A mid-engine,all-wheel-drive luxury sports coup?,the Audi R8 was designed by the manufacturer?s high-performance subsidiary,quattro GmbH,and is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo platform. First introduced in 2007,this two-seater is known for its unique exterior design theme,highlighted by its signature side blades. For 2010,Audi introduced a new 5.2-liter V10 engine to go with its standard 4.2-liter 420-hp V8.

The two trim levels for the 2010 Audi R8 are based on its engines. The 4.2 Quattro model features 19-inch wheels,xenon headlights,carbon fiber trim inside and out,leather and Alcantara upholstery,power-adjustable sport seats,a sports suspension,a seven-speaker sound system,and Bluetooth connectivity. The 5.2 Quattro,in addition to its more powerful engine,has a ""hill-holder"" feature with its manual transmission,slightly different accents and finishes,Nappa leather upholstery,a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system,a navigation system,and a rearview camera with front and rear parking sensors. Most of those upgrades are available as options on the 4.2 trim. In both models,there?s some cargo space behind the two seats as well as a front trunk measuring 3.5 cu. ft.

New for 2010 is the 525-hp V10 engine,which produces 391 lb.-ft. of torque and revs to 8,700 rpm. The standard 420-hp V8 engine delivers 317 lb. -ft. of torque. Both come with standard all-wheel drive and a choice of a six-speed manual transmission or Audi's R tronic six-speed automated manual transmission.

EPA estimates for the 4.2 Quattro R8 are 12 mpg in the city,19 mpg highway,and 15 mpg combined with the manual transmission. The 5.2 Quattro with the manual transmission offers 12 mpg in the city,20 mpg highway,and 15 mpg combined. Safety features include ABS,traction control,antiskid system,side airbags,and knee airbags.

The 2010 Audi R8 started at $114,200.