2014 Audi R8

 2014 Audi R8

 2014 Audi R8

 2014 Audi R8

 2014 Audi R8

2014 is the new S Tronic 7-speed dual clutch transmission. We've always loved the R8's manual transmission, with its delightfully mechanical feel and satisfying metal gated shifter, but the R-tronic automated manual transmission always put us off. Its slow shifts and jerky engagement seemed out of step with the otherwise stellar R8. In bold contrast the 2014 model's new S Tronic dual-clutch automatic performs staggeringly quick yet smooth gear changes while simultaneously improving both acceleration and fuel economy. It works fine in automatic mode, reacts quickly in manual mode (though an audible beep of denial would be nice for premature downshift requests), and in all regards feels better suited to the spirit of Audi's supercar. Like episodes of Sesame Street, we absolutely prefer R8's brought to you by the letter S.

During our two-day jaunt from Misano, past Venice, up through the Austrian Alps, eventually arriving in Munich, Germany, we were reminded of what makes the R8 so special. That is, its adaptability. Yes, it has the power, handling and swagger that supercar buyers demand, but it is also so dang livable. Long days in the saddle didn't wear us out. My frequently achy lower back felt fine for the duration of our trip. The coupe's cabin was quiet enough for easy conversation with my co-driver. Conversation was much more strained with the top down in the R8 Spyder, due completely to the triumphant roar of our car's V10 engine and the high-velocity wind blast. A worthwhile trade off if you ask me. In fact, I'm fairly certain that the two hours or so I spent chasing another journalist at, let's say, "motivated" speeds into the mountains of Northern Italy were the most fun I've had in the past year. The speed. The sound. The supreme feeling of connectedness between driver, vehicle and environment as I closely trailed an identical red V10-powered R8 Spyder across bridges and through echoing tunnels. For those two hours I couldn't imagine being happier and I couldn't imagine a better tool for the job. 

Back to reality, the 2014 Audi R8 is a lot like the current R8 but better. Definitely better. Sometimes you need a revolution. But other times evolution is more appropriate. Revised styling, a new dual-clutch transmission and the addition of a range-topping V10 Plus model help the 2014 Audi R8 remain one of the most desirable aspirational cars in existence. Pricing hasn't yet been released but we're expecting numbers from the low to mid $100,000 range, depending on model. If you have that kind of money to drop on a car, the 2014 R8 is a good way to spend it. And if you don't have that kind of money, remember: people need something to strive for. And for this 34-year-old donkey of a journalist, the 2014 Audi R8 is as enticing a carrot as ever.