The perception of the R8 is mostly positive because it is an Audi. Also, it seems to be right now basically the sports car of YouTubers (by YouTubers I mean those YouTube people who draw a large crowd of teens to subscribe to their channels regarding gaming, cosmetics, whatever).

See what happened to the R8 of a well known "YouTuber" in the US, sad sad sad...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyKbHZPFVII

Btw: I do not know who this guy is but apparently you can make a lot of money with YouTube. 

Another example (his car is OK indecision):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzuBG99AQp4&t=2s

Another one (there are many more):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHSbIhHLJ5s&t=476s

 

Since many young people identify themselves with their YouTube "heroes" Smiley, the R8 is very popular in the age range 12-25...I think. Just a guess though but like you noticed, very positive reaction from people...most of the time.


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RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Porsche 991 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet (2015), Porsche Cayenne S Diesel (2017), Audi R8 V10 Plus (2016), Mini JCW (2015)