These are the latest spy shots of the ultimate high-performance Audi TT, the TT-RS, spotted here running hot laps of the Nürburgring.
Due to launch in early 2010 priced around £45,000, the TT-RS will be powered by VW Group’s new 2.5-litre TSI five-cylinder, which is both turbo and supercharged and offers a heady 343bhp.
Our spies say the new engine sounds every bit the modern successor to the original Audi Sport Quattro five-cylinder.
It should give the TT-RS enough go to dismiss 0-62mph in under five seconds, and outrun the similarly priced Porsche Cayman S.
Naturally the TT-RS will get the Quattro four-wheel-drive, but it will have a rear-bias to better involve the driver.
The development team behind the TT-RS are thought to have binned Audi’s standard-fit magnetic dampers in favour of more performance-oriented alternatives.
They’ve also removed the TT’s (rather useless) rear seats to reduce weight and are trying to lighten up the Quattro drivetrain.
Exterior changes already visible on this prototype car include a new front spoiler with huge air intakes to aid cooling. It also has the signature oval tailpipes fitted to all Audi RS models. Also visible are ceramic brakes although it’s not yet clear whether these will be standard fit.
When the fastest TT is unveiled late next year, expect the finished look to take inspiration from the TT Clubsport concept. That model, though, was a roadster with just 300bhp. For a change, it looks like flourishing Audi is building a production model that outguns even its own concept car.
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Re: Testing: Audi TT-RS
I don't think an RS3 is on the cards. Audi have always stated that they will only produce one RS model at a time, so I'm not sure how that will fit in with future plans.
We currently have the RS6 and the RS5 is on the way, so unless Audi have a change of heart, this is one model we probably won't see.
Re: Testing: Audi TT-RS
Will be interesting to see if this engine makes it into an S3 RS. I suspect Audi (as well as BMW) won't like being beaten in the power stakes by the new Focus RS, especially when it undercuts them on price.
Re: Testing: Audi TT-RS
Agree with you, the rumour is that its a 2 stage turbo setup.
Its also been said by the VW engineers that the twin-charger setup (supercharger + turbo) loses all it efficiency benefits on anything over 1.8ltrs.
...but, we'll have to wait and see.
Ignore the rumour about this car gaining the new S4 derived 3.0 V6 that has been touted on other websites (I'd like to see Audi try and cram that wide angle V6 in the transverse engine bay of the TT - that would be an engineering feat!!)