• Only one engine to choose from
• Thirstier than its key rivals
• Servicing and consumables also pricey

What are the running costs?

If you need to ask how much it costs to run a 5.2-litre V10, you probably can’t afford it. Both the Mercedes-AMG GT and Porsche 911 are more economical.

Measures employed to cut fuel bills include a coasting function for the gearbox (where it disconnects from the engine when not in use) and stop/start. It’s still a huge petrol engine though, and such techniques can only achieve so much.

There was only one engine to choose, but it came with two states of tune depending on if you opted for RWD or 4WD.

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The official WLTP for the RWD model (with less power) is 22.2-22.4mpg, while the more powerful 4WD cars get a rating of 21.6-21.7mpg. 

On an 80-mile motorway schlep in a RWD model, we actually beat the WLTP rating and achieved 26mpg. It’s worth remembering we’ve seen more like 15mpg on spirited drives though. The GT edition struggled to match that though, with 15 on a cruise and into the single digits after a real blast in it.

Servicing and warranty

The R8 came with a two-year unlimited-mileage warranty, which was enhanced to a three-year warranty (with a 60,000-mile limit in the third year). It was also possible to upgrade to a four or five-year warranty.

Servicing is expensive, but can be carried out at any Audi dealership nationwide.

Reliability

• Impressive levels of build quality
• Components used elsewhere by Audi
• Has been subject to a recall

There isn’t much to worry about here. Audi R8 reliability should be on par with any of its rivals – if not better. The main engine and gearbox components have been used before so they’re tried-and-tested, while the interior feels robust and of an extremely high quality.

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That said, the solitary recall that the R8 has been subjected to involved a potential oil leak with a gearbox component.

Owners’ forums are regularly filled with minor complaints against rattles and minor niggles.