Audi TT RS unveiled in Beijing

This week’s Beijing Motor Show saw a host of new machines being unveiled, lone of which is the latest coupe and roadster version of the Audi TT RS.

These cars feature a new aluminium five-cylinder engine which delivers 400 bhp - 60 more than its predecessor - and Audi says it has further developed the five-cylinder engine in all areas, with lightweight construction measures, reduced internal friction and increased power delivery.

As a result, the turbo engine gains a good 17 percent increase in performance at an unchanged capacity of 2,480 cc. Maximum torque of 480 Nm is available between 1,700 and 5,850 rpm.

And Audi says not only has it fantastic pulling power, but an unmistakable sound as well. Cylinders positioned directly beside each other and far away from each other fire in alternation. This brings with it a very special aural rhythm.

The TT RS Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 3.7 seconds, the Roadster in 3.9 seconds, which is pretty much at supercar levels. Top speed is regulated to 250 kph, or at 280 kph upon request.

According to the manufacturer the forces of the 2.5 TFSI engine flow via a seven-speed S tronic, which shifts at lightning speed, to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Its multi-plate clutch distributes the power freely between the axles.

The wheel-selective torque control makes handling even more agile and safe. Using the Audi drive select system, the driver can influence the quattro drive and other components such as the steering, S tronic, engine characteristic and exhaust flaps. The four modes available for this are comfort, auto, dynamic, and individual.

In addition to its light weight, the Audi TT RS has its sporty chassis to thank for its outstanding handling. The direct steering provides close contact with the road and makes it a pleasure to drive challenging winding stretches. At the front axle, ventilated and perforated steel discs are in action behind the 19-inch wheels – or 20-inch forged lightweight wheels as an option.

Controls and display in the new TT RS are focused completely on the driver. All information is displayed as standard on the fully digital Audi virtual cockpit with 12.3-inch screen. The driver can choose from three views, including a special RS screen that highlights the rev counter and provides information on tire pressure, torque, and gforce, among other things.

The new TT RS models will be launched on the European market in autumn 2016. Pricing for the Irish market will be announced closer to the launch date.