Consider the 2010 Audi R8 an entry-level-entry-level only in reputation, possibly. Audi doesn't have the track record of Ferrari, Lamborghini or even the Corvette, but with the R8, and particularly the new V-10-powered R8, it's stepped without hesitation into the rarified world of ultra-performance machines. For the 2010 model year, the R8 adds a V-10 option and a handful of new features. The base price remains $115,400, but V-10 versions top out at $156,300 before options are added.
From its audacious silhouette, to the "sideblades" that give it a vertical visual calling card, the Audi R8 looks every bit the exotic. Its low-flying wedge looks tailor-made for high-speed runs, and typical of Audi, even the most dramatic styling cues play some part in the car's staggering performance. Those sideblades don't merely make a technical appeal to your heart: they cloak extensive ductwork for engine cooling and brake venting. Likewise, the huge wheels staggered in size, front to back, look sharp-and aid in razor-sharp handling. Some frippery exists, but not much-you might call the nose's LED light bar a the glass engine cover that displays the LED-illuminated engine wasteful, but most of us will admire how it puts the powerplant on jewel-box display. The cabin? Useful and distinct in the mode of the original Acura NSX, with a low cowl, at-hand controls and a light touch of style-though plenty of buttons and controls dot the R8's dash. With the new ten-cylinder version comes some light visual differentiation too: the V-10 wears more black and chrome trim, wider side sills, gloss-black sideblades, oval exhaust pipes and a distinct set of gauges, gear shift knob and door handles.http://www.thecarconnection.com/review/1034747_2010-audi-r8-road-test
