first took shape during the Second World War when an armored car was produced for the German Army.
However, all the progress would soon be severely slowed down and even halted at times due to heavy bombings. Moreover, as as soon as the conflict had come to an end, Zwickau had been caught in the soviet occupation zone that would become The German Democratic Republic in 1949. Not only that the company's activity was in jeopardy but the Auto Union had also broken up and the Union had to be restarted n new grounds, in Ingolstadt, Bavaria.
Though sluggish at first, the newly Ingolstadt based factory would attract many of the former workers and the construction of two-stroke engines would be resumed in a way similar to that of Zwickau. By 1958, Daimler-Benz had already acquired a whopping 87% of the Auto Union but its investment quickly became property of Volkswagen, the company having bought the factory and and the brands in 1964.
Soon after the change of ownership, two-stroke engines would be eliminated in favor of the more popular and more customer appealing four-stroke ones. DKW, the leading brand of the Union at the time failed as a brand despite of the changes it had made and Volkswagen decided to resurrect Audi. The former DKW built model was rebranded as an Audi one and was the springboard for the make of later models such as the 60, 75 and 80.
After a second merger with the Stuttgart based car-producer NSU by 1970, Audi established itself as a reliable growing brand that would later break the German boundaries and expand to new markets, including the North American one where it encountered difficulties following the release of a biased report that portrayed the car as suffering form 'unintended acceleration'. This was caused by the close placement of the brake and acceleration pedals, right next to each other. Shortly after the report was released , an abrupt decline in sales was registered that was countered only years later with the 1996 release of the A4 model.
Joining a row of successful car-producers, Audi has also garnered acclaim on the racing track with several World Record holdings, including one for Top Speed Endurance. Audi is currently enjoying a privileged position and large market share and is predicted to reach the production threshold of 1 million units by the end of this year.
