Audi Unveils TT RS Models in Beijing
Things are shaking up at Audi’s RS division, as evidenced by the new TT RS coupe and roaster unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show by non-other than Stefan Winkelmann, head of the Audi Sport division.
Tasked with representing the line-up’s dynamism and sport aptitudes, the TT RS is once again calling on a 2.5L five-cylinder turbo. But this time the engineers decided to build an engine specifically for the model—with an aluminum block.
“This new, all-aluminum five-cylinder engine generates 400 horsepower, which is 60 more than its predecessor,” explained Stefan Knirsch, who is part of the team overseeing technical development. Maximum torque is 354 lb.-ft., available from 1700 to 5850 rpm. This engine will eventually make its way to the RS 3, the juiced up version of the A3.
Incidentally, those 400 ponies are 25 better than the 2.0L four-cylinder turbo found in some Mercedes-Benz AMG models. This proves that the rivalry between the German brands is still alive and strong. Also included are quattro all-wheel drive and the S tronic seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. A manual gearbox is conspicuously absent. The 0-100 km/h sprint takes just 3.7 seconds for the coupe and 3.9 for the slightly heavier roadster.
The TT RS’ looks are in line with its performance: a fixed rear spoiler, 19-inch wheels (20 inchers on option) and dual exhausts are all there, as to be expected. Once you slide in, you’ll immediately notice the Audi virtual cockpit with its 12.3-inch colour screen. To start the engine, press the button on the steering wheel, just like in the sporty R8.
The TT RS also boasts new innovative technology: optional organic light emitting diode (OLED) tail lights that offer homogenous luminosity and high contrast.
The new TT RS models will hit the European market in fall 2016. Prices will start at €66,400 for the coupe and €69,200 for the roadster. We won’t see these two in Canadian dealerships until 2017, and Canadian prices have yet to be announced.
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