Beijing show: Audi fires up TT RS

AUDI has uncovered its new TT RS sportscar flagship at the Beijing motor show revealing a new-generation version of its feisty five-cylinder engine that brings a whopping 294kW and 480Nm to the iconic model, ahead of its arrival in Australia in mid 2017.

As reported by GoAuto, the new 2.5-litre five-pot is not a tuned-up version of the engine that powers the current RS3 hatchback and RS Q3 small SUV, but a completely redesigned unit that adopts alloy construction in place of the previous iron block.

With an additional 44kW over the iron 2.5-litre, the new TT RS can dash from zero to 100km/h in 3.7 seconds or 3.9s when in convertible Roadster form, and has the potential to reach a top speed of 250km/h or 280km/h if you ask Audi to increase the limiter.

Like the rest of the range, the glut of power is sent to all four corners courtesy of the quattro all-wheel-drive system and an S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It is offered with 19-inch wheels as standard fare but these can be upgraded to 20-inch versions as an option.

The hoops house standard iron disc brakes but can these too can be upgraded to ultra-high-performance carbon-ceramic discs.

Four Drive Select modes allow the steering, gearbox, suspension and engine characteristics to be altered for different driving styles, including the bi-modal exhaust that, according to Audi, showcases the unique five-cylinder sound best. RS sport suspension with magnetic dampers is optional.

RS versions of Audi's sportscar are distinguishable from its TT and TTS brethren by larger air inlets, a new honeycomb grille, fixed rear spoiler, more aerodynamic side sills and RS-typical large oval tailpipes at either side of the rear.

As another visual and practical enhancement, Audi has, for the first time in one of its series production models, included optional organic LED matrix tail-lights, which complement the all-LED headlights with “extremely homogeneous, high-contrast light”.

On the inside, the new TT RS shares the same equipment as the TTS but adds a unique RS view in the company's Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, which highlights the tachometer as well as providing high-performance driving statistics, including a G-meter and shift-light.

RS sport leather steering wheel and sports seats complete the cabin modifications. Unlike the rest of the TT range, the special RS steering wheel accommodates the Drive Select and engine start buttons, which is similar to Ferrari's approach.

Audi MMI navigation is included as standard, as is free text search, natural voice control, Wi-Fi internet hotspot, wireless inductive phone charging, smartphone interface and connectivity and a range-topping Bang & Olufsen stereo system.

Exact local specifications and Australian pricing will be announced closer to the variants' arrival next year, but the TT RS is expected to carry a price premium over the TTS Coupe which is $99,900 before on-road costs and the $103,900 Roadster.

The previous-generation TT RS coupe was priced from $139,900.

After its TT RS debut, the new five-cylinder engine is expected to appear next in the forthcoming sedan version of the RS3.