he scorching Audi TT RS plus has arrived in Australia

ZETLAND, AUSTRALIA – Feb 15, 2013: Even more powerful, even faster, even more dynamic: the scorching Audi TT RS plus has arrived in Australia, with an MLP of $139,900. This compact sports coupe stands out for its awe-inspiring performance. Its five-cylinder turbo delivers 265 kW, sufficient for a top speed of 280 km/h.

The 2.5-litre TFSI in the Audi TT RS plus is a high-performance engine, with a history of success. Compared with the engine on which it is based, this turbocharged direct-injection unit delivers 15 kW more power and produces 465 Nm of torque, 15 Nm more than before.

The seven-speed S tronic delivers lightning-fast gearshifts. This dual-clutch transmission comes with a launch control function which optimises acceleration from a standing start. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, which operates with a multi-plate clutch, transfers engine power to the road with supreme confidence.

Against the backdrop of the five-cylinder engine’s characteristic roaring and growling, the TT RS plus sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in a blistering 4.1 seconds, and is limited to a top speed of 280 km/h. Despite these impressive figures, fuel consumption is exceptionally frugal at just 8.5 litres per 100 km.

Alongside numerous efficiency-improving measures, these top figures are due primarily to the extremely lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) body, hewn from aluminium at the front and sheet steel at the rear. The TT RS plus, including quattro drive, weighs just 1,475 kilograms, giving a power-to-weight ratio of 5.6 kilograms per kilowatt.

The high-performance brake system is able to cope with the engine’s power at all times. Four-piston fixed calipers in conjunction with perforated brake discs are installed on the front axle. The Audi TT RS plus is fitted with 19-inch cast wheels of five-arm “Rotor” design which are painted black with contrasting red rim flanges. The wheels are fitted with 255/35 tyres.

The adaptive damping system known as Audi magnetic ride is fitted as standard equipment. A large, fixed rear wing increases downforce at the back of the car.

The singleframe radiator grille also sets the Audi TT RS plus apart visually. Its diamond-pattern mesh is in highly polished anthracite and is trimmed with a matt aluminium-look frame. The housings of the exterior mirrors are made of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP), while the dual-branch sport exhaust system has black oval tailpipe trims. A sound flap further intensifies the sound of the engine.

The Carbon design package gives the engine compartment a more exclusive look that befits this range-topper, along with a gear lever that is emblazoned with TT RS plus badge, leaving absolutely no doubt as to the race-bred heritage of this mighty sports icon.