Audi has given its iconic sports car more power to make it even more competitive.
The 2017 Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster have debuted at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show with an upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine that now outputs 60 more horsepower than before for a total of 400 hp and 354 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed S-tronic transmission. Sadly, there was no mention of a manual transmission. Previous reports said that the manual will not be offered any longer, but TT RS models were spied earlier with a row-your-own gearbox. [: A representative from Audi’s HQ in Germany confirmed to us that a manual transmission will NOT be available.]
Audi says the TT RS Coupe to sprint from rest to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds, while the Roadster take slightly longer at 3.9 seconds, making them the quickest TTs to date. Top speed is limited to 155 mph or 173.9 mph upon request.
2016 Bejing Auto Show Coverage
Visually, the TT RS duo gets new OLED lights with a 3D design in the rear, which is the first time they are being used in a production Audi. Of course, the TT RS gets huge oval exhaust pipes, and more aggressive design cues are used throughout.
Inside, the 12.3-inch digital dashboard is still center stage, but a special RS display shows performance information like tire pressure, torque and g-forces. The RS also gets optional wireless cellphone charging and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
ALSO SEE: 2016 Audi TT Review – Curbed with Craig Cole
The Roadster’s soft top can be opened or closed at speeds of up to 31 mph.
The 2017 Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster will launch in the fall of this year. North American pricing has not yet been announced.
