Audi wasn't messing around here. It went all-out with the new 2017 TT RS coupe and roadster and we should all be happy because they come with 400 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Just to compare, the TTS has 292 hp. Making its official debut at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show, the 2017 Audi TT RS coupe and roadster have 60 hp more than the previous model. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder, which is essentially an updated version of the same engine from the previous TT RS.
That 354 lb-ft of torque is available between 1,700 and 5,850 rpm, and is sent to all four wheels via the also familiar Quattro all-wheel drive system and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Zero to 62 mph happens in only 3.7 seconds for the coupe while the roadster does it in 3.9. Not at all unusual, both have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Upon customer request, however, Audi will bump that up to 174 mph. Compared to the base TT, the TT RS sits 10 mm lower to the ground and features a fixed rear wing, a unique front fascia with large air intakes, and special 19- and 20-inch wheels. The coupe tips the scales at 3,174 lbs. – 22 lbs. less than the last TT RS.
The roadster weighs in at 3,373 lbs. Even the redesigned TFSI five-cylinder has lost 57 lbs. The roadster's soft top retracts in just 10 seconds and can operate at speeds up to 31 mph. Step inside and you'll find an interior only Audi can build. It's beautiful, especially the RS-only tones of Nardo Grey and Catalunya Red. Buyers actually have a choice of nine interior colors in all. In addition, there are numerous customized paint finishes through the Audi exclusive program. There's also optional matte aluminum and gloss black styling packages. The RS sport seats are perhaps the most obvious interior upgrade compared to the also excellent TT interior.
The 2017 Audi TT RS coupe and roadster will go on sale in Europe this fall, starting at 66,400 Euros and 69,200 Euros, respectively. But have no fear: its US arrival (as well as other global markets) will come at a later date.
