It looks as though the top brass at Audi will soon give their nod of approval to the TT RS, the soon to be top-of-the-range TT, aimed at the likes of the Cayman S, M3 and 350Z.
By Kyle Kock
Although this new model is likely to adopt a number of styling cues from the TT Clubsport concept that emerged earlier this year, the TT RS won’t be identical.
A 2,5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine powers this version of the TT (the same engine currently found in the US version of the Jetta). It has been given some much- needed high-pressure turbocharging, boosting peak power from an adequate 110 kW to a more-competitive 260 kW. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, while the 0-100 km/h sprint is rumoured to be in the region of five seconds.
Word has it that an insider who has heard the TT RS said the new coupe makes “a fantastic noise, just like the original Quattro”.
Power may not be on par with say, the 309 kW BMW M3, but where the TT RS lacks in raw power, it should make up with a lighter kerb weight (take into account that the standard 3,2-litre V6 model weighs some 200 kg less than the M3) and Quattro all-wheel drive. Take into account the potential for a very high power-to-weight ratio and the loads of torque associated with turbocharging, and the TT RS could have the makings of a potential M3 slayer. Its likely that this car will only be offered in coupe form, due to the necessity of a roof to deal with the forces generated during cornering, acceleration and braking.
According to another company insider, the RS is still awaiting the thumbs-up from the Audi bosses. If production is confirmed, the speculative launch date should be in 2009 sometime.
Another TT, the S, will be launched next year, equipped with the S3’s 195 kW four-cylinder engine. This will be the hottest TT available until the RS (hopefully) breaks cover.
