Unleashed in the East

The unveiling of a new model is always an exciting event, but to have two new models unveiled at once caused quite a stir at the Beijing International Motor Show over the weekend. That the two new vehicles in question hailed from the iconic TT range made the event that much more significant – that they are RS models… 

Topping the TT range, these two new RS models further build on the performance credentials of Audi’s iconic sports car, boasting a new version of the the multi-award winning five-cylinder TFSI engine. Audi’s 2.5 litre TFSI engine has been voted Engine of the Year for the last six consecutive years and in its new incarnation produces a massive 294kW of power – 44kW more than its predecessor and an equally impressive 480Nm of torque between 1,700 and 5,850rpm to deliver blistering performance in these stunning RS models.

The Audi TT RS Coupé accelerates zero to 100km/h in an incredible 3.7 seconds, while its Roadster sibling completes the same run in just 3.9 seconds. Both have a governed top speed of 250km/h which can be increased to 280km/h upon request and each uses a seven-speed S ironic transmission to harness the power which is put to the road through quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

In the true spirit of the RennSport models, performance and handling are paramount, with unparalleled grip and razor-sharp handling to match the incredible power output. Lightweight construction has been used to maximise strength and stiffness for safety and for outstanding chassis characteristics in both vehicles. Additional reinforcement for the Roadster version has added little in terms of weight and the torsional rigidity is on a par with the Coupé.

Driving modes can be selected via the Audi drive select system, with specially programmed settings for comfort, auto and dynamic available at the driver’s finger tips, while an individual mode allows customised settings to be dialled in to the system for even greater control.

Both of the new TT RS models ride on 19-inch wheels which not only marry beautifully with their distinctive RS styling, but allow a significant ‘footprint’ between the car and the road surface. Even larger 20-inch wheels are also available.

Large ventilated and perforated discs perform the stopping duties up front, while a steel mono block disc is used on the rear to provide the braking performance required in cars of this type. Or for those with an even greater performance bent, a carbon-fibre ceramic brake system is also available as an option.

Inside, the driver and passenger are ensconced in a cockpit that builds on the classic TT interior. The driver is able to monitor all important vehicle information via the Audi virtual cockpit with 12.3-inch screen which standard equipment in both vehicles. The driver can choose from three views, including a special RS screen that highlights the rev counter and provides information on tyre pressure, torque, and g‑force, among other things. 

A shift light also alerts the driver as they hit the optimum shift point should they be using the shift paddles on the multi-function wheel. This flat-bottom, leather steering wheel is like that from a race car, and features two operating satellite buttons for turning the engine on and off as well as controls for the aforementioned Audi drive select, and buttons for other important functions. The driver can even influence the sonorous exhaust note of the TT RS cars with just the flick of a switch.

Obviously both the TT RS Coupé and Roadster offer the best best in top-end infotainment technology with options such as MMI navigation plus with MMI touch including free text search and natural voice control, and the Audi connect online module with Wi-Fi hotspot. Using Audi phone box, compatible mobile phones can be charged inductively and paired with the onboard antennae for optimal reception. The new Audi smartphone interface technology displays selected apps from the cell phone directly in the Audi virtual cockpit, while the Bang & Olufsen sound system is the very pinnacle of automotive sound. 

Visually, the RS styling works brilliantly on the iconic styling of the TT models. The distinctive Singleframe grille dominates the aggressive front end with its new honeycomb finish and subtle quattro badging. Large air inlets add to the imposing front styling as well as serving an important function of increased airflow, while a fixed rear deck spoiler is used on both the Coupé and the Roadster – again adding to the dynamic styling as well as providing downforce at speed.

The TT RS models are offered with LED rear lights and LED headlights as standard or customers can order the latter as intelligently controlled Matrix LED units. These new models also mark the first time Audi has offered Matrix OLED (organic light emitting diode) technology in series production, with each rear light containing four wafer-thin units which become smaller from the inside out. This exciting new lighting technology represents the very latest from the brand that is pioneering automotive lighting systems and is the most advanced system of its type.

As you would expect from Audi Sport, these models represent the very top of their model range and continue the brand’s program of offering an S or RS model in each model category. Audi’s high performance models have proved extremely successful Down Under, with Australia in the top five international Audi markets for performance models. Customers salivating at the prospect of getting behind the wheel of either of the new TT RS models will have to wait a little while though, as the TT RS Coupe and Roadster will not be launched in Australia until the middle of next year. Full Australian specification and pricing will be announced ahead of the Australian launch, but it is safe to say that the wait will be well worth it.