Geneva 2009: Audi Teases TT-RS

It's been a long time coming, but Audi is finally releasing an RS variant of their popular TT coupe. Imaginatively named the TT-RS (what else where they gonna call it? TRTS?), this latest performance offering from Audi will be faster, harder, lighter, and more powerful than the already well-bestowed TT-S coupe.

In a return to tradition, the TT RS will reportedly be powered by a direct-injection, 2.5L turbocharged inline-five cylinder engine.  This engine, based on the port-injected naturally aspirated engine in the US-market Rabbits and Jettas (like mine, presumably) will produce well north of 300 horsepower, a whole plateful of torque, and some lovely sounds.  If you haven't heard what an uncorked VW 2.5L I5 sounds like...

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeplW7wdIt0

now just imagine that, but with more turbo overlayed on top.  This car is going to decimate.  And it's not just because I'm a 5-cylinder lover.

The two teaser images are of the ever-popular "macro shot" variety - showing small details in high resolution.  Thanks, Audi.  The front shot shows deeper, wider air intakes as well as Audi's trademark LED running lights, with some tasty black mesh to round things out.  Also, you can barely see what looks like a six-spoke variant of the RS4 wheel, a design I'm quite fond of.  I see quite a bit of resemblance to the R8 supercar in the front, as well as what look like massive ventilated multi-piston brakes in the front - serious stopping hardware for a serious performance car.

around back, the teasers show a bespoke lower valence with chunky oval tailpipes integrated into the design, and a larger fixed spoiler.

Full details on the TT-RS will become available during the Geneva show in March, so stay tuned for more information on this latest German hot rod!