The new model is, as its name suggests, based on the already rapid TT RS. Both the standard TT RS and the TT RS Plus will be assembled in small numbers at Audi's Gyor factory in Hungary beginning in April, prior to the start of European deliveries.
Among the TT RS Plus's mechanical improvements is a revised version of Audi's turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine. With tweaks to its intake manifold and increased turbocharger boost pressure, the unit produces 20 additional horsepower for a total of 355. Torque has also increased by 11 pound-feet, swelling to a peak of 343 lb-ft. Along with the power and torque-enhancing measures, Audi has also provided the TT RS Plus with an active exhaust to give the TT RS Plus an even more intense exhaust note.
The engine's boosted reserves are sent through the same multiclutch all-wheel-drive system and standard six-speed manual gearbox as the standard TT RS. Like that car, the TT RS Plus will also be sold in Europe with an optional seven-speed double-clutch S tronic gearbox, complete with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles and an integrated launch control function.
Audi quotes 0-62-mph times of 4.1 seconds for the coupe and 4.2 seconds for the roadster when equipped with the S tronic transmission. When hooked up with the standard manual gearbox, the official acceleration times extend to 4.3 seconds and 4.4 seconds respectively.
With curb weights of 3,197 pounds and 3,334 pounds respectively, Audi's new performance pairing also attain a top speed limited to 174 mph — some 19 mph above that of the TT RS.
Setting the TT RS Plus apart from the standard TT RS are a new diamond-shaped grille insert, carbon-fiber exterior mirror housings, black-trimmed tailpipes and a more prominent fixed rear spoiler. There's also a set of black-and-red-painted 19-inch wheels that come wrapped with 255/35R19 tires.
In Germany, the TT RS Plus coupe retails for €60,650, with the TT RS Plus roadster pitched at €63,500.
Details pertaining to a possible North American introduction remain under wraps, although Audi officials have told Inside Line that the new model conforms to all current U.S. safety and emissions regulations.
Inside Line says: Yet another Audi hot rod that we would love to see make it to the U.S. Given Audi's track record, however, don't get your hopes up.
Description: 355-HP Audi TT RS Plus Debuts
Rating: 3.5
Reviewer: Eman
ItemReviewed: 355-HP Audi TT RS Plus Debuts
