Beijing 2016: Audi Unveils 400bhp TT RS

It’s the TT RS, unveiled today as a coupe at the Beijing Motor Show and, in convertible form, simultaneously at the Audi City London showroom.

The second-gen TT RS, like its predecessor, uses a 2.5-litre turbo five-cylinder engine for echoes of the 1980s Quattro. It delivers 400bhp (the last RS had 335) with a mighty 354 lb ft of torque from just 1,700rpm. It is all transmitted to the four 19-inch (20s optional) wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch S-Tronic transmission and latest quattro all-wheel-drive system.

With all the other running gear upgraded to cope, the result, says Audi, is supercar-level performance, with 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds (convertible 3.9 seconds) and, on request, a derestricted top speed of 174mph.

There are some styling tweaks but nothing outrageous (though an extending rear wing is an option) and overall its comely curves will blend in well on our TT-packed roads – half of all TTs ordered in Europe find a home in the UK.

Definitely fast then, undoubtedly all-seasons secure, fitted with all the really clever stuff that Audi is brilliant at – virtual cockpit, matrix LED lights et al – and with enough subtlety to slip by unnoticed, the new TT RS is available to order now (prices to be announced) with first UK deliveries by the end of the year.