The 2012 Audi R8 is a mid-engine, two-seater sports car that debuted in 2006 as Audi's first supercar. It's available as a coupe or Spyder (convertible). The 2012 model year is part of the first generation. Key trims include the V8, V10, and V10 Plus (introduced later). New, the price ranged from approximately $115,000 to over $170,000 depending on trim and options. The R8 stands out for its blend of everyday usability and thrilling performance, coupled with Audi's signature luxury and technology.
The Good
The 2012 Audi R8 delivers exceptional performance with powerful V8 and V10 engine options. Its striking design is visually captivating, while the well-appointed interior offers surprising comfort. While not the most fuel-efficient, the R8 provides a relatively reliable supercar experience. Emotionally, it offers exclusivity and driving excitement. Practically, it's relatively easy to live with compared to some competitors.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 Audi R8 include potential for high maintenance costs, particularly on the V10 models. Magnetic ride suspension can be expensive to repair. Some owners report issues with oil consumption, particularly in early V10s. Inspect the condition of the leather and interior trim, as wear and tear can be noticeable. Be sure to check for any signs of accident damage.
2012 Audi R8: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.2L V8 FSI
- 5.2L V10 FSI
- Horsepower:
- V8: 430 hp
- V10: 525 hp
- Fuel Economy (MPG): (Estimates, may vary)
- V8: 13 city / 20 highway
- V10: 12 city / 19 highway
- 0-60 Times: (Estimates, may vary)
- V8: ~4.5 seconds
- V10: ~3.8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable. The Audi R8 is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- R8 V8: Leather seats, automatic climate control, navigation system, Bang & Olufsen sound system, magnetic ride suspension, heated seats, LED running lights, 19-inch alloy wheels.
- R8 V10: All V8 features plus more aggressive styling, larger brakes, enhanced interior trim, and the more powerful V10 engine.
- R8 Spyder (V8 & V10): Convertible soft top, automatic rollover protection system, and all other corresponding coupe features.
- Common Options: Carbon fiber interior trim, carbon ceramic brakes, different wheel designs, upgraded leather packages, enhanced navigation features, and sport exhaust system.
2012 Audi R8 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Audi |
| Model | R8 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | NECKARSULM |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.2 L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 4.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2012 Audi R8 Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Audi R8, and earlier models, often revolve around maintenance and running costs, which are expectedly high for a supercar. One common concern is oil consumption, particularly in the V10 engines. Some owners have reported excessive oil usage, requiring frequent top-ups. The magnetic ride suspension system, while providing excellent handling, is prone to failure and expensive to repair.
Clutch wear can also be a concern, especially in models with the R tronic automated manual transmission. This transmission can also exhibit jerky or unpredictable behavior in some cases.
Carbon buildup on the intake valves is another potential issue, more prevalent in direct-injection engines like the V8 and V10. This can lead to reduced performance and fuel economy. Regular servicing, including carbon cleaning, may be necessary.
Check for any recalls related to the fuel system or airbags. While Audi R8s are generally considered relatively reliable compared to some other supercars, preventative maintenance is crucial to avoid costly repairs down the line. Pre-purchase inspections by qualified technicians are highly recommended.
Clutch wear can also be a concern, especially in models with the R tronic automated manual transmission. This transmission can also exhibit jerky or unpredictable behavior in some cases.
Carbon buildup on the intake valves is another potential issue, more prevalent in direct-injection engines like the V8 and V10. This can lead to reduced performance and fuel economy. Regular servicing, including carbon cleaning, may be necessary.
Check for any recalls related to the fuel system or airbags. While Audi R8s are generally considered relatively reliable compared to some other supercars, preventative maintenance is crucial to avoid costly repairs down the line. Pre-purchase inspections by qualified technicians are highly recommended.
How long will the 2012 Audi R8 last?
The 2012 Audi R8, with proper maintenance, can easily provide well over 100,000 miles or 10+ years of service. Many owners use the R8 as a weekend or occasional vehicle, resulting in lower average mileage. Long-term durability depends heavily on adherence to recommended service schedules. Key weaknesses over time include potential for costly repairs to the magnetic ride suspension, increased risk of carbon buildup, and potential clutch wear. Regular oil changes and timely replacement of wear items are critical for longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Audi R8 features a driver-focused cockpit with a blend of luxury and performance-oriented technology. Standard features include Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) navigation system, providing access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. The Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers exceptional audio quality. Other standard tech includes automatic climate control, heated seats, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles, focusing primarily on performance enhancement. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Parking sensors are available as an option.
Optional features include a rearview camera (relatively uncommon for this model year), carbon fiber interior trim, and enhanced leather upholstery. Some models may have included upgraded navigation features with real-time traffic updates.
Crash test ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS are not readily available for the Audi R8, due to its low production volume and classification as a supercar. The R8's safety relies more on its advanced engineering and performance capabilities to avoid accidents.
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles, focusing primarily on performance enhancement. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Parking sensors are available as an option.
Optional features include a rearview camera (relatively uncommon for this model year), carbon fiber interior trim, and enhanced leather upholstery. Some models may have included upgraded navigation features with real-time traffic updates.
Crash test ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS are not readily available for the Audi R8, due to its low production volume and classification as a supercar. The R8's safety relies more on its advanced engineering and performance capabilities to avoid accidents.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Brilliant Red
Ibis White
Phantom Black Pearl Effect
Daytona Gray Pearl Effect
Sepang Blue Pearl Effect
Teak Brown Metallic
Suzuka Gray Metallic
Sakhir Gold Metallic
Graphite Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Linen Beige
Black
Cognac Brown
Crimson Red
2012 Audi R8 Prices and Market Value
The 2012 Audi R8 had a starting MSRP of around $115,000 for the V8 coupe and could exceed $170,000 for a fully equipped V10 Spyder. Current used market prices vary widely depending on mileage, condition, and trim. Expect to find V8 models in the $60,000-$80,000 range and V10 models from $80,000 to well over $100,000.
Depreciation has slowed considerably as the R8 has become a sought-after modern classic. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options like carbon ceramic brakes or a manual transmission.
Depreciation has slowed considerably as the R8 has become a sought-after modern classic. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options like carbon ceramic brakes or a manual transmission.
2012 Audi R8 Cost of Ownership
The 2012 Audi R8 is definitely a costly vehicle to own. Insurance premiums are high due to its performance capabilities and value. Fuel consumption is considerable, especially with the V10. Maintenance, including specialized parts and labor, can be expensive. Repairs, particularly for the magnetic ride suspension or R tronic transmission, can be significant. Budget accordingly for tires, brakes, and regular servicing to avoid unexpected expenses. This is not an economical vehicle.
2012 Audi R8 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2012 Audi R8 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Audi R8 Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Audi R8 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Convertible with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Audi R8 Compare to Other Convertible?
Key rivals to the 2012 Audi R8 include the Porsche 911, Ferrari California (and later 458 Italia), Lamborghini Gallardo (sibling car), and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. In terms of performance, the R8 offers comparable acceleration and handling to many of its rivals, though the Ferrari and Lamborghini offer a more raw and visceral experience. Features are broadly similar, with the R8 offering a more user-friendly infotainment system than some of its Italian competitors. Reliability is arguably better than some of its Italian rivals but perhaps slightly less than the Porsche 911.
Price-wise, the R8 often sat in a sweet spot, offering supercar performance at a somewhat lower price point than Ferrari or Lamborghini. The Porsche 911 offers a wider range of models and price points, and can be a more practical daily driver.
Alternatives to consider include a newer Porsche 911 (for similar performance and greater practicality), a used Ferrari 458 Italia (for a more exotic experience, but with potentially higher running costs), or a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (for unique gullwing doors and a powerful V8). A Lamborghini Gallardo shares many components with the R8 V10, offering a different aesthetic and driving experience.
Price-wise, the R8 often sat in a sweet spot, offering supercar performance at a somewhat lower price point than Ferrari or Lamborghini. The Porsche 911 offers a wider range of models and price points, and can be a more practical daily driver.
Alternatives to consider include a newer Porsche 911 (for similar performance and greater practicality), a used Ferrari 458 Italia (for a more exotic experience, but with potentially higher running costs), or a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (for unique gullwing doors and a powerful V8). A Lamborghini Gallardo shares many components with the R8 V10, offering a different aesthetic and driving experience.
Ranks #1097 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1097 | 2012 Audi R8 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Audi R8 a Good Convertible?
The 2012 Audi R8 is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a blend of supercar performance and everyday usability. It's worth buying if you appreciate its distinctive styling, exhilarating performance, and relatively refined driving experience. A used model offers excellent value compared to buying new. Consider a well-maintained V8 for a more budget-friendly option, or a V10 for ultimate performance. Thoroughly inspect any prospective purchase for maintenance history and potential issues, particularly with the magnetic ride suspension and R tronic transmission. It's not for those seeking maximum fuel economy or low running costs.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma