iOS App of the Day: XLR8

After downloading the app and purchasing the 4-pack of engines (I had to try them all) you will have to connect your iPhone, iPod or iPad to your car stereo to get moving. Once the app is connected it, uses the accelerometers of your device to realistically respond to acceleration, braking and cornering forces. You choose the engine and in an instant you will hear authentic sound effects to simulate what it would sound like if you were actually driving that supercar of your dreams. The app audio revs up when you start your engine as a supercar would and idles when you are stopped at red lights. Basically, throughout my test drive XLR8 monitors the acceleration of your car and corresponds appropriately with its engine sound effects. XLR8 uses Hollywood recordings and there’s no denying the quality of these engine sounds. Primarily the app is intended to be used in your car while you drive, but can also be used on manual mode when you aren’t cruising around town with the windows down.

 

The App comes with the Classic V8 muscle car, but you will have to use in app purchases to unlock the other cars. A NASCAR engine, Ford GT40, Ferrari and Lamborghini are all available as in-app purchases. This is disappointing, as I was hoping for access to more car engines than just the V8 muscle car with my $0.99 app purchase. Luckily, fans of the app will save almost 50% when they purchase the 4-pack.

The use of Hollywood quality records really sets this particular app apart from any of its competitors. The engine effects sound real and my friends were pretty astounded when I had them sit in my SUV and all of sudden it sounded exactly like a Ferrari. Users can tweak engine performance by adjusting the shift point and gear ratios, which is a nice touch by the developer. Oh, and for anyone just dying to burn out their tires you can do that also with this app minus the actual burnt rubber smell. Overall, XLR8 is perfect for anyone who has ever had supercar envy or who is simply a car enthusiast looking to have a little fun on your weekend road-trips with the family. I hope XLR8 picks up popularity so we can see some added car engines for free in the future.