Geneva 2009: Audi presents the high performance TT RS Coupe & Cabriolet

As expected, the Audi TT RS Coupe and Cabriolet was launched in Geneva, and also as expected, both high performance versions of the beautiful Audi TT feature the 2.5 litre TFSI turbocharged 5-cylinder power plant with direct injection that is capable of 340HP and 450Nm of torque. Both all wheel drive models also offer excellent power to weight ratios thanks to the implementation of Audi’s Space Frame design. The Coupe weighs 1,450 kilograms which means it offers 4.3 kilograms per HP while the Cabriolet weighs 1,510 kilograms which translates into 4.4 kilograms per HP.

Thanks to those figures, plus the fact that the engine only weighs 183 kilograms, the Coupe hits the 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds while the Cabriolet does it in 4.7 seconds, and top speed figures for both models are rated at 250 km/h, although Audi revealed that buyers have the option to increase the top speed to 280 km/h. Both models also offer reasonable fuel consumption figures; 9.2 litres per 100 kilometers for the Coupe and 9.5 litres 100 kilometers for the Cabriolet. The power plant is coupled with a revised 6 speed manual transmission.

With 18-inch 5-spoke wheels, the exterior is treated to a number of face lifts that make the new TT worthy of the RS badge including large and squared air inlets with diamond-shaped inserts, a spoiler that tapers downward into a splitter, high-gloss black single frame grille with a frame in matt aluminum look and Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights up front. With vigorous side sills and exterior-mirror casings in matt aluminum look on the side profile, the rear is finished with two large oval exhaust tailpipes which are encircled by a diffuser insert and a fixed rear wing, instead of fold able type with the more modest TT.

In the black interior, you will find your self surrounded by a leather multifunction sports steering wheel, Alcantara/leather combination with silver contrasting stitching and embossed TT RS logos in the front backrests, more badges and logos on the steering wheel, in the rev counter, and on the door sill trims, brushed aluminium inlays, floor mats with silver piping trim, as well as footrests and pedals in aluminum look.

Other features on the inside include a driver information system that displays boost pressure and oil temperature as well as lap timing, heated seats, an automatic climate-control system, a concert sound system and an electrohydraulic soft top and an electric wind deflector for the Cabriolet.

Other fitments that are standard with TT RS include an electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch (If a situation calls for it, the clutch redirects a majority of the torque input from the front wheels to the rear wheels), tightly tuned springs and shock absorbers as well as high performance brakes (370 millimeters ventilated discs with a four piston brake caliper up front and 310 millimeters ventilated discs with a four-piston brake caliper at the back).

Potential buyers can also opt for Audi’s magnetic ride adaptive damping system that allows the driver to select one of two modes including Dynamic and Comfort for the shock absorbers by simply pushing the Sport button. The Sport button can also activate a flap installed in the left exhaust tailpipe that produces exhaust noise that is even more robust and intense while boosting engine responsiveness. An optional sport exhaust system is available with matt black tailpipe trims and sound flap. The same Sport mode button is also used to fully or partially deactivate the Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP).

Available in eight body colour options including colours with pearl effects such as Mugello Blue, Sepang Blue, and Suzuka Gray, potential owners can expect deliveries by summer. Continue reading to view an image gallery and a video of both bodytypes.

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