2010 Audi R8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2010 Audi R8 is the arrival of the 5.2 Quattro coupe with a 525-hp V10. The existing V8 model is renamed 4.2 Quattro, but the R8 does not receive a full redesign or broad mechanical update.
About the 2010 Audi R8
1st generation (Type 42, 2008-2015), early pre-facelift year; third U.S. model year for the R8 coupe and first year for the 5.2 V10 trim.
Audi positions the R8 as a supercar shaped by Le Mans racing know-how but made easier to live with than many exotics. The 2010 brochure leans on its mid-engine layout, quattro all-wheel drive, careful cabin craftsmanship, and dramatic looks rather than raw numbers alone. For most shoppers, the R8’s appeal is that it blends exotic-car presence and serious performance with Audi-style fit and finish and more all-weather confidence than many rear-drive rivals.
The 2010 lineup pairs the core 420-hp 4.2 Quattro V8 with the more powerful and richly equipped 525-hp 5.2 Quattro V10. Both have all-wheel drive and an adaptive suspension, while the V10 model stands out with full LED headlights, Fine Nappa leather, navigation, Bang & Olufsen audio, and a rearview camera.
What changed, by category
2010 Audi R8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.2 Liter | V10, 5.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Auto, 6-Spd Seq Shft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 12 mpg | 12 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 525 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 391 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 3.5 cu-ft | 3.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Hill Start Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| SD Card Slot | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 Audi R8?
The biggest change is the addition of the 5.2 Quattro coupe, powered by a 525-hp V10. It becomes the more powerful and better-equipped model above the V8-powered 4.2 Quattro.
Is the 2010 Audi R8 a redesign?
No. The 2010 R8 remains part of the first-generation, pre-facelift lineup. Its main update is the addition of the V10-powered 5.2 Quattro rather than a redesign of the whole model line.
What is the difference between the 2010 R8 4.2 Quattro and 5.2 Quattro?
The 4.2 Quattro has a 420-hp V8, while the 5.2 Quattro has a 525-hp V10 and more standard equipment. V10 highlights include full LED headlights, Fine Nappa leather, navigation, Bang & Olufsen audio, parking sensors, and a rearview camera.
Did the previous Audi R8 Quattro disappear for 2010?
No. The previous R8 Quattro continues for 2010 under the clearer 4.2 Quattro name, reflecting its 4.2-liter V8. The 5.2 Quattro is the newly added V10 model.
Do both 2010 Audi R8 trims have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Both the 2010 R8 4.2 Quattro and 5.2 Quattro have Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, along with an adaptive suspension.