Audi revs up the excitement with the TT RS

The Audi TT RS Roadster and Coupé are shown in this handout image. (Audi)

Audi on Monday took the wraps off the most powerful series production TT in history, the RS.

Available in soft-top roadster or in hardtop coupé form, both versions of the new RS edition boast the same 2.5-litre five-cylinder, turbocharged powerplant.

The new aluminum block engine has just been developed by Audi and delivers a remarkable 395bhp while weighing 10 kilograms less than the company's existing five-cylinder unit.

When dropped into the RS and power sent to all four wheels via its seven-speed dual clutch transmission, the result is a 0-100 km/h time of 3.7 seconds in the coupé and 3.9 seconds for the heavier convertible.

Both can hit an electronically restricted top speed of 250 km/h. However, with the restrictor off that speed climbs to 280 km/h.

"The newly developed turbo five-cylinder engine, with which we are continuing our great tradition from the 1980s, conveys pure emotion," said Dr. Stefan Knirsch, Audi Board Member for Technical Development. "The TT RS now provides 400PS and combines driving pleasure with efficiency through innovative technologies."

In terms of differences that can be seen without opening the hood, the RS has a heavier, meaner stance thanks to bigger front air intakes, a honeycomb grille pattern and wider side sills. It also comes with a fixed rear wing as standard.

However, for those that prefer the stealth look it can be deleted in favor of the traditional automatically extending spoiler. But even with that spoiler tucked inside the car, its huge multi-fin rear diffuser, plus the OLED rear light cluster (a first for Audi) will give the car away as being something a bit more potent than a stock TT.

Both cars are available in a choice of nine colors and with the option of 20-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels.

The TT RS makes its debut on the same day as the latest-generation Porsche Cayman, meaning that potential customers have a hard decision. The RS's performance figures trump those of the Cayman in terms of everything from acceleration (the Cayman S needs 4.2 seconds to hit 100 km/h) to output (350 hp v 395 hp). They only agree on top speed. And although Audi is yet to confirm pricing, the TT is expected to cost roughly the same as the new Porsche too -- around €65,000.