The Audi TT has always been known for its supremely distinctive styling and high-quality interior. Yet with an emphasis on comfort and character, this little Audi initially lacked the athleticism to match its sharp appearance. Over the intervening years, Audi has upgraded power and handling, culminating in a sportier TTS in 2009 and finally the performance-focused TT RS for 2012.
Based on the second-generation TT, the Audi TT RS featured a much more powerful engine as well as supporting upgrades to the suspension and brakes. Audi sold just 1,000 units of the TT RS in the United States between 2012 and 2013. We're sure that those driving enthusiasts lucky enough to have acquired one appreciated those significant increases in power and handling.
Used Audi TT RS Models
Produced for just two model years, 2012 and 2013, the Audi TT RS packs a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine that produces 360 horsepower and 343 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual was the only transmission available, and routes power to all four wheels. By contrast, the standard Audi TT of the time only made 211 hp. Besides the power upgrade, the TT RS also benefited from a lower ride height, stronger brakes, a rear spoiler, adaptive suspension dampers and high-performance tires to keep it on the road.
As you'd expect from an Audi on the inside, the TT RS features top-notch materials, albeit with a sportier twist than what you'd see in a standard TT. Unlike other TT variants, however, the Audi TT RS was only available as a 2+2 coupe. Standard feature highlights included xenon headlights, automatic climate control, leather upholstery and a lap timer on top of the usual sport luxury trappings. Notable options included a navigation system, a premium Bose sound system, adaptive headlights, a sport exhaust and leather/simulated suede upholstery.
Out on the open road, the Audi TT RS provides plenty of power and grip to keep aspiring racers satisfied. Up to its high handling limits, the little coupe tracks through turns with surgical precision. Past those limits, though, there is a tendency for the car to understeer. As a more performance-oriented TT, the RS does make sacrifices in regard to comfort. The deep growl of the engine can be tiresome after time and the stiff ride compromises ride quality over bumpy pavement. But these are small prices to pay for a car that could go toe-to-toe with the day's best sport coupes from BMW, Lotus and Porsche.
Read the most recent 2018 Audi TT RS review.
If you are looking for older years, visit our used Audi TT RS page.
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