Nearly 300kW from explosive Audi TT RS

Having recently driven Porsche’s Boxster 718, we know the competition is in for a tough time but new details on Audi’s latest TT RS have emerged and they seem to carry the necessary firepower for a competitive battle.

Always considered a bargain R8, the 2017 Audi TT RS once again reinforces that notion with bona fide super car credentials. The 0-100km/h time of 3.8 seconds is just shy of its bigger brother and a top speed of 280km/h is probably quite conservative given that the less aerodynamic RS3 manages the same.

Audi’s 5-cylinder of 2.5-litre swept capacity gets the nod once more but for greater explosiveness features a new direct injection system and a revised variable cam setup. Equate it to numbers and power has been raised from 250kW to 294kW and there could be room to spare if a Plus Version is approved.

New Audi TT RS will deliver Quattro power through a set of lighter forged rims linked to a lower ride height. For increased comfort and control the level of firmness can be adjusted through the optional (it really should be standard) magnetic control damping.

The same electronic differential is carried over for the new car and the braking system consists of 370mm discs, but chances are the salesperson has already sold you the benefits of the carbon ceramic version. Rightly so.

Externally Audi keeps the RS addenda simple with a new Matrix LED system flanking the grille while the oval exhaust pipes (same as the previous version) are wrapped up in a macho rear diffuser. A small wing that belies the car’s capability is part of the package.

It remains to be seen whether Audi South Africa bring in the roadster version because the current Audi TT range is restricted to coupe bodystyle.