The European version that we sampled almost two years ago made 340 hp from its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine. Much to our surprise and thrill, Audi says it’s pushing for U.S. cars to make about 20 more ponies for a total of around 360 hp. We asked where the extra power is coming from and were told it’s mainly from ECU tuning, so presumably the Euro cars could be updated as well. Our RS will also come equipped only with a six-speed manual transmission, and little else is changed from the overseas edition. We won’t, however, be getting the available Recaro seats. No big surprise there.
Only a few options will be offered on the limited run of less than 1000 cars. As of now, an exterior package featuring silver accents on the lower front and rear valance (matching the mirror caps) is planned, as is a Titanium pack bundling a blacked-out grille and trim with titanium-colored wheels, much like what is currently available on the A4, A5, S4, and S5. A sport exhaust option will provide a rowdier note from that already sweet sounding five. Those not in favor of the RS’s rear spoiler can opt for a factory delete.
The TT RS coupe will arrive by the end of this summer as a 2012 model. Like many of these details, pricing is yet to be finalized, but expect to pay a base price “in the low-$60K range,” that is if you can get your hands on one.