The R8 V10 plus might not look as intimidating or aggressive as its cousins, but, believe me, once you get behind the racing style, flat-bottom steering wheel, everything changes. The interior represents a fighter jet’s cockpit in terms of feel because the design is very driver-focused. Push the start button on the steering wheel and the virtual cockpit lights up right in front of your eyes while, behind you, a beast comes to life. The massive 5.2-litre, 610 PS, 560 Nm, naturally-aspirated V10, mated to a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox, roars majestically before settling into a sweet ‘GRRR’ at idle. It’s as if the car is telling you, “Hold on to your senses, because you are in for a ride.”
It’s not just the soul-stirring sound of the V10 engine that sets the pulse racing. The well-executed design of the cabin also pumps up the curiosity quotient. Like many other supercars, the R8 features a minimalistic dashboard and centre console. Most of the elements are concentrated around the driver with the steering wheel playing a big role. Multiple buttons on it allow you to control systems such as Drive Select, engine start/stop, switchable exhaust note, and a little button marked with a chequered flag that engages pre-saved dynamic settings. It is going to be a sensory treat.
As I took to the track with an aim of taming this beast, I was in for a surprise. The Audi R8 V10 plus may be a supercar, however, the brilliance of German engineering has made it an utterly easy supercar to drive. I was going around the track with such ease that I felt that I was at the helm of a much smaller car. Its agility is simply breath-taking. Quick throttle response, smooth and urgent power delivery and the grip from those tyres was phenomenal. The Audi R8 V10 plus is a supercar that even novice drivers can enjoy without fearing for their life. It’s a car made for the track but feels equally balanced on public roads. It comes with all the features you may expect from a car like this and then some. Truly, the Audi R8 V10 plus is a remarkable car with a versatile character. I certainly enjoyed every moment of it and would recommend everyone at least give it a try if they can.
