The 2012 Audi TT RS has officially launched in the U.S. The Audi RS line returns to the States with a 360hp coupe after an 11,500 fan strong Facebook campaign. Racing and Audi enthusiast Don Istook used his connections to receive the first TT RS. Fort Worth Audi out of Texas delivered his car this week and let's just say Istook was a pretty exuberant about his new ride.

"Having raced at almost every major track in the U.S. and Canada, I've pushed the limits in many cars in my 34 years as a race car driver," Istook said. "I like my street car to give me some of that thrill. With my new Audi TT RS, I not only get that thrill, but I also get that 'race car' sound." Istook was one of the first drivers to race an Audi Quattro in the U.S. in 1985 and he drove the S4 models in the formerly-titled Motorola Cup which became the Grand-Am Cup. He has recently raced several Audi TT Quattro coupes. The new 2012 Audi TT RS is Audi's top of the line TT.

It boasts a 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder TFSI engine which pumps out 360hp and 343lb-ft of torque. Aerodynamics and increased rigidity come about through an aluminum and steel hybrid shell with Quattro all-wheel-drive. A six-speed manual transmission, fixed rear wing spoiler, rear diffuser and 19-inch rotor wheel help the Audi run fast wherever it goes. Pricing for the Audi TT RS starts at $56,850. A further $875 is required for destination charge, tax, and dealer charges. Next year will mark the introduction to the U.S. of the Audi RS5 coupe.