The Highlight is the Uprated Engine

Audi's 2-door sports model, theTTis currently in its third generation. Unveiled at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, it was introduced in Japan in August 2015. The models announced at the Beijing Motor Show are the "RS" models, the pinnacle of the series, available in both coupe and roadster variants. Development and manufacturing were handled by quattro GmbH, a wholly-owned subsidiary that specializes in Audi's sports models. As a special model within the Audi lineup, it boasts refined driving dynamics.

Among the many special tunings for the new "TT RS Coupe" and "TT RS Roadster," the most distinctive technological feature is likely the newly developed 2.5-liter inline-5 turbo engine, which boasts a 60ps increase over the second-generation TT RS.

While the displacement remains the same at 2,480cc as the previous "TT RS Plus," output has been increased by 17 percent through measures such as reduced internal friction and revisions to the intake and exhaust systems, resulting in a maximum output of 294kW (400ps) and a peak torque of 480Nm (48.9kgm). The coupe accelerates from 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds (3.9 seconds for the roadster) and reaches a top speed of 250km/h, which can be increased to 280km/h upon request.

This engine is also notable for its compact design, measuring under 500mm in length. It is 26kg lighter than the previous engine. Furthermore, the crankcase is made of lightweight aluminum, weighing only 26kg on its own, and the bearing surfaces for the shafts are extremely thin at 6mm. The engine, lighter and more powerful, contributes to a lower center of gravity and agile handling.

Aggressive Design is Also a Charm

While the displacement, cylinder count, and turbo configuration remain the same, the transmission paired with this newly evolved engine is Audi's familiar 7-speed S tronic (DCT). Naturally, this has also been evolved and improved to match the TT RS's performance. Audi describes the shift timing and performance of the 7-speed S tronic with the phrase "lightning fast." This creates a powertrain befitting the top model of the TT series.

Meanwhile, the drivetrain employs the "quattro" full-time 4WD system, as with previous TT RS models. Torque distribution and control are also managed by TT RS-specific programming, and the "Audi drive select" system allows for adjustments to engine output management, S tronic shift speeds, exhaust sound, and steering characteristics. Drivers can choose from four driving modes: Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual (allowing for custom settings), depending on their mood and driving conditions.

There is another point worth noting: the more aggressive exterior design.

The air intakes on both sides of the front bumper are now larger, and a silver lip spoiler, contrasting with the body color, is equipped. At a glance, it presents a different appearance from the previousTTmodels, emphasizing its special presence as a top model. Both the coupe and roadster come standard with a fixed rear wing, and the oval exhaust tips are also a finish exclusive to the "TT RS."

Both the coupe and roadster come standard with 19-inch 5-spoke design wheels fitted with 245/35R19 tires. Optional 20-inch lightweight 7-spoke wheels are available. When opting for the 20-inch wheels, the tire size is upgraded to 255/30R20.

The brakes are equipped with standard 370mm front and 310mm rear ventilated discs. Carbon-ceramic brake discs are also available as an option when selecting the 20-inch wheels.

OLEDs Adopted for the First Time in a Production Model

Additionally, for the TT RS, Audi has introduced Matrix OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) rear lights as an option, marking the first time for a production Audi model. The OLEDs, which generate uniform light with high contrast, feature a distinctive design where four quadrilaterals decrease in size from the inside out. This illumination, creating a three-dimensional visual effect, makes the reflectors, which were always standard on previous models, unnecessary in this advanced taillight unit.

The lightweight body is also a point of pride for the TT RS, with the coupe model weighing 1,440kg and the roadster 1,530kg. Notably, the soft top for the roadster weighs just 39kg. This electric soft top can be opened or closed while driving at speeds up to 50km/h.

Inside, the TT RS-specific sports seats with diamond pattern stitching and the matching exclusive color schemes such as black/grey, black/red, and brown/grey further enhance the TT RS's special character. Like other TT series models, it is equipped with the Audi Virtual Cockpit, featuring a 12.3-inch monitor as the instrument cluster, creating an advanced driving environment. The optional Bang & Olufsen sound system also adds a touch of luxury befitting the TT RS.

Deliveries in Europe will commence this autumn. The price is set at 66,400 euros for the coupe model (approximately 8.37 million yen) and 69,200 euros for the roadster (approximately 8.72 million yen). The Japanese launch is anticipated for mid-2017.