From a purely visual standpoint, the TT RS Coupé and Roadster are both charismatic athletes. When standing still, they both appear to be pushing forward. The strong sheet-metal body and the tautly curved surfaces, delimited by sharp lines, give the impression of a sculpture in motion. A series of design highlights impart the TT RS with that air of concentrated power that characterizes a top-of-the-line model.

As always with Audi, the front end is characterized by the single-frame grille, which is encircled by a matt aluminum-look frame. The grille insert, which bears a TT RS badge, features a shiny black rhombus design – a design mirrored by the large side air intakes. Their widely extended edges draw air into the engine compartment – the left intake routes the air across the gearbox; the right intake routes air to an additional water cooler. The turbocharger draws its intake air through the upper section of the single-frame grille, while the intercoolers sit behind the lower segment of the grille.

The front skirt has been redesigned. Its splitter and the rear spoiler work together to provide perfect aerodynamic balance. Audi offers the splitter, the lip of the diffuser insert and the mounting for the rear spoiler in aluminum look as an option.

The headlamp design is an identifying feature of all current Audi models. Xenon plus lamps are standard on the TT RS. They are accentuated by daytime running lights, whose 12 light-emitting diodes form a straight line. Together with the “wings” (dual plastic wings), the LEDs make the headlamps seem like little technical works of art.

The most striking aspects of the Audi TT RS when viewed from the side are the 18-inch wheels with the large brakes and the flared side sills. The outside mirror housings come standard in matt aluminum look, and optionally in the body color or carbon. Those looking for something special can choose the black styling package, in which the frame of the single-frame grille is also black.

The rear bumper includes an integrated diffuser insert that surrounds the two large, oval tailpipes. A TT RS logo also adorns the rear of the car. The TT RS comes standard with a wide, stationary spoiler that increases the downforce on the rear axle and thus improves stability at high speeds. The spoiler of the high-volume model, which automatically extends at 120 km/h (75 mph) and retracts again at 80 km/h (50 mph).

Regardless of which rear spoiler is chosen, the TT RS has a drag coefficient of approx. 0.32 (Roadster: 0.34). The front face measures 2.09 square meters (22.5 sq ft) in all versions – a low value that contributes to the high dynamism in the upper speed range. The Coupé and Roadster are 4,198 millimeters (13.77 ft) long and 1,842 millimeters (6.04 ft) wide. The closed TT RS is 1,342 millimeters (4.4 ft) high; the open version 1,348 millimeters (4.42 ft).

A classic lightweight: The Roadster’s cloth top
An open-topped Audi always has a classic cloth top. Why? Because it is lighter than a folding steel roof, lowers the center of gravity, takes up less room in the trunk and flows harmoniously into the design line. The cloth top of the performance driving machine TT RS Roadster is powered as standard by an electrohydraulic drive.

The top, which includes a large glass rear window, opens and closes in twelve seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph). When opened, it folds into a Z-shape with its frontmost element forming a fixed cover, eliminating the need for a cover flap or tonneau cover. A mat between the headlining and the outer skin provides good acoustic and thermal insulation. The wind deflector is also very convenient – it opens and closes automatically at the push of a button.

The cloth top is available in two sporty colors – dark grey or black. There are eight paint colors available for the body. Four of them are familiar from the TT family – Ibis White; Misano Red, pearl effect; Monza Silver, metallic; and Phantom Black, pearl effect. The following colors are offered exclusively for the TT RS: Daytona Gray, pearl effect; Mugello Blue, pearl effect; Sepang Blue, pearl effect; and Suzuka Gray, metallic.

The equipment, specifications and prices stated herein refer to the model line offered for sale in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.