Audi reveals Porsche Boxster challenger in TT RS plus

First impression

Audi is back with its latest, wickedly powerful Audi TT RS plus to take on the second generation Porsche Cayman and Porsche Boxster. The red hot thunder will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor show next month but the pictures and specifications are out creating buzz all over. The Audi TT RS plus means more power than its predecessor TT RS, along with new improved suspension, brakes and exteriors. The Audi's Quattro team has rammed up the second generation TT, adding more power, style and comfort to its make. The exterior tweaks have added more aerodynamics and appeal, clearly distinguishable from the earlier TT RS. The performance attributes are all set to challenge its competitors with more horsepower and torque, enhanced turbocharger boost pressure, and a new active exhaust.

Audi TT RS plus

The powertrain

The Audi TT RS plus boasts on its new improved 2.5 liter five-cylinder turbocharged direct-injection engine, adding on to the overall performance of the vehicle. The new go-fast elements and mechanical tweaks have increased the horsepower and torque from 335 and 450Nm to 355 and 465Nm respectively. The improved power figures result in a faster performance with the vehicle achieving 0-100Km/h in just 4.1 seconds for the coupe model, and 4.2 for the roadster, with the optional seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic gearbox – a little more than a second faster compared to the TT RS. With the curb weights of 3,197 pounds and 3,334 pounds respectively, both the coupe and roadster versions of the Audi TT RS plus are marked with a top speed of 174mph – 19 mph more than the standard TT RS.

The exterior and interior

The perceptible exterior changes include a diamond shaped radiator grille made from polished anthracite bordered with an aluminum matte finish plastic frame, black oval shaped sizable tailpipes, and redesigned CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) exterior mirrors. An active exhaust with an additional sound flap is also included to provide a more intensive exhaust sound. On the inside, the gear lever is trimmed and added with a TT RS plus badge. The 19-inch wheel trims of the vehicle are also altered, adding a hint of red accent to the black paint.

What's new?

The performance of the new Audi TT RS plus makes it faster than the competitive Porsche Boxster, Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG and the BMW Z4, without compromising on the consumption parameter. The mileage of the RS Plus is recorded as 27.7 US mpg for the coupe version and 27.4 US mpg for the roadster. The front wheels are mounted with a unique carbon-fiber engine bay. The Audi TT RS plus comes with a six-speed manual transmission, and an all-four wheel drive. Another addition for the buyers is an optional damping system to vary the firmness of the Audi's Drive select system.

What's refreshing?

Setting it apart from its predecessor is the revised version of the 2.5 liter engine with increased turbocharged boost pressure, a more prominent rear spoiler, and black-red wheel trims wrapped with 255/35R19 tires. The already firm-riding McPherson front and rear chassis have also been upgraded for a greater stability at high speeds.

Picture Gallery

Audi TT RS plus

355-HP Audi TT RS Plus Debuts

Price and availability

Ahead of its European distribution, both coupe and roadster trims of the new Audi will be assembled in the Audi's Gyor factory in Hungary in small numbers. The public display is awaited in early march at the Geneva Motor Show. Although, the final date of its arrival in the market is yet to be declared. The German price for the Audi TT RS plus coupe will range from €60,650 - €62,800 whereas the slightly expensive roadster will cost somewhere €63,500 and €65,650. The distribution in North America is still under question, although the officials confirm that the new Audi adheres to all U.S regulations (safety and emissions).

Wrap-up

The new red fiery Audi TT RS plus looks more aggressive and stylish with improved front grille, black-red wheel trims, and a stylish redesigned fixed wing adding to its downforce at high speeds. The RS plus is expected to be more stable with the upgraded front and rear suspension, giving it an edge over its competitors. The official Ingolstadt performance figures are also very impressive (especially the 174mph top speed). The new Audi will definitely be among the buyers choice this year, although its suitability to roads and consistency in performance can only be accessed after a test drive.