The Audi R8 which made its international debut in 2006 was born of powerful ideas three years before that, as a concept car called the Le Mans Quattro. The 2008 Audi R8 is a two-door, two-passenger, mid-engine coupe. New features for the 2008 model include powerful engines, innovative design, all-wheel-drive, and an aluminum body.

The 2008 Audi R8 is available in two trims, the Coupe Quattro and the Coupe Quattro with Auto R tronic. Both are equipped with a midmounted 4.2-liter V-8 engine that makes 420 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque. Power is pumped to all four wheels through either a traditional six-speed manual or Audi's six-speed R tronic transmission with automated shifting and clutch. The R8 sprints to 60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds, while its top speed of 187 mph arrives not much later.

The Audi R8 has an aluminum body structure. Its engine is surrounded by carbon-fiber trim and ambient lighting. Audi's jaunty front grille, 19-inch wheels, retractable rear spoiler (operates automatically or manually), xenon headlights, LED brake lights and turn signals, automatic climate control, power-adjustable sport seats, and a seven-speaker CD stereo are some of the standard features of the R8. The Convenience Package contains parking sensors, a six-disc CD changer, hill holder assist, HomeLink transceiver, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and auto-dimming rearview mirrors. The R8 models' long wheelbase and interiors provide plenty of leg room and storage space unlike other sports cars.

Seat-mounted side airbags and knee-protecting airbags protect all occupants in the 2008 Audi R8. Anti-lock disc brakes, traction control, and stability control are some standard safety features.